MyLuthier Blog

The place for all things Strings
We help you discover the world of violin making: Maker Features, Helpful Tips and opinion Pieces from musicians and Luthiers!

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London Cello Institute: The Benefits of Adult Cello Lessons

London Cello Institute: The Benefits of Adult Cello Lessons

Partner Post
Experience the joy of playing at the London Cello Institute with adult cello lessons! Unleash your creativity and join a lively community of music lovers!
September 18, 2024
Play It Smart: A Tax Guide for UK String Players

Play It Smart: A Tax Guide for UK String Players

Discover how to turn your next instrument purchase into a savvy financial move. This guide unravels the complexities of UK tax laws, revealing how you can reduce the cost of acquiring high-quality instruments through smart tax strategies.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
September 8, 2024
Understanding Wolf Tones in Stringed Instruments: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Wolf Tones in Stringed Instruments: A Comprehensive Guide

Articles & Tips
For string players and music enthusiasts alike, the phenomenon of wolf tones presents an intriguing intersection of physics, craftsmanship, and musical performance. This guide aims to demystify wolf tones, exploring their nature, causes, and the various strategies employed to manage them.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
September 8, 2024
The Modern Renaissance of W. E. Hill & Sons

The Modern Renaissance of W. E. Hill & Sons

Articles & News
Discover the rich history and modern innovation of W. E. Hill & Sons, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship in violins and bows.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 20, 2024
5 Common Pitfalls When Purchasing High-End Violin Bows

5 Common Pitfalls When Purchasing High-End Violin Bows

Articles & Tips
Discover the common pitfalls of buying high-end violin bows, including condition and authenticity concerns.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 16, 2024
Our Favourite British Violin Makers in 2024

Our Favourite British Violin Makers in 2024

Articles & Tips
Explore our favourite British violin makers in 2024 at MyLuthier. Based in London, our collection features exceptional instruments from top UK luthiers.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 16, 2024
Our 5 Top-Rated Professional Violins

Our 5 Top-Rated Professional Violins

Articles & Tips
Discover the best professional violins for musicians in 2024. As antique violin prices rise, new instruments from established luthiers are becoming the norm!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 16, 2024
Auction vs Private Sale: An Insight into Pricing Variances of Fine Instruments

Auction vs Private Sale: An Insight into Pricing Variances of Fine Instruments

Market & Opinion
In the nuanced world of fine instrument acquisition and sales, the debate between choosing auctions or private dealers remains a topic of significant consideration.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
March 1, 2024
How to Choose Your First Quality Violin: A Guide for Students and Parents

How to Choose Your First Quality Violin: A Guide for Students and Parents

Articles & Tips
When embarking on the journey of musical development, one of the most pivotal decisions for a student or parent is the selection of the right violin.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
January 19, 2024
Choosing the Perfect High-End Strings for Your Violin: A Professional Guide

Choosing the Perfect High-End Strings for Your Violin: A Professional Guide

Choosing the right strings for your violin is a nuanced and personal journey. By focusing on the sound, complementing your violin's natural tone, and being open to experimentation, you can find the ideal strings that resonate with your artistic expression.‍
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
November 24, 2023
Diverse Buyers and Their Unique Pursuits in the World of Fine Instruments

Diverse Buyers and Their Unique Pursuits in the World of Fine Instruments

Articles & Tips
Discover how diverse buyers, from expert investors to players & hobbyists, actively seek unique values in fine stringed instruments.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
November 13, 2023
Striking a Chord: The Women Behind Modern Violin Making

Striking a Chord: The Women Behind Modern Violin Making

Women In Luthierie
The world of luthierie, or the art of making stringed instruments, has traditionally been dominated by men. However, the winds of change are blowing, and women are now making their mark in this intricate craft.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
September 20, 2023
4 Promising French Violin Makers And Their Instruments

4 Promising French Violin Makers And Their Instruments

Makers & Instruments
Today, we turn our attention to a quartet of young French violin makers, whose inspiring work is continuing the age-old tradition of luthiery in this country.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 30, 2023
The Everlasting Influence of Stradivarius on the World of Instrument Making

The Everlasting Influence of Stradivarius on the World of Instrument Making

Articles & Instruments
Stradivarius' unparalleled craftsmanship and unique sound continue to inspire contemporary luthiers, making his methods and models timeless in the field of instrument making.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 30, 2023
5 incredible examples of antiqued contemporary violins

5 incredible examples of antiqued contemporary violins

Instrument Features
Explore the elusive art of antiquing violins, a skillful blend of old-world charm & modern craftsmanship, showcased in contemporary masterpieces.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 30, 2023
3 beautiful examples of large cellos with a large sound!

