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    • News/Events

    Teaching Aids for Beginner Violinists

    Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby always presents its own challenges. It doesn't help that the violin has its own reputation for being "the hardest instrument in the world" to learn and play. While its true that there's a learning curve, others before us have thought of different ways to solve at least some of the problems we face as stringed instrument players.  Crooked Bow For those who struggle with their bow angle, the Bow Right and the ABC Arm Bow Corrector are sure to help. These devices attach to the body of the instrument and create a narrow, accepted pathway for your bow to glide. When you begin playing with these, its important to make the correction as you draw the bow across to enforce good habits and prevent wear to your bow. Make sure to always to remove the device before you put your instrument away for the night.  Uncomfortable Bow Hold Holding the bow is key for getting a good sound, but it can be tricky to learn where the fingers go and to gain the strength needed in the pinky.  These Bow Hold Buddies and Fom Bow Grips show where to place your index and pinky fingers. It important to note that these will add extra weight to the bow.          C-Bout Damage When starting to play down closer to the frog, sometimes the metal part that holds the bow hair (the ferrule!) can strike the C-Bout of the instrument. This can happen when you upsize to a bigger instrument, or you're learning a different bowing technique. Either way, it's critical to not cause damage to your stringed instrument.  Enter the C-Clip C-Bout Protector! This soft, flexible clip will provide an extra barrier between your bow and the instrument - preventing any chips or cracks.    Remember, all teaching aids are tools to help set you on the right path to healthy habits, but without awareness of your body and playing, you'll simply return to your original playing style with minimal improvement.   Even so, best of luck to you and your musical journey!!   Written by Sarah Soza

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    • News/Events

    Valentine’s Day Favorites: Our Most-Loved Picks

    From cases to rosins, we have everything that string player in your life might need. Here's a list of top rated items at will show that special someone in your life that you see them and their needs.    Cases    Often times, customers will put off purchasing a hard-shelled cello case for later. Take this upcoming holiday as an opportunity to provide the extra protection that's deserved. This MV Composite Cello Case is the perfect balance between eye-catching color and protection!     Maybe you're looking to upgrade to something that's a little bit sweeter - look no further than these BAM Bon-Bon Violin Cases. Made with BAM's proprietary HighTech outer shell, you can be assured that your instrument will have top of the line protection. Not only that, but these colors are limited to this redesigned half-moon style.    Accessories   The KUN Bravo Shoulder Rest for Violin and Viola is one way to make a statement. This high quality shoulder rest combines elegance and beauty with ultimate grip and durability. Its curly maple back and metal hardware make it joy to handle each time.      Mutes are something that that any orchestral member needs, so why not choose something a little more unique? These mutes are 3D printed, making them coloful, textured, and better sounding than the standard performance mutes!   Rosin     Everyone needs a refresh on their rosin. Try out Ruby Rosin, an all-natural rosin and-like Jade Rosin- has minimal dust. The Ruby Soft Rosin is recommended for hotter, more humid environments, while the Ruby Hard Rosin is better for colder, drier climates.        Here's something for the history lovers~ This rosin box is carved into the shaped of a Antonio Stradivari violin model and finished with the famed maker's iconic stamp. This rosin uses an original Millant-Deroux recipe from France.        Written by Sarah Soza

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    • News/Events

    Amos Hargrave- Luthier and Master Teacher-1951-2026

    We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Violin maker and teacher, Amos Hargrave, on January 18th. Before establishing his first shop front, LAVS founder, Owen Lee, had the privilege of studying instrument making, restoration, and repair techniques from Mr. Hargrave. He was an incredible mentor and teacher and Owen, as well as countless other students, benefited greatly from his openness and warmth of spirit across the course of his teaching career. We currently have one of Amos’ violas in our care and we’ve found ourselves playing and examining it with a tinge of sadness but also fond remembrances. Our sincere condolences are with his immediate and extended family. 

