<![CDATA[The Loft Violin Shop

<![CDATA[The Loft Violin Shop - Blog]]>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 09:05:43 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Women in Lutherie]]>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/women-in-lutherieHappy Women's History Month! This month we want to highlight current women luthiers around the world. While it is still a male-dominated industry, there are many women making their mark in the luthierie.

Ute Zahn

Zahn is a German luthier who graduated from the Newark School of Violin Making in Newark, England in 1987. In 1992, she set up her own business as a violin maker and restorer in Hong Kong. In 1998, she helped set up the workshop of Vintage Violins in Vancouver, B.C. and spent a few months there. She has also worked for Claire Givens Violins in Minneapolis, and House of Note in St. Louis Park. In 2011, Zahn joined Luthiers sans Frontieres, a non-profit organization that provides repair services to musicians, orchestras, and ensembles in areas where no local services are available. She also taught violin making in Red Wing, MN from 2012 to 2016. You can read more about Ute Zahn’s work here: http://www.utezahnviolinmaker.com/

Amanda Ewing

Amanda Ewing is the first officially recognized Black woman luthier in United States history. After working in hospitality, she went back to playing violin, and joined a symphony where she met a luthier. She began to shadow the luthier, and do research, which led her to making instruments. She spent five years learning the craft, and has been making instruments for the last three years. Amanda has made four violins and one banjo. She founded Black in Lutherie, an organizations that aims to expand dialogue about and document the history and contributions of Black creatives in instrument making. You can check out her Instagram for more: @thelutherielounge.

Stephanie Voss

Stephanie Voss has been a member of the Federation of German Violin and Bow Makers since 2002. Before opening Voss Violins in Atlanta, Georgia, Stephanie worked with Williams Gengakki Violins, and helped develop the workshop there. Stephanie graduated from the Musical Instrument Making School in Mittenwald, Germany.

Marilyn Wallin

Marilyn Wallin is an award-winning luthier that has made over 200 instruments. Some of the instrument owners have played in the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, and more. You can check out her website: https://www.violamaker.net/

Amelyse Arroyo

Amelyse Arroyo started playing the violin when she was six years old. Around middle school, Arroyo’s interest in how the instrument worked was born. She worked in local shops for many years, and in 2011 she was sent to learn to rehair bows. She took her first bow making course in 2014 with Steve Beckley, and then studied at The Violin Craftsman Institute with Lynn Hannings and George Rubino. She has also been David Forbes’ apprentice. You can check out her website here: https://www.arroyobows.com/

Marianne Jost

Marianne Jost studied at the International School of Violin making in Cremona under Francesco and Vincenzo Bissolotti in the 1990s. In the early 2000s, she worked in Rainer Krause’s workshop in Germany, where she perfected her abilities in string instrument restoration. She won third prize at the International Violin Making Competition in Mexico in 2008. In 2012, she earned the highest score among Cremonese violin makers in the Triennale International Violin Making Competition in Cremona. In 2017, she was awarded first prize for Best Technique at the International Violin Making Competition in Prague.

Lynn Armour Hannings

Lynn Armour Hannings is a bowmaker. She studied with John Roskoski and William Salchow in New York. She was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship and the Annette Kadé Fellowship, which allowed her to spend a year studying in Paris with Bernard Millant. She is a teacher of bow rehairing, restoration, and bow making for historical preservation at universities in the United States. You can check out her website here: https://shop.lahbows.com/

Ayoung An

Also known as Anna Arietti, Ayoung A was born in Seoul, South Korea. In 2011, she attended the International School of Violin Making in Cremona and studied under Pier Luigi Aromatico Fantoni. She graduated in 2015, and went on to participate in various competitions where she earned several awards, including the “Award Personality” medal at the 2015 International Violin Making Competition in Pisogne, a silver and bronze medal at the 2016 International Violin Making Competition in Rome. In 2020 she opened her own workshop in Cremona, Italy.

