My Story
My devotion to the violin family of instruments stems from the trifecta of the arts, science, and history behind them, and the "minutiae makes the whole" nature of the violin-family of instruments fits in very well with the way my weird little brain works. After a few years of doing repairs and "just for fun" builds, I founded Taylor Lethbridge Violins in 2015 as a platform to showcase and sell quality, baroque-inspired string instruments and accessories to advancing students and working musicians.
I built my first violins in 2012, and though they were NOT good, the joy of making inspired me to take lutherie a little more seriously, after leaving my day-job in commercial kitchens so I could care for my wife, following her double lung transplant in 2016.
I'm a one-man operation, and time is a finite resource, so I'm unable take on too much work at a time-- but I'm always happy to steer you towards a reputable luthier in your area if my plate is too full.
Custom Orders
What I Provide
With years of experience--and a finely attuned ear-- I am dedicated to helping musicians of every level find the instrument that's right for them. From advancing beginners to soloist performers, and from Guarneris to Stradivaris to Magginis to Lethbridges, I'll never try to push you into buying more violin than you need, or an instrument that's not the right fit for you. Looking to get started? Contact me today and let’s create the piece of your dreams.
Waitlist--an opening should be available around October of 2021.
Service/Repairs
Since I was a kid, I set out to discover a career that would combine creativity with craftsmanship. After experimenting with a slew of careers and arts--from painting to cabinetmaking to musical theatre-- I realized my future was in becoming a luthier, and I opened my workshop. Having serviced violins ranging from $120 Chinese beginner instruments to priceless, generations-old family heirlooms, I know the value of a good set-up and whole-heartedly dedicate myself to giving each repair my all.
My bench rate is $60/hr, though I offer discretionary discounts for students, schools and large repairs--and unlike more unscrupulous "repair shops" that are really just music stores, I'll never bill you for idle dry-time.
In order to present an accurate quote for repairs, I must be able to inspect the instrument by hand, and ideally see or hear you play--if the instrument is in playable condition. If neither of those options are possible, I will offer an estimate range and present a finalized quote once an inspection is completed.
For small repairs, set-ups and adjustments, I often offer on-site labour to mitigate your wait time. I'll be happy to offer this if and when circumstance allow, but until then--I'm offering contactless pickup and dropoff to curb the spread of Covid-19. (Your instrument will be UV-sanitized before the beginning of and after the completion of all services.)
My Past Builds
Portfolio
Il Cannone Guarnerius
2018
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