string selection
 

25% Off All Strings All the Time
Strings are expensive, no getting around it.

Odds are you've checked out a few of the on-line string sellers and have bought there. But there are times when it simply isn't convenient, or even wise. For instance, if you have difficulty putting strings on yourself, you can buy them from us and Kevin will professionally install them without charge. So in an effort to balance the need of having them in your hands now and better pricing, we're taking 25% off all our strings all the time. And if you decide to buy them online anyway, here are some tips that might help...

5 Tips to Quality String Installation:
  • Avoid bridge and soundpost collapse by changing strings one at a time.

  • Increase string and bridge life by putting pencil lead in the string grooves once the old one is off.

  • When possible, wind the string on the peg once or twice and then crossover the top of the windings, finishing with the string exiting the peg from the peg-head side (make the windings lay evenly one next to the other).

  • To avoid string breakage never wind the string all the way to the peg box wall where it can get pinched off.

  • For the health of your bridge and instrument, constantly check the bridge to make sure it's standing straight. Maintain the bridge position as you go and it will be easier.

 
 

The Violin Shop is hosting the 4th Annual Summer String Quartet Program.

This unique program offers a customized schedule for its participants.

Open to students of all levels.

Coaches are professional musicians and teachers; including freelancers, studio musicians & members of the San Diego Symphony.

Spaces are limited. Early registration begins March 1st and no applications will be accepted after April 30th.

See our String Quartet page for more information.


 
 

Do you know about the North Coast Strings Adult Orchestra? Interested in joining the orchestra?
North Coast Strings directed by Paula Simmons and hosted at the Museum of Making Music, is a new musical ensemble designed as an entry point for adults who want to learn
how to play a stringed instrument, or for those who have played a stringed instrument in the past but who haven't played in a number of years.

  • Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings from 7PM-9PM at the Museum.
  • Cost per 14 week session $210.

For more information, please visit
www.northcoaststrings.org
www.museumofmakingmusic.org
or contact Carolyn Grant at the Museum of Making Music.

welcome to the violin shopPaula Simmons & Kevin Smith opened the doors to The Violin Shop in June of 2006 with the commitment to offer students, teachers, and professional musicians a full service string shop that guarantees the highest level of quality in both product and service. They both look forward to working with you.
image owner violin shop
The Violin Shop Hours
Mondays - Saturdays
We are closed on Sundays.

We work by appointment to insure that we can meet each client's needs to the best of our ability with undivided attention. When contacting us for Saturday appointments, please ask for the entry code to the building.

To schedule an appointment, contact us by:
Phone: 858-909-0319
Email: paula@theviolinshopsandiego.com

We carry all available sizes of violins, violas and cellos.
Whether you are looking for a first-time purchase or upgrading, we offer an ever-expanding line of instruments and bows.
Call and make an appointment for a purchase or for a free consultation of our instruments, bows and accessories.
Keep in mind when you purchase an instrument through The Violin Shop our continued maintenance and repair service stays with you and your instruments!

The Violin Shop welcomes
Michael Staehle
as our newest Cello Instructor.

Michael_Steahle

Michael has a lifetime of experience to share with all levels of
inspired Cellists.

To learn more about Michael Staehle on our lessons page.

Kevin has written a series of articles about stringed instruments. If you are considering purchasing an instrument for yourself or your child, take a moment to read his articles, such as MYTHS about violins and bows.

Learning to play a stringed instrument is a challenging endeavor. Quality instruments with the correct setup will make a substantial difference in a beginner’s ability to develop strong fundamental technique.

He understands that for the musician it is all about the sound of their instrument, read about what luthier Kevin Smith knows about the sound of an instrument.