Elina Kaljunen

Elina Kaljunen studied instrument making in the Ikaalinen Handcraft school in Finland, and in 1997 earned her diploma from the International Violin Making School in Cremona, Italy. In London, she had an apprenticeship with John Dilworth. Elina Kaljunen has been running her own violin workshop in Helsinki since 1999. Check out her website here: https://www.viuluverstas.fi/

Minjeong Kang

Minjeong Kang began studying at the International Violin Making School in Cremona in 1998. In 2003, she began working with Edgar Russ, now a longtime collaborator. In 2009, they founded Sound of Cremona SRL together. She won the 12th International Triennial Competition for Stringed Instruments with one of her violas, placing fourth overall in her category. You can check out her website here: https://www.minandviolin.com/en-gb/home

]]><![CDATA[Celebrating and learning about Black classical music in February and beyond]]>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/celebrating-and-learning-about-black-classical-music-in-february-and-beyondLast year we shared on our social media local organizations (Urban Strings Columbus, Columbus Cultural Orchestra, and The King Arts Complex), and featured Black composers, musicians, and a luthier to celebrate Black History Month.

This year, we want to share resources for educators, students, musicians, and anyone interested in learning and engaging more with Black classical music, musicians, and composers.

Music by Black Composers (https://www.musicbyblackcomposers.org/)
Music by Black Composers was founded by violinist Rachel Barton Pine. Their mission is:

To inspire Black students to begin and continue instrumental training by showing them that they are an integral part of classical music's past as well as its future.
To make the music of Black composers available to all people regardless of background or ethnicity.
To help bring greater diversity to the ranks of performers, composers, and audiences, and help change the face of classical music and its canon.

MBC is currently on their second phase of their projects, which you can learn more about here: https://www.musicbyblackcomposers.org/about-us/mbc-projects-timeline/.

For violinists, they created three volumes of music books for beginners to advanced players. Each volume includes information about the composers and Black classical music. In addition to their materials for students and teachers, they also have directories for Living Composers and Historic Composers. MBC also has a list of children's books and reference books for adults.

African Diaspora Music Project (https://africandiasporamusicproject.org/)
"The African Diaspora Music Project was founded as a research tool to help singers find art songs for performance and The George Shirley Vocal Competition. It was released in its vocal format with nearly 4,000 titles in 2019. In 2021, we released a new version that added more than 1,000 orchestral scores in a format usable by conductors and players. Our latest iteration that includes recordings, perusal scores, instrumental and chamber music, and curated lists by trusted orchestral conductors was released in 2022."

Institute for Composer Diversity (https://www.composerdiversity.com/)
"The Institute for Composer Diversity works to encourage the discovery, study, and performance of music written by composers from historically excluded groups."
The ICD has databases that encourage performers, teachers, and groups to discover works by marginalized composers.
The ICD also produces an annual Orchestra Repertoire Report with the League of American Orchestras. Each year they analyze and explore how diverse the programs for orchestras in the United States are, as well as what best practices orchestras can take to change.

Classically Black Podcast (https://www.classicallyblackpodcast.com/)
"Classically Black Podcast shows listeners the world of classical music through the eyes of Dalanie and Katie: two Black classical musicians on the rise looking to share their perspective with a new and interesting twist. Classically Black Podcast centers Black voices and challenges ideas of what the field of classical music looks like. Additionally, by including humor and references to popular culture, the hosts aim to make classical music more approachable to listeners who are not classically trained. At its core, Classically Black Podcast was created with the purpose of showing Black musicians that even in an industry that so clearly lacks diversity, they are visible and their voices matter."
Classically Black Podcast has new episodes every Monday available wherever you get your podcasts.

Melanated Moments in Classical Music (https://classicalmusicindy.org/podcasts/melanated-moments/)
"Melanated Moments in Classical Music, the award-winning podcast from Classical Music Indy, shines a spotlight on musical works composed by, for, and about Black people. Melanated Moments is hosted by international opera soprano, Angela Brown and music sociologist Joshua Thompson. Angela and Joshua's chemistry is electric, balancing fun, lively commentary with no-nonsense straight talk. Telling history like it is, Angela and Joshua share a deep commitment to being a voice for Black artists as Black artists."
This podcast was named Best Music Podcast by the 2020 Black Podcasting Award.

If there are any resources you know about and love, feel free to share it with us in the comments! Happy Black History Month!]]><![CDATA[Tis the season- to humidify!]]>Sat, 18 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/tis-the-season-to-humidifyAs the weather starts to get chilly and we keep cozy and warm, we need to make adjustments to ensure our instruments are comfortable too!