3 beautiful examples of large cellos with a large sound!

Instrument Feautres
Not all cellos are created equal, especially when it comes to size. In this feature, we dive into the world of large cellos, their unique characteristics, and the majestic resonance that makes them stand out!
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
June 30, 2023
The Art of Violin Bow Rehairing

The Art of Violin Bow Rehairing

Articles & Tips
Unearth the complexities of violin bow rehairing, from sourcing horsehair to precise rehairing processes and explore expert services at MyLuthier!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 9, 2023
Is My Old Violin Worth Repairing?

Is My Old Violin Worth Repairing?

Articles & Tips
Understanding violin restoration: Assess your instrument's condition, explore its historical value, calculate restoration costs, and appreciate the potential value increase. Consider personal and practical aspects, and explore the professional services offered by MyLuthier .
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 8, 2023
Understanding Loudness in String Instruments: From Perception to Projection

Understanding Loudness in String Instruments: From Perception to Projection

Loudness in string instruments is shaped by physics, acoustics, and perception. Instruments sounding loud to players often project well in halls.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 28, 2023
Why Your Stradivarius-Labeled Violin is Most Likely Not Genuine

Why Your Stradivarius-Labeled Violin is Most Likely Not Genuine

Most Stradivarius-labeled violins are replicas, not originals. They reflect Stradivari's enduring influence, not his direct craftsmanship.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 18, 2023
MyLuthier Co-founders Honoured as Associates of the Royal Academy of Music

MyLuthier Co-founders Honoured as Associates of the Royal Academy of Music

News & Events
MyLuthier, the renowned platform for fine and contemporary musical instruments, is proud to announce that its co-founders, Ariel Lang and Pedro Silva, have been bestowed the honour of Associates of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM).
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 10, 2023
Behind the Price Tag: Disparites in Fine Violin Pricing

Behind the Price Tag: Disparites in Fine Violin Pricing

In this article, we will examine the disparity between auction prices and private sale values of fine violins.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
May 10, 2023
Asset Allocation in Fine Violins: Diversifying Your Portfolio

Asset Allocation in Fine Violins: Diversifying Your Portfolio

Investing in fine violins is an underappreciated avenue of capital allocation, yet one that has the potential to produce remarkable returns while diversifying an investment portfolio.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
May 10, 2023
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Investing in Fine Violins

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Investing in Fine Violins

When considering alternative investment opportunities, many individuals are intrigued by the allure of fine violins, violas, cellos, and bows. These exquisite instruments can indeed be an exciting and rewarding addition to one's portfolio.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
May 8, 2023
10 World Class Cellists and Their Remarkable Instruments

10 World Class Cellists and Their Remarkable Instruments

Artists & Instruments
The world of classical music has been graced with many exceptional cellists who have shaped the genre with their unique talents and extraordinary instruments. In this blog post, we will explore the stories of the top 10 cellists and the remarkable instruments that have contributed to their fame and success.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
March 20, 2023
Exploring the Craft: Wood Types, Materials, and Construction Methods in Fine String Instruments

Exploring the Craft: Wood Types, Materials, and Construction Methods in Fine String Instruments

Violin-making
The art of crafting these fine string instruments involves the selection of the right materials and the utilisation of intricate construction techniques. In this article, we will delve into the world of string instruments and explore the various types of wood, materials, and construction methods that contribute to their distinct sound and quality.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
March 17, 2023
Master the Art of Choosing Your Perfect Violin, Viola, or Cello: Tips & Tricks!

Master the Art of Choosing Your Perfect Violin, Viola, or Cello: Tips & Tricks!

