Hey all!
I'm in need of some repairs on my fiddle, and I havnt taken my violin to anyone here in ATL yet. I live in Midtown, and have heard good things about both the Voss and Gengakki workshops. I'm in need of a bridge, and one quoted $90 and the other wants $160. Personally, I've never paid over $100 for a bridge, and I was wondering if anyone has used either of the Luthiers and if the nearly 2x price from one or the other is reputable?
I have used Stephanie Voss for several bow rehairs from 2006 to 2009 and once for a fingerboard repair 5 or 6 years ago. She's honest, quick, and does a good job. Most importantly she is honest. There are a lot of shops only interested in making a buck.
I know some people like Reggie Williams, and I know some people hate Reggie Williams. I can't say if he does a good job or not, because I have never used him. I have heard horror stories of people getting ripped off at Williams-Gengakki.
I would recommend Boguslaw Kieta, assuming you are looking for a third option. His website is http://www.violinatlanta.com/index.php if you want to see his contact info.
Stephanie Voss and Pablo Alfaro both initially came to Atlanta to do repair work at Gengaki- both left and flourish on their own! Never heard anyone complain about business ethics of either one of them. Stephanie's close intown, Pablo's not- out in Decatur. Pablo won overall Gold Medal (Bob Wallace Award) at VMAAI in 2009.
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April 2, 2011 at 10:14 AM ·
I use Regie and the folks at his shop exclusively. They are trustworthy, ethical, and their work is top-notch. I have also found the services they provide an excellent value (although I have never had them cut a bridge for me).