Yes. Our web site represents the type and variety of instruments we work with. No modern drums or accordions, no ukelins, but plenty of other fun and fine stuff. If it is something that we are interested in, we will probably ask you for lots of information like measurements, serial numbers, etc. and if we are really, really interested, we would like to see photos.

Unfortunately, if you are not sure, the greatest likelihood is that it is not. Hundreds of thousands of violins were produced in large workshops and factories in Germany, France and Czechoslovakia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of these bear the facsimile labels of such famous makers as Antonius Stradivarius, Joseph Guarnerius, Guadagnini, Maggini, Amati, Bergonzi, Stainer, and others. The facsimile labels were used to indicate that the instrument was styled after or inspired by a model made by one of these early makers. These instruments were produced to satisfy the needs of student and amateur musicians for useful and affordable instruments, and sold inexpensively through music shops and catalogs (like Sears and Montgomery Ward). In order to determine whether your violin can be put in good order and be made playable you should make an appointment with a violin shop in your area.

If your instrument is stolen report it to the police immediately. Even though it can be a pain in the neck, you will need this report should the instrument ever turn up. Be sure to include a full description, as well as a serial number or any other unique identifying information. There is always the possibility that the police will recover your instrument. If the instrument is relatively new, notify the manufacturer since some maintain databases of stolen instrument information. Additionally, send notices to reputable shops and repairers in your area. Some publications, such as Vintage Guitar magazine, have free classified sections where you can advertise your stolen instrument. Stolen violins should be reported to the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers and Maestronet for inclusion in their stolen instruments registry.