Business Details
43 Years
experience
Custom String Instruments & Repair Services in Tampa
Importuno Violins, established in Tampa, Florida, has dedicated over four decades to the artistry of crafting, repairing, and restoring fine string instruments. Founded by master luthier John V. Importuno, the business combines traditional Old Italian techniques with modern innovation to create custom violins, violas, cellos, and basses. With expertise honed through apprenticeships under renowned masters and decades of hands-on experience, the company serves musicians ranging from beginners to professionals in major symphonies.Their services include precision repairs, bow rehairing, complete restoration, and the creation of handcrafted instruments using aged European tonewoods and oil-based varnishes. Recognized for their commitment to quality, Importuno Violins provides personalized consultations, ensuring each instrument meets the unique needs of its player while maintaining acoustic excellence and aesthetic beauty.
Services
Violins
Violas
Cellos
Basses
Bows
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of expertise in violin craftsmanship and restoration.
- Our custom instruments use aged European tonewoods and Old World varnishes.
- We provide personalized consultations for student and professional musicians.
- Our repair shop handles cracks, restorations, and bow rehairing with precision.
- We serve local and national symphonies, music stores, and educational institutions.
What people say
Master craftsman
Excellent work
Superior sound
Personalized service
Long-term reliability
Services
Custom Violin Making
Importuno Violins creates bespoke string instruments using aged European spruce and maple. Each violin, viola, or cello is varnished with oil-based Baltic Amber formulas for rich tonal quality. The process incorporates Old Italian traditions while accommodating modern preferences like electric designs. Musicians receive instruments tailored to their playing style and aesthetic preferences.
Instrument Repair
The shop specializes in fixing cracks, open seams, and neck repairs for violins, violas, cellos, and basses. Repairs use sturgeon glue for structural integrity and preserve varnish aesthetics. Technicians address humidity damage, pegbox cracks, and fingerboard issues to restore functionality and sound quality for professional and student instruments.
Bow Rehairing
Bows are rehaired with premium horsehair, including black, salt-and-pepper, or white options. Technicians replace tips, pearl slides, and leather grips to enhance playability. Regular rehairing prevents sound degradation caused by brittle hair, ensuring consistent performance for violinists, violists, and cellists.
Complete Restoration
Vintage instruments undergo meticulous restoration to preserve original craftsmanship while improving playability. The process includes structural reinforcement, varnish touch-ups, and soundpost adjustments. Restorations maintain historical integrity while enhancing tonal resonance for heirloom or professional-grade instruments.
Appraisals
Experts evaluate instruments for authenticity, condition, and market value. Appraisals document provenance and guide restoration decisions for antique or high-value pieces. Clients receive detailed reports for insurance purposes or resale assessments, ensuring accurate valuation of violins, violas, and cellos.
People
John V. Importuno
Master Violin Maker
With over 40 years of experience, John V. Importuno studied under masters like Robert Benedetto and Bill Salchow. He crafts custom instruments for professionals and students, blending Old Italian techniques with modern designs. His work is featured in testimonials from musicians like Colin G. Matthews and Doug Cameron.
Colin G. Matthews
Professional Violinist
A Trinidad-born violinist, Colin performs in Indiana casinos and owns a custom 'Proteus' violin from Importuno. He praises its acoustic-electric versatility and craftsmanship. His career spans classical and crossover genres, including performances with Gregg Allman and at Resorts Casino.
Doug Cameron
Electric Violinist
Doug Cameron, an electric violinist since age five, collaborates with Importuno on custom instruments like his 'Colbalt' model. He has toured with Gregg Allman and performed in Los Angeles studios. His son Alex also uses Importuno violins for performances and charity work.
Questions
What types of instruments do you specialize in?
We specialize in violins, violas, cellos, and basses, offering both traditional acoustic and custom electric models for students and professionals.
Can you repair antique string instruments?
Yes, we provide complete restoration for antique instruments, preserving historical integrity while enhancing playability and sound quality using traditional methods.
How often should I rehair my bow?
Bows should be rehaired every 6-12 months depending on usage. Frequent players or those in humid climates may require more frequent maintenance.
Do you offer custom design options?
Yes, we create fully customized instruments with options for wood selection, varnish, inlays, and structural details to match your artistic vision.
What repair services do you provide?
We handle cracks, open seams, neck repairs, soundpost adjustments, and bow rehairing using professional-grade materials and techniques.
Are your instruments suitable for professional musicians?
Yes, our instruments are used by professional musicians in symphonies, casinos, and recording studios, offering superior tonal quality and craftsmanship.
