Here's what our customers have to say about us
“In February 2023, I realised that my belovéd Montagnana copy – close friend for over fifty years – needed serious, expert attention. A new bridge was needed, two table cracks had to be closed, and ribs reattached in some places. With feelings of apprehension, I placed my cello in the care of Woodbridge Violins.
In the event, there was absolutely no reason to feel uneasy. Some three weeks later I collected my instrument, and passed a bow across the strings in the privacy of my home. Apart from looking refreshed and being structurally sound, my cello now spoke more freely; its basic timbre had become even across all registers; there were no wolf notes; and the very high positions on the lower strings had become freely available. A truly astonishing outcome for which my cello and I are truly grateful. Thank you Russell, thank you Jonathan for your superbly executed work. Sincerely, FGH.’’
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“As a family made up of two professional violinists and two young string players, we are constantly popping in and out of Woodbridge Violins for all our varied needs. I cannot recommend Russell and Jonathan highly enough. From rehairing our precious bows, to the careful selection of the perfect instrument (on budget!) for a child , they give each of us equal care and attention and we feel very privileged to have such a wonderful, friendly shop nearby.”
“We are so lucky to have Russell and Jonathan’s skills on our doorstep. I often request last-minute bow rehairing between concerts, and Russell will always go the extra mile and provide a truly personalised service. My fine French bow once needed a very delicate repair and Russell did an outstanding job. I am always happy to leave my old Italian violin in his safe hands for general care and adjustments and his advice is consistently outstanding. A gem of a place!”
“I have always been very happy with the efficiency, courtesy and kindness of Russell, Jonathan and Katherine. From thinking through a problem with my valuable violin to finding a spare bow screw for a child’s outfit, all is done without fuss and with generosity in a calm and friendly environment.
Thank you, team!”
“To experience Woodbridge Violins is to step into an incredibly special place: a beautiful workshop, a treasure trove of instruments, polite and knowledgeable staff who give you time to browse, time to think, time to ask questions and no pressure to make a purchase.
Russell Stowe and his team of experts know their instruments, and their care of customers is second to none. I first met Russell when he began to service my father’s Guarnerius. I could see the level of workmanship, and care to detail all those years ago. Since then, he has looked after my Silvestre violin & bow, and restored them to their former glory. I have recommended many a student to visit Woodbridge Violins, and they have all, without exception, found the advice honest, and the instruments worthwhile.”
“Many thanks for your help in finding an excellent violin bow for my son.
Having just purchased the fine violin bow from Woodbridge Violins, I can say that it was a very enjoyable experience. Russell Stowe is knowledgeable and relaxed, allowing us to choose the bow without any pressure from about a dozen contenders. The bow received his teacher’s wholehearted approval and it will take him through music school and through the conservatoire. It has already enabled him to achieve more advanced bowing techniques. The whole transaction from first contact with Russell to the selection and purchase of the violin bow and afterwards has been a pleasure.”
“Woodbridge Violins is a wonderful and inspiring shop providing an excellent and friendly service.
I have had several violin repairs over the years, sent many students to buy violins, and I have always been extremely happy with the results.”
“Woodbridge Violins can be easily compared to a treasure chest, full of great instruments of all sorts. If one is able to unlock the key to the location of this chest, one would easily become absorbed by what’s waiting for them, with the help of Russell and his team!”
“Russell has an old fashioned charm and courtesy which is rare these days. He is always cheerful, offering helpful advice and reliable workmanship at a reasonable rate. The shop is always well-stocked with instruments and accessories, and Russell will obligingly order items not in stock for customers to try out.”
“My cello has been a patient at Woodbridge Violins on several occasions now, and I am delighted to report that it has always been more than happy with the quality of work that has been undertaken (including a few major operations!). The service that Russell provides is of the highest standard, always friendly, helpful, efficient.”
“I trust Russell implicitly and have no qualms in recommending him to my friends. Over ten years I have never had cause to complain! Russell has always treated me and my colleagues with the utmost respect and professionalism. I won’t go anywhere else!”
“Thank you Russell for breathing new life into my Italian violin.”
“It is always such a pleasure to come to Woodbridge Violins and receive such a warm welcome. Thank you Russell Stowe for looking after my Guarneri and bows with such infinite care and expertise.”
“Woodbridge Violins offer an excellent professional service for string teachers and their aspiring pupils. All attention is paid to detail with customer satisfaction foremost. A friendly family firm that is always a pleasure to do business with”
“Finding someone you trust to look after your instrument is a little like tying to find a doctor. I have to say, I trust Woodbridge Violins implicitly. Not only that, the quality of the work is good, the prices are reasonable and the welcome is friendly and helpful. Why go to London when you can go to Woodbridge Violins?”
“Thank you Woodbridge Violins for helping my son choose his first violin (1/8th). He has been playing now for 6 months and is enjoying it greatly. I’m told by his teacher that ‘setting it up’ as you have, has made a great difference ”
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”