Here in the midwest, as the temperature drops, normally too comes a drop in humidity levels. This happens especially in our homes when we kick on our furnaces and send dry, warm air throughout the house. Just as we may need to put on lotion or add humidifiers to keep us comfortable, our instruments also need the added humidity to prevent cracks and open seams. Since our instruments are made of wood, they are very susceptible to humidity changes. Shrinkage cracks and/or edges coming unglued are common for instruments stored in overly dry conditions.

The ideal environment for string instruments lives in the 40-60% humidity range. Some homes may be at this level naturally or by using furnace humidifiers, but many musicians need to take extra steps to keep their instruments in working order. Although this guide is not all inclusive, we hope to provide a good foundation of understanding to get started.

Room Humidifier/ Furnace Humidifier

One method for keeping your instrument well maintained is to have a humidifier in the room where the instrument is stored. Some homes have a humidifier addition on their furnace as well. Note that these methods work best when the instrument is stored outside of the case. Instrument stands or wall hangers (violin/ viola) can be purchased at The Loft to ensure safe out-of-case storage. If the humidifier doesn't have a built in hygrometer, we recommend setting up a stand alone hygrometer in the room to monitor the humidity levels.

Oasis Case Humidifiers

For those who prefer to store their instruments in a case, in-case humidifiers are best. Although cases protect from damage, they also prevent external humidifiers from being as effective against shrinkage damage. Oasis humidifiers are a good visual option as they shrink up when they need refilled with water. They also come with magnets that help hold it in place in the case and make it easy to remove the tube when it's time to refill it. An added bonus of the Oasis is that you do not have to purchase additional refill packets. This type of humidifier works best in violin cases, viola cases, and hard shell cello cases. There is a version of the Oasis humidifier that we also carry suited to bass bags.

Stretto Humidifier

Stretto packs are another option as an in-case humidifier. Inside the plastic shell is a bag that users re-wet roughly every two weeks (depending on the environment the instrument is stored in). Eventually, the bag will need replaced. Replacements are available at The Loft! On the plastic shell is velcro for easy adhesion to the interior of a case. Strettos come in a violin/ viola and cello (hard shell case only) variety.

Boveda Packs

Boveda packs are a unique option because they boast two way humidity control and low maintenance. Unlike some of the other options, Boveda packs can be used in cello and bass bags. The packs are filled with salt and water and sealed by a reverse osmosis membrane. You put the pack in the leakproof cover and tuck it somewhere in the case where it will not be punctured. Boveda's website recommends replacing the pack every 3 months on average.

D'Addario Small Instrument Humidifier

The D'Addario Small Instrument Humidifier works similarly to the Strettos. Inside the black casing is a sponge that simply has to be re-wet when it becomes dry. D'Addario states it could be anywhere from days to weeks between re-wetting depending on the environment in which the instrument is stored. The casing is intended to evenly distribute the humidity through the case. This humidifier is intended to be used for smaller instruments like violin and viola.

What about Dampits?

Dampits are another way of humidifying your instrument, albeit a bit more old school. We tell customers that if they want to use a Dampit, to be very careful in doing so. Dampits can bring a higher risk as you are putting a submerged sponge directly into the instrument f-holes. You must use caution to ensure there will be no drips into the interior of your instrument. Dampits also must be monitored closely as dried up Dampits may actually pull moisture out of the air.

If you still have questions, we are happy to help! Give us a call at 614-267-7221 or send us an email at violins.theloftviolinshop@gmail.com

]]><![CDATA[Don't Buy That Cheap Violin]]>Fri, 14 Jan 2022 15:38:11 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/dont-buy-that-cheap-violinHere at the Loft, we are often asked: "What’s the difference between your violins and the ones we see on the internet for $49.99?” The differences are important and easy for trained eyes to observe but somewhat difficult to explain without experience. We’ve chosen four major differences that set our instruments apart.

Four Major Differences in Instruments:

1. Quality of the woods and components.
Violin construction has evolved very little in the past 400 years. Instrument tops are still made from spruce while the back, sides, neck, and scroll are cut from maple.

If a violin has inferior components the sound, structural integrity, and playability will be compromised. A poorly made violin will be prone to warping, cracking, going out of tune, and just plain sounding bad. A beginning student needs a reliable instrument!

