A Shop Built for Musicians, By Musicians
For over 30 years, Stringed Instrument Services has been a trusted part of the Rochester music community. What began in 1988 as a small shop has grown into a full-service destination for string players of every level—students, teachers, hobbyists, and pros alike.
We’re luthiers, musicians, and technicians who care about the details. From thoughtful rentals to honest repairs, every part of our work is shaped by a deep understanding of how string instruments feel, function, and sound.
What we offer
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We offer repairs for all string family instruments, with honest evaluations, free estimates, and options that respect your budget and playing needs.
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Available by the month, school year, or annually, our rentals are a great fit for players at any level—from beginners to professionals.
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Our shop carries new, used, and consignment instruments, bows, and cases—along with a curated selection of strings, rosin, tuners, method books, and other must-have accessories for players at any level.
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Bow Rehairs
All bow rehairs are done in-house by our trained bow technician using high-quality materials and trusted methods—no shipping out, no long wait times.Pickup Installs & Upgrades
Need to amplify your sound or upgrade your gear? We install a variety of pickups and specialty components to suit your needs and playing style.Bass Repair & Support
Many shops don’t work on upright basses due to their size and complexity—but we do. From basic setups to full overhauls, our team is experienced in the unique demands of the bass. We also offer rentals for beginners and intermediate players, along with expert services for advancing and professional musicians.
Why musicians trust us
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Founded in 1988 by Paul Strelau, the shop has grown through decades of dedication to the craft. Today, our team is comprised of skilled technicians and lifelong musicians who bring both precision and passion to every instrument that hits the bench. With over 60 years of combined experience behind the scenes, the shop continues to evolve while staying true to its roots in expert setup, service, and sound.
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Whether you're getting your first rental, a quick repair, or restoring an instrument that’s been in the family for years, we take the time to walk you through the process—in plain language, at your pace. Just real help, from people who get it.
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Music has the power to transform lives, and we’re dedicated to making sure every young musician in the Rochester community has the support they need to thrive. Through partnerships with local schools and music programs, we provide expert instrument maintenance and repairs—helping to remove obstacles that might keep children from playing. Our commitment extends beyond service; we actively contribute instruments and time to after-school and extracurricular programs, fostering a culture where music is accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances.
At the heart of our mission is a belief that nurturing musical talent enriches our entire community. By investing in quality instruments and offering support wherever it’s needed, we aim to empower the next generation of players and ensure that the joy of making music is within reach for every child.
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Our bow technician Jim Greer is one of the most trusted in the region. With advanced training from the Violin Craftsmanship Institute and Violin Society of America workshops, Jim provides precision rehairs and repairs—always done right here in the shop.
"To play a wrong note is insignificant. to play without passion is inexcusable."
- ludwig van beethoven