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    • News/Events

    Master Bow Maker to Provide Service to LA Violin Shop Community

    We’re excited to announce that from February 16th, 2026 through February 19th, 2026, visiting master bow maker Daniel Yoonsuk Choi will be handling rehairs and other specialized bow services! Daniel will be bringing world-class craftsmanship to our LA studio; this is a rare opportunity to have your bow serviced by one of the finest in the field.  We encourage you to book your spot in advance as his time here is limited.  Please call or email to schedule and leave your bow with us so that Daniel can begin work immediately.  Your instrument deserves the best! ***Please note that our bow rehair services will be temporarily suspended from January 24th, 2026 through February 15th, 2026.*** MAKE AN APPOINTMENT More about Daniel:  With nearly two decades of international experience, Daniel serves a wide range of musicians—from dedicated students to top professionals—who trust him for quality work and attention to detail. Daniel received formal training in violin making at the renowned Stradivari Violin Making School in Cremona, Italy, the heart of a centuries-old tradition of string instrument craftsmanship.  After completing his studies, he built a strong foundation in the repair and restoration of string instruments, later serving as Instrument Repair Manager at Samuel Kolstein & Son in New York. In addition to his experience with instruments, Daniel earned a diploma in bow making and repair from the University of New Hampshire. He went on to become the Bow Repair Manager at the prestigious Salchow & Sons in Manhattan, where he deepened his skills and reputation in bow work. Early on, Daniel began his musical journey in Seoul, South Korea, where he started playing the cello at age 10 and fully committed to the instrument by age 12. He earned a degree in Cello Performance from Chung-Ang University (Korea) and continued his musical studies at the Monteverdi Conservatory in Italy, where he received his diploma in 2004. From 2018 to 2025, Daniel returned to South Korea and established Daniel Choi Bow, a workshop exclusively dedicated to bows. His reputation as a bow specialist quickly grew, attracting clients ranging from advanced students to top professional musicians—not only from Korea, but also from across Asia and beyond—all seeking expert-level craftsmanship in bow repair, restoration, and making. Now based in the U.S., Daniel has founded Daniel Choi Violin and Bow, offering world-class expertise in both instruments and bows. Whether it is a student’s first violin or a professional’s concert instrument, Daniel brings the same level of care and expertise to every repair and restoration.

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    • LA FINE VIOLINS
    • La Forma Del Suono
    • News/Events

    La Forma del Suono: A Celebration of Contemporary Craft and Sound

    La Forma del Suono is an exhibition of contemporary instruments and bows by modern makers, offering musicians the opportunity to view and sample current work in a focused setting. The exhibition coincides with the opening of LA Fine Violins’ new space, next to the Colburn School in DTLA’s historic Grand Avenue Cultural District. Throughout the event, visitors may examine instruments at close range, meet select makers in person, and learn more about contemporary approaches to violin and bow making. On the evening of February 8, a salon-style concert will be presented by professional musicians, featuring instruments and bows from the exhibition. The performance is intended to provide context for how these instruments function in a concert setting. The event is open to professional players, collectors, educators, and others with an interest in contemporary instrument making.  Reserve Your Session Dates: February 7–10, 2026Location: LA Fine Violins, 225 S. Olive St. #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Saturday, February 7 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:00 PM Doors open 5:30 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Sunday, February 8 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:30 PM Doors open 6:00 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Monday, February 9 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close Tuesday, February 10 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close   Accommodations:A special discounted rate is available at the Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza. For the promo code, please email admin@laviolinshop.com. Exhibition: Trial sessions are limited and available by advance registration only.Please reserve a session in advance to ensure dedicated time with the instruments and bows on display. We look forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles for this celebration of sound, craft, and contemporary artistry. La Forma del Suono 2026 E-Brochure    

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    • LA FINE VIOLINS
    • La Forma Del Suono
    • News/Events

    La Forma del Suono: A Celebration of Contemporary Craft and Sound

    La Forma del Suono is an exhibition of contemporary instruments and bows by modern makers, offering musicians the opportunity to view and sample current work in a focused setting. The exhibition coincides with the opening of LA Fine Violins’ new space, next to the Colburn School in DTLA’s historic Grand Avenue Cultural District. Throughout the event, visitors may examine instruments at close range, meet select makers in person, and learn more about contemporary approaches to violin and bow making. On the evening of February 8, a salon-style concert will be presented by professional musicians, featuring instruments and bows from the exhibition. The performance is intended to provide context for how these instruments function in a concert setting. The event is open to professional players, collectors, educators, and others with an interest in contemporary instrument making.  Reserve Your Session Dates: February 7–10, 2026Location: LA Fine Violins, 225 S. Olive St. #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Saturday, February 7 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:00 PM Doors open 5:30 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Sunday, February 8 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:30 PM Doors open 6:00 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Monday, February 9 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close Tuesday, February 10 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close   Accommodations:A special discounted rate is available at the Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza. For the promo code, please email admin@laviolinshop.com. Exhibition: Trial sessions are limited and available by advance registration only.Please reserve a session in advance to ensure dedicated time with the instruments and bows on display. We look forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles for this celebration of sound, craft, and contemporary artistry. La Forma del Suono 2026 E-Brochure    

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    • LA FINE VIOLINS
    • La Forma Del Suono
    • News/Events