2. Quality of the set up
How a violin is “fitted” is also important. Proper bridge height, fit and curve; fingerboard shape and curve; tailgut, tailpiece and fine tuner adjustments; properly fitted pegs; and soundpost placement are just some of the necessary details in fitting an instrument. Many educators agree that a student learner needs a violin that is set up even better than a professional.

3. Quality of service, repair, and follow up.
Owning a new violin and beginning a lifelong adventure of learning music requires a solid support team. When things go wrong with the instrument-- and things often can go wrong-- having a skilled team to care for your instrument is critical. Violins are still fragile instruments and require care and maintenance to stay, “fit as fiddles." This is why getting an instrument from a local shop staffed with luthiers and staff well versed in their instruments is so important.

4. Taking the next step – Trade in/Trade up.
You aren’t going to be a beginner forever. We hope you continue to enjoy the violin and move on to bigger and better things. Look for a good violin shop that has a wide selection of instruments in many price ranges from all over the world; preferably both old and new instruments. At the Loft, we offer an 100% trade in/ trade up program (terms apply see "Trade-in/Trade-up" tab) making it easy to upgrade your instrument for years to come.

Questions about getting your first violin:

Question # 1: Why does my child need a good instrument if they’re just starting?

A poorly crafted and fitted instrument is a recipe for frustration. The difficulty and struggle to make a “bad” violin play well will hinder a student’s progress and not reward their hard work . A properly made and fitted violin will give the student the BEST chance of success and reward.

We have a specialized purchaser on staff who has worked as a performer, educator, and instrument specialist for over 20 years. Likewise, our team of luthiers have studied the craft in verified instrument repair programs.

Question # 2: What’s the advantage of investing in an instrument if my child may quit?

A good rental program should allow you to keep your equity but also have the flexibility to opt of the contract at any time. Look for a plan where 100% of your payments apply toward the cost of owning the instrument. Also be sure to find a program without a set contract period-- you don't want to be locked into keeping an unwanted instrument.

Our plan assures 100% equity towards 100% of the cost of the instrument, but you may return an unwanted instrument at any time during the rental program.

Question #3: Should I invest in the highest quality instrument possible for my child?

Our quality student instruments are crafted to provide the best learning opportunity for students. Often, older and more expensive instruments come with “quirks” that require a skilled and adaptable technician to produce the best sound. A good student instrument is like a reliable car; good, solid, and will get you there safely.

To ensure the best learning experience, we choose instruments designed for student players and set them up for ease of use with reliable strings and bow selections. Each instrument is inspected and set up individually.

Instrument know-how is niche knowledge that can be overwhelming or confusing. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have. Simply give us a call at 614-267-7221!

]]><![CDATA[Not All Rental Plans Are Created Equal...]]>Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:43:54 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/not-all-rental-plans-are-created-equalRental instruments are a great first choice for any new beginner or someone getting back into playing. Sure, we're a little biased, but we do think we have a really awesome program. Our rental program is available to anyone, not just school students or locals. We have customers all across the country! Read on to see what sets our rental program apart:

Let's Keep it Simple

Trying to understand rental options should not be your top stressor when learning to play a string instrument. We want to keep it as simple as possible. The Loft is all about the accessibility of music to everyone. We never want costs nor lengthy contracts to be a barrier. We have one rental plan, and that is a month-to-month, 100% rent-to-own program with included repairs and maintenance. All rental outfits will include a professionally set up instrument, bow, case, rosin, and a cleaning cloth. Violin and viola outfits also include a contoured foam shoulder rest, and cello and bass outfits include a rock stop.

5 Questions to Ask When Comparing Rental Programs

1. What percent of monthly payments go towards purchase? OURS: 100%
2. How much is the monthly maintenance fee and what does it cover? OURS: All maintenance and accidental repairs are included at no extra fee while you rent
3. Is there a large, diverse selection of step-up instruments? OURS: Yes
4. Is there a local store at which repairs are done on site by luthiers? OURS: Yes
5. Are there restrictions on step-up instruments I can purchase? OURS: No

What about Changing Sizes?

