Menzel Violins

Menzel Violins, founded in 1973 by Richard E. Menzel, is an esteemed dealer of quality violins, violas, and cellos in New Jersey. Inspired by his background in aerospace quality control, Menzel developed and implemented numerous new repair techniques and tools, making him a pioneer in the field of lutherie. His passion for music and commitment to integrity in business dealings have set a high standard for the company, and his legacy continues to inspire us today.

Richard Menzel studied lutherie with the renowned Carleen Hutchins of Montclair, New Jersey, whose works can be seen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He was also the Secretary of the Catgut Acoustical Society for twenty-five years, further solidifying his expertise in the field. His dedication to the art of lutherie and his commitment to ethical business practices have made Menzel Violins a trusted name in the industry.

Our Services

At Menzel Violins, we offer a wide range of services to cater to the needs of musicians of all levels. Our inventory is carefully curated to include only the finest European and American full-size instruments, selected for their true and clear tone. We specialize in classical, traditional, and carnatic playing styles, ensuring that our instruments meet the diverse needs of our customers.

In addition to our sales, we also offer repair, restoration, lessons, and workshops. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch service and ensuring that every instrument that leaves our shop is in optimal condition. We believe in fostering a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging musicians to showcase their hard work and skill in our public recitals, shows, and free jam sessions.

Our Commitment to Ethics

We are proud to be one of the few dealers nationwide to speak out against the pernicious illegal practice of teacher kickbacks (collusion). These kickbacks can increase the price of an instrument by 2 to 10 times, often leaving consumers with overpriced investments that cannot be supported by the open market. Since our inception, we have spurned this pervasive practice, assuring our customers of prices at a wholesale level. We believe in transparency and honesty, and we encourage all musicians to do their homework before making a purchase.

Inventory Highlights

Our inventory is constantly evolving, but we always strive to offer a diverse selection of instruments that cater to different needs and preferences. From our starter student outfits priced under $200 to our highly collectable and idiosyncratic violins, we have something for everyone. We do not sell Chinese violins due to their lack of intrinsic value, spongy low-grade wood, and tendency to age poorly. Instead, we focus on sourcing instruments from reputable makers who share our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Some examples of our current and previous inventory include:

• A classic old Saxon violin from around 1820, featuring square shoulders, deep chocolate varnish, and beefy upturned edges.
• A German violin with a creased front and back arch, offering a unique and exciting sound.
• A violin by Oskar Hermann Seidel from Germany, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and tone.

Location and Contact

Menzel Violins is located at 4260 Town Center Way, Livingston, New Jersey 07039. We welcome musicians of all levels to visit us and experience our friendly atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a new instrument, seeking repair services, or simply wanting to jam with fellow musicians, we invite you to join us and become a part of the Menzel Violins community.