Portrait
Stefan-Peter Greiner is a German violin maker working between London and Zurich, and one of the most acclaimed luthiers alive. His instruments are not copies. They are original works, defined by clarity, projection and an unusual depth of expression.
Greiner came to making through music and acoustics rather than through a conventional apprenticeship, and that background still shapes the work. He has examined and analysed over a thousand fine violins, including instruments by Stradivari and Guarneri, in order to understand what actually produces their sound. He also directs the making of new instruments at W. E. Hill & Sons in Hampstead alongside Robert Brewer Young.
His violins are played by Christian Tetzlaff, Kyung Wha Chung, Leonidas Kavakos and Clemens Hagen, by members of leading international quartets, and are held by collectors and foundations worldwide. Tetzlaff has described picking one up in the workshop and playing his first concert on it a week later.
Playing a Greiner tells you everything you need to know. The sound radiates warmth but is backed by immense strength, the G string has a depth that feels limitless, and the top end soars with precision. What sets his violins apart is the power. They do not simply project, they fill a hall with a commanding presence and never lose focus. Under the bow they feel alive. We have handled his work from his most sought-after period and it remains the benchmark we measure other contemporary violins against.
Played by
Christian Tetzlaff, Kyung Wha Chung, Leonidas Kavakos, Kim Kashkashian, Antje Weithaas, Ivri Gitlis
Elsewhere
Compare instruments against each other, and against an antique, in a blind test with studio audio. No labels until you have chosen.
Who plays Stefan-Peter Greiner instruments?
Christian Tetzlaff, Kyung Wha Chung and Leonidas Kavakos, alongside professional players internationally.
Where are Stefan-Peter Greiner instruments made?
Between London and Zurich. Every instrument is then set up and checked in our own London workshop before it reaches a player.
How much does a Stefan-Peter Greiner violin cost?
Prices for Stefan-Peter Greiner violins vary considerably depending on the instrument, its date and current availability. Both new and previously owned examples are highly sought after. Contact us for current pricing and instruments available through MyLuthier.
Are Stefan-Peter Greiner violins copies of Guarneri del Gesù?
No. Although Greiner's instruments are predominantly inspired by Guarneri del Gesù and can share some of their visual character, he does not consider them copies. Each instrument is an original work shaped by his own ideas about form, acoustics and sound.
Can I try a Stefan-Peter Greiner violin in London?
Yes. Any Greiner violin currently held by MyLuthier can be tried at our London showroom by appointment. We may also have an instrument to try even when there is nothing available for sale so please get in touch.
Can I commission a Stefan-Peter Greiner violin through MyLuthier?
Yes. We have commissioned new Greiner violins for clients and have handled his instruments over many years. We can advise on current commission opportunities, expected waiting times and any instruments already on order or becoming available through MyLuthier.