For young beginners, we know that they're bound to grow, and we want the instrument to always be the right size. That's why we've built in size exchanges into our rental program. Any equity built up in an instrument applies to the next size, even after you have paid it off. Keep it in good shape, and you'll have 100% trade in towards the next size! This policy means not starting from scratch every time a student needs to size up.

We're Here for You!

The Loft Violin Shop is a family-run business that has been serving central Ohio musicians for over 45 years. Owned and operated by professional musicians, educators, and craftsmen, our skilled team offers exceptional attention to each instruments, whether it is for the most advanced player or a new student. While we are happy to offer advice and insight to renters and non-renters alike, we will have extra insight when helping a renter. We know the ins and outs of the instruments we rent and stand by our work. Whether you need help tuning, want to learn more about the instrument, or need help looking for teachers or resources, we look forward to helping you.

We've Partnered with Greater Columbus Schools

We've partnered with many of the local school districts in the Greater Columbus area. At many districts, we visit weekly (as needed) and drop off new rentals, rental size exchanges, fresh strings and supplies, books, and accessories conveniently to your school. We work closely with many of the teachers and local programs. Supporting music education and our community is very important to us. We want all kids to have access to strings!

Sold yet?

We have all kinds of resources on our website under the rental program tab including flyers, informative videos, sizing guides, the rental application, and more. For those who prefer paper applications, please stop by our shop to fill them out. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at 614-267-7221 or violins.theloftviolinshop@gmail.com and we will be glad to answer them.

]]><![CDATA[Orchestral Music Isn't Just Western Classical Music...]]>Thu, 17 Jun 2021 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/orchestral-music-isnt-just-western-classical-musicWhen we think of orchestral instruments and what type of music they are part of, we tend to jump straight to Western classical music. While a popular genre for violins, violas, cellos, and basses in the U.S., it is important to recognize the many other styles played here and around the world. Although not an extensive list, it's a great place to start learning!

Western Classical

Living in the United States, Western classical music is likely the type of orchestral music you are most familiar with. This type of music is composed or created in Europe, the U.S., or another country colonized by European settlers. Western classical is typically written for full orchestras including violin, violas, cellos, basses, brass, woodwinds, percussion, etc. One characteristic that separates Western classical from many other genres is the fact that it is written down and composed rather than improvised. This was historically due to the fact that church leaders wanted consistency and accuracy in their hymns. Classical music has evolved over time and gone through several stylistic periods including medieval, baroque, romantic, and modern. Because of the vast history and evolution over time, it is hard to characterize Western classical music by any one trait. The genre does tend to be fairly complex in sound and polyphonic, layered with melodies, harmonies, textures, etc. One example of Western classical music is Edward Elgar's popular piece, Enigma Variations performed by the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra. Take a listen!

Irish & Scottish Fiddle

Violins, or in this style, fiddles, are often the centerpieces in modern day Irish and Scottish fiddle music. Traditionally, bodhrans (drums), fiddles, whistles, pipes, concertinas, and harps are key instruments in the style. Much of Irish music consists of either slow ballads or upbeat music for dancing. Originally, pipes and whistles were used as warning signals, but as the instruments evolved, people began to make music with them. When the Celts arrived, they also showed the natives how to perform, and thus fiddling evolved. Fiddle music is often played in 6/8 time or 2/2 time with bowing and accents being a large part of the style. Some violinists will switch out their bridge for a fiddling bridge as well. The Swallowtail Jig is a well known tune that exemplifies the fiddle style on violin.

Bluegrass

Bluegrass music originated in the Appalachian region of the U.S. in the 1940s. Typical instrumentation consists of acoustic instruments including violins, double basses, banjos, guitars, mandolins, harmonicas, and vocals. Bassists often play in a slap style with an emphasis on the off beats. Violins can take the part of the melody or harmony, often with the vocals taking the lead. Bluegrass music is often narrative, telling the story of everyday life. The style was created with many influences including European music, fiddle tunes, jazz, and blues. Take a listen to this example of Bluegrass music!

Jazz

Jazz music originated in the late 1800s in the black neighborhoods of New Orleans. Largely expressionist, jazz tends to be improvised and soulful. Ensemble composition varies, but percussion, upright basses, and brass are common. The example below is more orchestral in nature, and is a great example of how your instrument can play this genre. Jazz comes in many different forms, and thus can be difficult to characterize, but influence from the blues and gospel music are evident throughout. Much of jazz is rhythmic, features swing notes, and is free style. Take a listen to world renowned bassist Esperanza Spalding's performance.

