Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Violin Dealers & Restoration Experts in Poulton-Le-Fylde
Established in 1975 by Harry George, a former Halle Orchestra violinist, our business has remained a family-run enterprise dedicated to the art of string instrument craftsmanship. Now managed by Kevin George and his wife Kathy, we continue the legacy of excellence with over 40 years of combined expertise in violin, viola, cello, and double-bass restoration and sales. Our workshop, led by master restorer Simon, offers meticulous repairs, bow rehairing, and varnish restoration, supported by Karen George's specialist artistic skills. We pride ourselves on maintaining a curated collection of antique instruments, including rare pieces dating back to Shakespearean times, alongside modern options to suit all levels of musicians.Our comprehensive service includes valuations, a wide range of strings and accessories, and a convenient postal service for customers nationwide. With a deep commitment to preserving musical heritage and fostering instrument longevity, we serve both local and international clients from our purpose-built premises in Poulton-Le-Fylde. Our extensive experience in both performance and craftsmanship ensures every customer receives expert guidance and authentic value. Open five days a week with appointments available for instrument trials, we remain dedicated to providing exceptional service in a tranquil environment conducive to musical appreciation.
Services
Violin Sales
Instrument Restoration
Bow Rehairing
Valuations
Strings & Accessories
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of specialist string instrument expertise from our master restorer Simon
- Our family-run business maintains direct links to professional orchestral performance traditions
- We provide rare antique instruments including pieces from Shakespearean-era craftsmanship
- Our workshop handles everything from beginner string replacements to major restorations
- We offer nationwide postal service for strings and accessories with expert packaging
Services
Violin Sales
We offer a curated selection of new and restored violins ranging from entry-level student instruments starting at 70 to fine antique pieces valued at thousands of pounds. Our inventory includes rare historical instruments dating back to the 16th century, alongside modern craftsmanship options. Every instrument undergoes expert assessment to ensure optimal playability and tonal quality for musicians at all professional levels.
Instrument Restoration
Our specialist restoration service handles everything from minor touch-ups to major structural repairs using traditional techniques and materials. With over 40 years' experience, our workshop undertakes varnish restoration, crack repairs, and edge/purfling restoration while maintaining each instrument's historical integrity. We provide detailed condition assessments and transparent pricing for all conservation work.
Bow Rehairing
Professional bow rehairing services using premium horsehair and traditional methods ensure optimal performance for string players. Our technicians assess each bow's condition, replacing hair and adjusting tension mechanisms to restore playability. We service all sizes from violin to double-bass bows, with appointments available for specialist attention during our busiest trading days.
Valuations
We provide expert valuations for insurance, sale, or inheritance purposes based on decades of market experience and technical assessment. Our appraisal process considers instrument age, maker, condition, and tonal qualities. Clients receive detailed written assessments supported by our extensive knowledge of historical instrument provenance and current market values.
Strings & Accessories
We stock a comprehensive range of strings and accessories for all violin family instruments, including specialist options for different playing styles and budgets. Our inventory covers traditional gut, steel, and synthetic core strings alongside rosin, cases, and maintenance tools. Customers can order through our postal service with secure packaging for nationwide delivery.
People
Harry George
Founder
Established the business in 1975 after a professional career as Halle Orchestra violinist. Studied at Royal Northern College of Music and pioneered combining performance expertise with instrument making.
Kevin George
Business Owner
Took over operations after completing Fine Art studies in Manchester. Developed specialist workshop skills and has led the business since 1981, maintaining its family-run ethos and artisan focus.
Simon
Master Restorer
Head of workshop operations with over 40 years' experience in string instrument restoration. Specialises in structural repairs, varnish conservation, and maintaining historical instrument integrity while ensuring playability.
Karen George
Varnish Specialist
Artist with specialist expertise in varnish restoration techniques. Applies fine art skills to preserve historical finishes while maintaining tonal qualities of restored instruments.
Kathy George
Co-Owner
Supports business operations alongside Kevin, managing day-to-day activities and customer service. Ensures continuity of the family business ethos established in 1975.
Questions
What types of instruments do you sell?
We offer new and restored violins, violas, cellos, and double-basses ranging from entry-level student instruments to fine antique pieces dating back to Shakespearean times.
Do you provide instrument repair services?
Yes, our workshop offers comprehensive restoration including crack repairs, varnish conservation, bow rehairing, and structural maintenance using traditional techniques and materials.
Can I get my instrument valued?
We provide expert valuations for insurance, sale, or inheritance purposes based on detailed technical assessment and current market knowledge.
Are your services available outside the local area?
Yes, we offer postal service for strings and accessories, and can arrange shipping for instruments with secure packaging.
What are your opening hours?
We're open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm. Appointments available for instrument trials during these hours.
Do you buy second-hand instruments?
We regularly purchase quality antique violins, violas, cellos, and bows. Contact us for assessment and valuation of instruments for potential purchase.