    La Forma del Suono: A Celebration of Contemporary Craft and Sound

    La Forma del Suono is an exhibition of contemporary instruments and bows by modern makers, offering musicians the opportunity to view and sample current work in a focused setting. The exhibition coincides with the opening of LA Fine Violins’ new space, next to the Colburn School in DTLA’s historic Grand Avenue Cultural District. Throughout the event, visitors may examine instruments at close range, meet select makers in person, and learn more about contemporary approaches to violin and bow making. On the evening of February 8, a salon-style concert will be presented by professional musicians, featuring instruments and bows from the exhibition. The performance is intended to provide context for how these instruments function in a concert setting. The event is open to professional players, collectors, educators, and others with an interest in contemporary instrument making.  Reserve Your Session Dates: February 7–10, 2026Location: LA Fine Violins, 225 S. Olive St. #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Saturday, February 7 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:00 PM Doors open 5:30 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Sunday, February 8 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:30 PM Doors open 6:00 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Monday, February 9 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close Tuesday, February 10 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close   Accommodations:A special discounted rate is available at the Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza. For the promo code, please email admin@laviolinshop.com. Exhibition: Trial sessions are limited and available by advance registration only.Please reserve a session in advance to ensure dedicated time with the instruments and bows on display. We look forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles for this celebration of sound, craft, and contemporary artistry. La Forma del Suono 2026 E-Brochure    

    Read article
    • News/Events

    Teaching Aids for Beginner Violinists

    Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby always presents its own challenges. It doesn't help that the violin has its own reputation for being "the hardest instrument in the world" to learn and play. While its true that there's a learning curve, others before us have thought of different ways to solve at least some of the problems we face as stringed instrument players.  Crooked Bow For those who struggle with their bow angle, the Bow Right and the ABC Arm Bow Corrector are sure to help. These devices attach to the body of the instrument and create a narrow, accepted pathway for your bow to glide. When you begin playing with these, its important to make the correction as you draw the bow across to enforce good habits and prevent wear to your bow. Make sure to always to remove the device before you put your instrument away for the night.  Uncomfortable Bow Hold Holding the bow is key for getting a good sound, but it can be tricky to learn where the fingers go and to gain the strength needed in the pinky.  These Bow Hold Buddies and Fom Bow Grips show where to place your index and pinky fingers. It important to note that these will add extra weight to the bow.          C-Bout Damage When starting to play down closer to the frog, sometimes the metal part that holds the bow hair (the ferrule!) can strike the C-Bout of the instrument. This can happen when you upsize to a bigger instrument, or you're learning a different bowing technique. Either way, it's critical to not cause damage to your stringed instrument.  Enter the C-Clip C-Bout Protector! This soft, flexible clip will provide an extra barrier between your bow and the instrument - preventing any chips or cracks.    Remember, all teaching aids are tools to help set you on the right path to healthy habits, but without awareness of your body and playing, you'll simply return to your original playing style with minimal improvement.   Even so, best of luck to you and your musical journey!!   Written by Sarah Soza

    Read article
    • News/Events

    Valentine’s Day Favorites: Our Most-Loved Picks

    From cases to rosins, we have everything that string player in your life might need. Here's a list of top rated items at will show that special someone in your life that you see them and their needs.    Cases    Often times, customers will put off purchasing a hard-shelled cello case for later. Take this upcoming holiday as an opportunity to provide the extra protection that's deserved. This MV Composite Cello Case is the perfect balance between eye-catching color and protection!     Maybe you're looking to upgrade to something that's a little bit sweeter - look no further than these BAM Bon-Bon Violin Cases. Made with BAM's proprietary HighTech outer shell, you can be assured that your instrument will have top of the line protection. Not only that, but these colors are limited to this redesigned half-moon style.    Accessories   The KUN Bravo Shoulder Rest for Violin and Viola is one way to make a statement. This high quality shoulder rest combines elegance and beauty with ultimate grip and durability. Its curly maple back and metal hardware make it joy to handle each time.      Mutes are something that that any orchestral member needs, so why not choose something a little more unique? These mutes are 3D printed, making them coloful, textured, and better sounding than the standard performance mutes!   Rosin     Everyone needs a refresh on their rosin. Try out Ruby Rosin, an all-natural rosin and-like Jade Rosin- has minimal dust. The Ruby Soft Rosin is recommended for hotter, more humid environments, while the Ruby Hard Rosin is better for colder, drier climates.        Here's something for the history lovers~ This rosin box is carved into the shaped of a Antonio Stradivari violin model and finished with the famed maker's iconic stamp. This rosin uses an original Millant-Deroux recipe from France.        Written by Sarah Soza

    Read article
    • News/Events

    Amos Hargrave- Luthier and Master Teacher-1951-2026

    We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Violin maker and teacher, Amos Hargrave, on January 18th. Before establishing his first shop front, LAVS founder, Owen Lee, had the privilege of studying instrument making, restoration, and repair techniques from Mr. Hargrave. He was an incredible mentor and teacher and Owen, as well as countless other students, benefited greatly from his openness and warmth of spirit across the course of his teaching career. We currently have one of Amos’ violas in our care and we’ve found ourselves playing and examining it with a tinge of sadness but also fond remembrances. Our sincere condolences are with his immediate and extended family. 