Articles & Tips
When it comes to trying and comparing different instruments, we have found that there is not a lot of useful and reliable information out there, and often players with little experience are just left to their own devices.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
March 16, 2023
Why You Should Consider a Fine Contemporary Violin: Uncovering the Secrets to a Sound Investment

Why You Should Consider a Fine Contemporary Violin: Uncovering the Secrets to a Sound Investment

We encourage you to embark on your journey to find the perfect contemporary violin, knowing that it will contribute to the preservation and evolution of the craft.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
March 15, 2023
Discover the World's Greatest Violinists and Their Legendary Instruments

Discover the World's Greatest Violinists and Their Legendary Instruments

This article is a comprehensive guide to the world's greatest violinists and their legendary instruments, exploring their unique playing styles and musical legacies.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
March 14, 2023
The Ultimate Guide to Testing Violin Bows: Tips and Tricks

The Ultimate Guide to Testing Violin Bows: Tips and Tricks

Articles & Tips
Choosing the right violin bow is often a much more challenging task than choosing the right instrument. The bow should act as an almost subconscious extension of your arm and it can be close to impossible to put your thoughts and opinions into words.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
February 16, 2023
Tradition & Innovation: The Best Contemporary Violin Makers of 2023

Tradition & Innovation: The Best Contemporary Violin Makers of 2023

Articles & Tips
The art of violin making has been elevated to new heights in contemporary times, as traditional techniques are blended with innovative designs to create some of the finest instruments of our era. As the leading provider of contemporary violins, violas, cellos, and bows, MyLuthier is dedicated to sourcing and offering the best examples of violin making available.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
February 14, 2023
4 Prominent American Violin Makers You Should Know

4 Prominent American Violin Makers You Should Know

Articles & News
We've gathered some of the 4 most exciting and innovative Violin Makers from the USA!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
August 18, 2022
The 5 Most Expensive Violins in the World - Updated 2024

The 5 Most Expensive Violins in the World - Updated 2024

Articles & News
2022 has been a year full of high-profile auction sales. Let's take a look at some of the world's most expensive Violins to satisfy your curiosity!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
August 1, 2022
5 Beautiful Violas from Some of the Best Makers in the World

5 Beautiful Violas from Some of the Best Makers in the World

Instruments
If you are looking for a new viola, you'll want to check out these five incredible contemporary instruments from some of the best makers in the world!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 28, 2022
How to Travel with Your Violin: Tips for Worry-Free International Travel

How to Travel with Your Violin: Tips for Worry-Free International Travel

Articles & Tips
In this blog post, we will share some tips on how to travel with your violin safely and without any stress!
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
June 27, 2022
The Best Baroque Violin Bows for Professional Musicians & Serious Enthusiasts

The Best Baroque Violin Bows for Professional Musicians & Serious Enthusiasts

Bows & Makers
If you are looking for a high-quality baroque violin, viola or cello bow, you have come to the right place. We are proud to offer some of the best baroque bows on the market today.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 27, 2022
Top Cello Makers in 2022

Top Cello Makers in 2022

Makers & Instruments
2022 has been a great year for high-quality cellos! We've carefully selected the top 5 cello makers in the industry, each of whom has demonstrated an outstanding dedication to their craft, innovative work, and consistently high-quality instruments.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
June 26, 2022
Why Choose a Contemporary Instrument 101: Condition

Why Choose a Contemporary Instrument 101: Condition

Articles & Tips
Condition is a Main Factor in Determining Whether an Instrument Will Maintain or Increase its Value. This is One of the Many Reasons to Choose a Contemporary Instrument.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
June 21, 2022
Our Favorite Violin Strings in 2022

Our Favorite Violin Strings in 2022

News & Updates
Find Out Which Violin Strings are Our Favourites and Why One of Them Might be the Best For You!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
June 21, 2022
BSO Leader Amyn Merchant Plays on a Violin by Gonzalo Bayolo

BSO Leader Amyn Merchant Plays on a Violin by Gonzalo Bayolo

News & Updates
We are thrilled to announce that Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Leader Amyn Merchant now plays on a Guarneri model Violin by the Spanish luthier Gonzalo Bayolo.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
June 9, 2022
5 Outstanding Violin Makers You Should Know About

5 Outstanding Violin Makers You Should Know About

Articles & Tips
5 of the Best Violin Makers Working Today. Discover Why Their Instruments Are Highly Sought-After!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
March 1, 2022
2 Beautiful Examples of Expertly Antiqued Cellos

