Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Premier Source for String Instruments in Pittsburgh
Founded in 1999, Resonance Violins has established itself as a premier destination for string instruments and related services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our expertise spans the sale, rental, and restoration of violins, violas, cellos, and double basses, catering to musicians of all skill levels from students to professional orchestral performers. Under the leadership of master luthier Xiantong Zhu, our workshop provides meticulous repairs and restorations grounded in decades of experience and international training. We maintain partnerships with prestigious institutions like the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Carnegie Mellon University's Music School, ensuring our work meets the highest professional standards. Our rental program offers flexible size exchanges and damage protection, while our curated inventory features instruments from renowned makers such as Eastman, Scott Cao, and Snow.Every instrument we sell undergoes professional setup in our Pittsburgh workshop, guaranteeing optimal playability and tone. With over 30 years of hands-on experience in violin making and restoration, Mr. Zhu's accoladesincluding multiple international competition medalsunderscore our commitment to craftsmanship. We prioritize customer education through personalized service and transparent pricing, ensuring clients understand their instruments' care and maintenance. Our dedication to quality extends to accessories, with curated selections of bows, strings, and protective cases. As a locally owned business, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern service standards to serve Western Pennsylvania's musical community.
Services
Instrument Repairs
Violin Rentals
Cello Sales
Bow Rehair
String Replacement
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of expertise in violin making and restoration
- Official repair partner for Pittsburgh Symphony musicians
- Rental program with size exchange flexibility
- Damage Protection Plan covering accidental damage
- In-house workshop ensures quality control for all instruments
What people say
Exceptional repair work
Knowledgeable staff
Flexible rental program
High-quality instruments
Prompt service
Services
Instrument Repairs
Our master luthiers provide expert restoration and maintenance for all string instruments. With over 30 years of experience, we handle everything from minor adjustments to major structural repairs using traditional techniques. Each repair receives personalized attention to preserve the instrument's tonal quality and playability.
Violin Rentals
Flexible rental program designed for students and educators. Includes professionally maintained instruments with damage protection options. Allows size exchanges as players grow, with rental credits applicable toward future purchases. All rentals receive custom setup before delivery.
Cello Sales
Curated selection of new and vintage cellos from renowned makers. Each instrument undergoes professional evaluation and setup in our Pittsburgh workshop. Offers range from student models to professional-grade instruments with documentation of craftsmanship and tonal quality.
Bow Rehair
Expert bow rehair services using premium materials. Technicians maintain proper tension and balance while replacing horsehair. Available for all string instrument bows, with options for upgraded fittings and personalized adjustments to optimize playability.
String Replacement
Comprehensive string selection for all skill levels. Includes installation services with recommendations based on playing style and instrument characteristics. Maintains inventory of specialty strings for vintage instruments and unique tonal requirements.
People
Xiantong Zhu
Owner & Master Luthier
Award-winning violin maker with over 30 years of experience. Holds multiple international competition medals for craftsmanship. Trained under renowned makers in China and the US, specializing in traditional Italian violin making techniques and modern restoration methods.
Questions
What are the benefits of renting vs. buying?
Renting allows size adjustments as players grow, includes damage protection, and offers credit toward future purchases. Ideal for beginners testing their commitment to an instrument.
How do I determine the correct instrument size?
Visit our Pittsburgh shop for professional sizing, or consult with your music teacher. We provide sizing guidance for all string instruments based on age and physical dimensions.
What does the Damage Protection Plan cover?
Covers accidental damage, normal wear and tear, and maintenance repairs. Excludes string replacements and intentional damage. Provides peace of mind for student instruments.
Can rental payments be applied toward purchase?
Yes, 100% of first 32 months' rent applies toward purchasing a full-size 4/4 instrument. Credits remain valid as long as your account remains active.
Do you service instruments purchased elsewhere?
Yes, our workshop provides repair and maintenance services for all string instruments regardless of purchase origin. Includes professional setup and restoration work.