    Read article
    • News/Events

    Master Bow Maker to Provide Service to LA Violin Shop Community

    We’re excited to announce that from February 16th, 2026 through February 19th, 2026, visiting master bow maker Daniel Yoonsuk Choi will be handling rehairs and other specialized bow services! Daniel will be bringing world-class craftsmanship to our LA studio; this is a rare opportunity to have your bow serviced by one of the finest in the field.  We encourage you to book your spot in advance as his time here is limited.  Please call or email to schedule and leave your bow with us so that Daniel can begin work immediately.  Your instrument deserves the best! ***Please note that our bow rehair services will be temporarily suspended from January 24th, 2026 through February 15th, 2026.*** MAKE AN APPOINTMENT More about Daniel:  With nearly two decades of international experience, Daniel serves a wide range of musicians—from dedicated students to top professionals—who trust him for quality work and attention to detail. Daniel received formal training in violin making at the renowned Stradivari Violin Making School in Cremona, Italy, the heart of a centuries-old tradition of string instrument craftsmanship.  After completing his studies, he built a strong foundation in the repair and restoration of string instruments, later serving as Instrument Repair Manager at Samuel Kolstein & Son in New York. In addition to his experience with instruments, Daniel earned a diploma in bow making and repair from the University of New Hampshire. He went on to become the Bow Repair Manager at the prestigious Salchow & Sons in Manhattan, where he deepened his skills and reputation in bow work. Early on, Daniel began his musical journey in Seoul, South Korea, where he started playing the cello at age 10 and fully committed to the instrument by age 12. He earned a degree in Cello Performance from Chung-Ang University (Korea) and continued his musical studies at the Monteverdi Conservatory in Italy, where he received his diploma in 2004. From 2018 to 2025, Daniel returned to South Korea and established Daniel Choi Bow, a workshop exclusively dedicated to bows. His reputation as a bow specialist quickly grew, attracting clients ranging from advanced students to top professional musicians—not only from Korea, but also from across Asia and beyond—all seeking expert-level craftsmanship in bow repair, restoration, and making. Now based in the U.S., Daniel has founded Daniel Choi Violin and Bow, offering world-class expertise in both instruments and bows. Whether it is a student’s first violin or a professional’s concert instrument, Daniel brings the same level of care and expertise to every repair and restoration.

    Read article
    • LA FINE VIOLINS
    • La Forma Del Suono
    • News/Events

    La Forma del Suono: A Celebration of Contemporary Craft and Sound

    La Forma del Suono is an exhibition of contemporary instruments and bows by modern makers, offering musicians the opportunity to view and sample current work in a focused setting. The exhibition coincides with the opening of LA Fine Violins’ new space, next to the Colburn School in DTLA’s historic Grand Avenue Cultural District. Throughout the event, visitors may examine instruments at close range, meet select makers in person, and learn more about contemporary approaches to violin and bow making. On the evening of February 8, a salon-style concert will be presented by professional musicians, featuring instruments and bows from the exhibition. The performance is intended to provide context for how these instruments function in a concert setting. The event is open to professional players, collectors, educators, and others with an interest in contemporary instrument making.  Reserve Your Session Dates: February 7–10, 2026Location: LA Fine Violins, 225 S. Olive St. #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Saturday, February 7 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:00 PM Doors open 5:30 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Sunday, February 8 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 2:00 PM Exhibition Close 5:30 PM Doors open 6:00 PM Concert (Invitation Only) 7:00 PM Reception (Invitation Only Monday, February 9 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close Tuesday, February 10 2026 10:00 AM Exhibition Open 6:00 PM Exhibition Close   Accommodations:A special discounted rate is available at the Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza. For the promo code, please email admin@laviolinshop.com. Exhibition: Trial sessions are limited and available by advance registration only.Please reserve a session in advance to ensure dedicated time with the instruments and bows on display. We look forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles for this celebration of sound, craft, and contemporary artistry. La Forma del Suono 2026 E-Brochure    

    Read article