2 Beautiful Examples of Expertly Antiqued Cellos

Articles & Tips
When it comes to the aesthetics of a contemporary instrument, makers usually split into two categories: new-looking instruments that show their true age and the antique look so often preferred by players in reverence to the old masters.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
January 8, 2022
Top Violin Makers in 2022

Top Violin Makers in 2022

Top violin makers, best violins
Our selection of the top violin makers in 2022. Chosen for their outstanding dedication to their craft, innovative work & consistently high-quality instruments.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
December 31, 2021
How to Care for Your Violin: Essential Instrument Maintenance Tips and Techniques

How to Care for Your Violin: Essential Instrument Maintenance Tips and Techniques

Articles & Tips
The violin is an expensive, rather delicate instrument. Therefore, it’s important for beginners to understand basic instrument care tips and techniques that will maintain both its beauty and its sound quality.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
December 28, 2021
7 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Violin at an Auction

7 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Violin at an Auction

Articles & Tips
A violin auction can be a great way to find a good violin at a reasonable price. But, before heading down that path, there are some things you need to know about auctions in general and violin auctions specifically.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
December 28, 2021
How to Get the Right Insurance for Your Musical Instrument: A Checklist

How to Get the Right Insurance for Your Musical Instrument: A Checklist

Follow these simple tips to make sure your insurance policy covers all the situations a professional musician might encounter.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
December 14, 2021
Violin Making in Cremona: History & Present

Violin Making in Cremona: History & Present

From the days of the Old Masters like Andrea Amati and Antonio Stradivari, all the way to the present, a careful balance of tradition and innovation have made Cremona synonymous with fine stringed instruments.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
December 13, 2021
Why are Violins so expensive? A guide for beginners.

Why are Violins so expensive? A guide for beginners.

The sound of the violin is truly unique and can't be replicated by any other musical instrument. But why are violins so expensive? It may seem like a simple question, but the answer can be quite complex.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
December 13, 2021
Buying a Violin as an Investment - 7 Tips to Consider

Buying a Violin as an Investment - 7 Tips to Consider

tips
When investing in a violin, it is important to do your research and be aware of all the elements that can influence the value of an instrument.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
December 11, 2021
4 of our Most Remarkable Violins Between £20,000 and £30,000

4 of our Most Remarkable Violins Between £20,000 and £30,000

tips
Here are some of our favourite high-quality violins at this price range. These are by makers that we have worked with for years and selected by musicians for their playing qualities and distinctive tone.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
June 22, 2021
5 Best iPad Apps for Professional Musicians

5 Best iPad Apps for Professional Musicians

5 iPad Music Apps that are actually useful.
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
June 10, 2021
Our 5 most impressive contemporary violins under £15,000

Our 5 most impressive contemporary violins under £15,000

tips
Here are some of our favourite high-quality violins at this price range. These are by makers that we have worked with for years and selected by musicians for their playing qualities and distinctive tone.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
May 27, 2021
Reflections on Making by Roger Hansell

Reflections on Making by Roger Hansell

Maker Feature
A wonderful reflection on violin making by one of the UK's most sophisticated luthiers. Roger Hansell shares some thoughts on his career as a violin maker and what shaped his work.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
April 30, 2021
“Loud & Harsh” - 7 Myths About Contemporary Violins

“Loud & Harsh” - 7 Myths About Contemporary Violins

Find out 7 common myths associated with contemporary instruments. From misconceptions about sound to worries about their craftsmanship.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
April 18, 2021
5 World Class Soloists Actively Promoting Violin Making

5 World Class Soloists Actively Promoting Violin Making

Articles & Tips
Here are 5 world class soloists that are not only actively promoting contemporary instrument making but also play on new instruments!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
March 19, 2021
5 Italian Violin Makers with a Promising Future

5 Italian Violin Makers with a Promising Future

Articles & Tips
We Have Picked 5 Italian Violin Makers Based on Their Exceptional Work, Warm Personalities & Embrace of New Ways of Doing Things!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
March 15, 2021
3 Exciting British Violin Makers and Their Instruments

3 Exciting British Violin Makers and Their Instruments

British Violin making is going through a golden age. Meet 3 Fantastic Violin Makers both Up-and-coming and established and see what makes their work stand out!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
February 19, 2021
Meet Matthias von Wallbrunn - Maker Feature