Indian Classical

Indian classical music comes in two main styles- Northern Indian (Hindustani) and Southern Indian (Carnatic). Although very similar, they do have a few distinct characteristics. One such difference is that Hindustani music tends to be more improvised whereas Carnatic is typically composed. But what makes Indian classical music different than Western classical music? There are actually many notable differences, one of which being instrumentation and playing techniques. Indian classical often features sitars, percussive instruments, and violins. Despite having the violin in common, the instrument is held and played much differently than in Western classical. They are also tuned differently, often in octave 5ths. Indian classical music tends to be homophonic, focusing around a melody, rather than polyphonic, like in the Western style, will many layers, harmonies, and textures. Take a listen to Charumathi Raghuramen performing in the Indian classical style!

Electric/ Popular

Orchestral music can be found in all kinds of pop culture including movie scores, pop music, cover groups, and more! Sometimes the instruments are electric and other times they are acoustic and electrified with a pick up or microphone. Well known artists that include orchestral string instruments in their work include Lindsey Stirling, The Lumineers, and AJR. Some groups are entirely instrumental and do covers of popular songs. Such groups include 2Cellos and The Piano Guys. In terms of movies, John Williams is one of the most famous movie score composers and is featured in works like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and more. This inclusion of traditional string instruments into pop culture is a great way to exposure more people to the art and give people an idea of just how much these instruments can do. Take a listen to 2Cellos performance of music from Pirates of the Caribbean!

References/ Links to More Info:
Classical
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_music
https://www.beckydellmusicacademy.co.uk/western-classical-music/
https://www.britannica.com/art/Western-music/The-Classical-period
https://serenademagazine.com/series/music-education/what-is-western-classical-music-how-is-it-different-from-indian-classical-music/
Fiddle
https://www.claddaghdesign.com/ireland/traditional-irish-music-whats-it-all-about/
Bluegrass
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluegrass_music
Jazz
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jazz
Indian Classical
https://serenademagazine.com/series/music-education/what-is-western-classical-music-how-is-it-different-from-indian-classical-music/
https://akkarai.in/violin/index.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_classical_music
Pop
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Williams

]]><![CDATA[Maintenance Basics for Your Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass]]>Thu, 13 May 2021 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/maintenance-basics-for-your-violin-viola-cello-or-bassSometimes the best way to think of your instrument is as a child or a pet. In fact, we call our beginners guide to maintenance our "care and feeding" instructions. Whether you're a new beginner or an advanced player, maintenance is always something to keep up with as it prevents more issues down the road and improves the quality of your performing. Read on for tips!

Basic Care and Feeding

Our care and feeding tips are our introductory guide to instrument care. They are largely designed with our rental program in mind, but can be applied to most instruments. Each rental instrument comes with a "birth certificate" listing information about the instrument itself and basic instrument care. In light of COVID, and for an even clearer visual, this past year we created care and feeding videos for violin/ viola and cello/ bass. We encourage all beginners and new renters to watch them. Here are some of the highlights:

Always loosen your bow before putting it away- try not to touch the hair
Wipe any rosin off the top and strings with your soft cloth- no cleaners or polishes
Don't store a bass or cello upright, lay it on its side, bridge towards the wall
Don't don't expose your instrument to extreme heat nor humidity
Your pegs will loosen and slip due to changes in temperature and humidity- this is normal. Ask your teacher of Loft technician to adjust them for you

Yearly Maintenance

Just like it's recommended that you visit the doctor for a yearly physical, we recommend that instruments come in for yearly check-ups. The amount of time you spend playing, your technique, and your climate may all effect how often maintenance needs done, but on average, you'll want to change your strings and get a bow rehair once a year. Both can be done at our shop. For a list of strings we sell, please refer to the String Pricing Chart. Upon asking for a checkup, we will look over your instrument over for any other issues like open seams, bridge warping, and action height. We don't charge for repair estimates, and all repairs are subject to your approval, so there's no down side in stopping by!

