Over the last three years I have been delighted to bring many gorgeous old instruments back to life for their owners, and it's always a joy to see the transformation.
A violin will only sound its best with a professional set-up, so if yours is a bit sad maybe that's all it needs to sound beautiful... however, if it requires a bigger restoration I am happy to also provide this service. I can do smaller jobs myself - changing strings, fitting tailpieces and chin rests, and cleaning.
for bigger jobs, I use one of the UK's top luthiers, the maker and restorer Colin Cross, who I consult regarding every instrument, taking extensive photographs and discussing the job before providing you with an estimate and a detailed list of work required. If you decide to go ahead, I will drive with your instrument to Colin, and when it is finished I will drive down again to collect it.
Some jobs may take a few weeks, so I have two violins I loan out free of charge if you require one while yours is away. One is an antique German violin c.1900 (Erik) and the other a c.1950s Czech (Sandy). Yes, I name some of my instruments!
Any adjustments to the estimate - for example, some jobs require extra work that isn't initially obvious - will be discussed with you before they are carried out, with your approval. I will then invoice you when the violin is returned, and this includes a full list of all work carried out on the instrument.
This service is all inclusive and very competitive, covering the work, an identification,age and rough value of the instrument if requested, and covers my time, travel costs, and full insurance while your instrument is in my care.
I can also provide bow rehairs and repairs on the same basis.
Review from a happy customer:
'My German violin was purchased by my father in 1975 and it is an excellent instrument. Unfortunately, one of the things missing from my musical education as a youngster was the important topic of instrument care. In this regard, I must confess that the violin was largely neglected for nearly 40 years. In 2022, I had the good fortune to meet Fiona, who made an initial assessment of what was required to bring it back to life. In conjunction with one of the UK's finest luthiers, Colin Cross, the work was agreed and Colin carried it out to the very highest standard. This included a neck wedge, fingerboard shoot, new pegs, bridge, sound post and a thorough clean. The overall result was absolutely wonderful and the difference in the instrument is truly remarkable. I unhesitatingly reccomend Fiona for all your violin needs. Her professionalism, accuracy, honesty and integrity are beyond question. Thank you Fiona!'