Founded in 1988 by Paul Strelau, the shop has grown through decades of dedication to the craft. Today, it thrives under the leadership of Justin Rister—a skilled technician and lifelong musician who brings both precision and passion to every instrument that hits the bench. With over 50 years of combined experience behind the scenes, the shop continues to evolve while staying true to its roots in expert setup, service, and sound.

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.

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.

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.