In Short: We recommend yearly checkups that include a repair assessment, a set of new strings, and a bow rehair.

Humidity

Here in Ohio we get to experience the highs and lows of humidity throughout the year. Sometimes, it seems to happen just in the same week! Generally, we suggest trying to keep the instrument at 40-60% humidity. In the winter months, this may mean purchasing a room humidifier, case humidifier, or dampit. If an instrument gets too dry, it can cause open seams and cracks which can be expensive to repair. Stable humidity also helps an instrument stay in tune. In the summer, dehumidifiers may be necessary, although not as commonly in Ohio. Keeping a humidity gauge in the room is usually the best way to monitor it. In shop we sell dampits, Boveda packs, Oasis case humidifiers, D'Addario case humidifiers, and Stretto case humidifiers. They're all fairly inexpensive and protecting your instrument is certainly worth the investment.

Why Choose The Loft?

The Loft is your one stop shop for all things violin, viola, cello, and bass. We have an experienced staff of luthiers on site at all times to perform any maintenance you may need on your instrument. As musicians ourselves, we pride ourselves on our quality craftsmanship and customer service. No one will know the needs of you and your string instrument better than a specialized string shop. Plus, you get the benefit of supporting a local, family owned business! Whether it's a big repair job or yearly maintenance, we are happy to help and hope to see you soon!

]]><![CDATA[Step By Step-ping Up Guide]]>Mon, 12 Apr 2021 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.theloftviolinshop.com/blog/step-by-step-ping-up-guideReady to take your playing to the next level? It can be hard to know how to go about picking out a new instrument, so we created a step by step guide to make the process as easy as possible. This guide can be used when going from a rental instrument to a nicer one, picking out an instrument for the first time, or trading your nice instrument for an even better one. For more information on our trade-in/ trade-up policy, please view the policy page under the "Resources" tab.

1. Budgeting
The first thing to figure out is the price range you have in mind for the instrument. Our step up violins start at $850, but we have instruments up to $250,000. Figure out what you’re comfortable spending, keeping in mind any trade-in from our shop. Unlike our rentals, step-up items come “a la carte,” so the bow, case, and instrument will need their own individual budgets. Our inventory is constantly changing, so give us a call to discuss what might fit into your budget.

2. Schedule an Appointment
Once you’ve worked out a budget, give us a call to schedule an appointment. Scheduling a time essentially allows us to reserve a price range of instruments for you to try, and allows us to have them set up for you when you arrive. Generally, give yourself at least 2 hours to try stuff out. We’ll check in with you as needed. Keep in mind that Fridays and Saturdays are our busiest days, so schedule early!

3. Choose Instrument
One of the toughest steps to offer advice on is how to choose the instrument itself. It’s such a personal preference, but we do have some pointers. Don’t choose by brand or by which one is most expensive. Decide if you like a darker or brighter sound. Feel out what is comfortable to play. What type of instrument is best suited for your performing style? Come with some ideas before you shop, but also know your favorite may surprise you and that’s okay!

4. Choose Bow
Quick Link: https://stringsmagazine.com/a-quick-guide-to-buying-a-bow/
Now that you’ve narrowed down what instrument you like, it’s time to look at bows. The two upgraded types are carbon fiber and wood. This online guide gives you a great idea as to the pros and cons of each. If you’re not sure, go ahead and try both.

5. Choose Cases
Quick Link: https://stringsmagazine.com/how-to-buy-a-violin-or-viola-case/
Cases vary widely in cost and quality. Violinists, violists, and cellists must decide if they want a hard case, or one with a fabric cover. Popular violin and viola cases include Pedi, Tonareli, and Bobelock. Hard cello cases start around $500 and increase in price as they get lighter. Bass cases only come as bags, but upgraded, extra padded bags are available for purchase, starting around $250.

6. Choose Accessories
The last thing to consider is any accessories you might need. Rosin, shoulder rests, endpin stoppers, mutes, pickups: we have it all! Coming up with a list of items you might need before you come is a great way to work it into your budget. Especially if you’re sizing up, consider too if items like shoulder rests will be compatible with the new size.

If you have any questions, we are happy to talk prices and options with you. Please just give us a call at 614-267-7221 or send us an email with the price range you have in mind for more details. Appointments can be made by phone or email.

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