The Bench
Play Them All. Take the One That Sounds Like You.
Philip has been collecting, making and taking instruments on consignment since 1975, and the shop holds far more than its size suggests — student instruments, step-ups, and fine instruments from makers he knows personally. Nothing leaves the shop without being set up properly first. No appointment needed to come try things.
What This Covers
Violins, Violas, Cellos & Basses for Sale
Violins, violas, cellos and double basses across every level and budget
Instruments taken on consignment from makers Philip knows and trusts
Every instrument set up properly before it goes home with you
Play them yourself in the shop, with your own bow, for as long as you need
Straight advice about what your money actually buys at each step up
Trade-up guidance as a student grows into a better instrument
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to try instruments?
No. Customers regularly spend an afternoon in the shop trying instruments with no appointment at all. Because Philip works alone, a quick call to (713) 729-2231 before you drive over is the surest way to know he's there.
How much should I spend on a violin?
That depends on who's playing it and where they are. Philip's approach is to ask your budget and then find the best instrument in it — customers routinely say they walked out with more instrument than they expected for the money. He won't tell you to spend more than you came to spend.
Can I trade in my student instrument toward a better one?
Talk to Philip about your specific instrument and what you're stepping up to — this is a conversation he's had with growing students for fifty years. Bring the instrument with you.
Do you sell strings, cases, rosin and accessories?
Yes — strings, rosin, cases, shoulder rests, bridges and the rest of what players actually run out of. It's a working violin shop, not just a repair bench.
Do you take instruments on consignment?
Philip has taken instruments on consignment from makers for many years. Call the shop to discuss a specific instrument.
Also at the Shop
Other Ways Philip Can Help
Handmade Bows & Bow Repair
Bows made by hand from pernambuco by a Houston bow maker since 1975, plus expert bow repair and a large selection of bows for every budget. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreInstrument Rentals
Violin, viola and cello rentals in Houston for beginners and growing students. Properly sized, properly set up, serviced by the shop. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreSetup, Sound Post & Bridge Fitting
Sound post fitting, bridge cutting, string changes and full setup in Houston. The adjustments that decide how your instrument actually plays. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreAppraisals & Insurance Valuations
Violin, viola, cello and bow appraisals in Houston for insurance and estate purposes, from a luthier with fifty years of instruments through his hands. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreGet Started
Looking for Your Next Instrument?
Come in and play. Philip will listen with you and won't rush the decision.