As many of you who have visited us know, Frederick W. Oster Violins occupies a very unique building in Center City, Philadelphia. As a result, we are often asked about the history of the house and its former tenants. We’ve compiled the history of the building as we know it for all who are interested in learning more about […]
Occasionally an instrument comes to us after an accident of some sort and, not unlike surgeons, it’s our workshop’s job to bring it back to good health. The work is meticulous and requires a clear path of action, flexibility and good judgment, and a great deal of patience. A good restorer is often also an artist and an inventor, channeling the style of the maker
Paris violin maker Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume (1798-1875) achieved tremendous recognition during his lifetime for his beautiful and consistent workmanship and the responsiveness of his instruments. His workshop employed many of finest best violin and bow makers of the day. They produced instruments inspired by models from Stradivari, Guarneri del Gesu, Nicolo Amati, and Maggini. Some of these