Meet Matthias von Wallbrunn - Maker Feature

Maker Feature
Introducing Mattias von Wallbrunn, a talented maker from Berlin, Germany. We are delighted to have one of his cellos at our London Showroom and we think he is definitely a maker to watch!
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
February 11, 2021
How to Choose a Violin: 7 Expert Tips from a Luthier

How to Choose a Violin: 7 Expert Tips from a Luthier

Articles & Tips
‍Buying a Violin Can Be Challenging. We Have Asked Cremonese Luthier Lucas Fabro to Offer Some of His Independent Advice on Choosing the Right Instrument!
Lucas Fabro
Lucas Fabro
February 11, 2021
MyLuthier Maker Feature: Marco Cargnelutti

MyLuthier Maker Feature: Marco Cargnelutti

Maker Feature
For the first of our maker features, we're introducing Marco Cargnelutti, violin maker from Udine, Italy.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
February 10, 2021
Why Is It Important to Get a Violin Setup Right?

Why Is It Important to Get a Violin Setup Right?

Articles & Tips
Discover How a Great Violin Setup can Transform Your Instrument.
MyLuthier
MyLuthier
February 8, 2021
3 Up-And-Coming French Viola Makers

3 Up-And-Coming French Viola Makers

Articles & Tips
3 of the Finest Viola Makers Working Today. Find Out Who They Are What Sets Their Violas Apart!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
January 27, 2021
Choose a Modern Instrument to Kickstart Your Career

Choose a Modern Instrument to Kickstart Your Career

Articles & Tips
Find Out Why Choosing a Modern Instrument will Kickstart your Career. Follow the Example of many Musicians who Choose a Contemporary Violin, Viola & Cello
January 6, 2021
4 Essential Tips on Instrument Financing

4 Essential Tips on Instrument Financing

Articles & Tips
Our Guide with 4 Essential Tips on Instrument Financing. At MyLuthier, We Believe Every Musician Should Be Able to Afford an Amazing Instrument!
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
January 6, 2021
Instrument Funding Resources in the UK in 2021 – 8 Useful Resources

Instrument Funding Resources in the UK in 2021 – 8 Useful Resources

Articles & Tips
Instrument Funding Resources in the UK for Musicians in 2021. Find Information on Grants and Loans and Organisations that provide Funding!
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
January 6, 2021
Buying a Violin in 2021 Should be Easy

Buying a Violin in 2021 Should be Easy

Articles & Tips
Buying a Violin in 2021 Should be Easy. This is Our Guide on How to Buy a Violin for Serious Students & Professionals.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
January 6, 2021
5 Exceptional Violin Makers to Watch

5 Exceptional Violin Makers to Watch

Articles & Tips
5 of the Finest Violin Makers Working Today. Find Out Who They Are What Sets Their Violins Apart!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
January 6, 2021
3 Exceptional Cello Makers to Watch

3 Exceptional Cello Makers to Watch

Articles & Tips
3 of the Finest Cello Makers Working Today. Find Out Who They Are What Sets Their Cellos Apart!
Pedro Silva
Pedro Silva
January 6, 2021
The Legendary Guarneri ‘Del Gesu’: A Favourite Among 21st Century Makers

The Legendary Guarneri ‘Del Gesu’: A Favourite Among 21st Century Makers

Articles & Tips
Guarneri ‘del Gesu’ Violins are some one of the most recognisable models in the violin-making world and for good reason.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
January 4, 2021
3 Outstanding Contemporary Bow Makers - Violin, Viola & Cello

3 Outstanding Contemporary Bow Makers - Violin, Viola & Cello

Articles & Tips
Find Out More About The Best Modern Bow Makers. Emilio Slaviero and Walter Barbiero at MyLuthier in Central London. Try Our Bows Today!
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
January 3, 2021
How Much Should I Spend on a Violin in 2021?

How Much Should I Spend on a Violin in 2021?

Articles & Tips
“How much should I spend on a violin?” At MyLuthier this is one of the most frequently asked questions, but confusingly the cost of a stringed instrument can range anywhere between £100 – £10million.
Ariel Lang
Ariel Lang
November 22, 2020
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