I think I’ve got a Stradivarius, do I?

Probably not. Many instruments are copies of the old masters. Your instrument might bear a label inside that says ‘Stradivarius’ or something like it. However, it is actually a copy of a Stradivarius violin model. If you are curious about the value of an instrument that you own, please book an appointment for an instrument valuation, here.

How do you value an instrument?

Valuing instruments isn’t easy. If it’s an instrument by a maker that we haven’t seen before it can take some time to confirm it’s provenance. If it is a maker that we know then it can be quite a quick process. We use a combination of factors to come up with a valuation; quality of materials used, build quality, makers reputation, previous sale prices (if available). For complex and high value instruments we consult a team of world class experts before reaching a decision regarding provenance and value. If you are curious about the value of an instrument that you own, please book an appointment for an instrument valuation, here.

Do I need an appointment to visit the store?

The simple answer is no, you do not need an appointment to come and visit our shop. However, customers with appointments will take priority. If you need an appointment that relates to our workshop, either repairing or maintaining your instrument or bow, it would be best if you did make an appointment to make sure that our restorers are aware that you’ll be coming in! If you’d like to book an appointment, please do so, here.

How can I contact your Edinburgh Shop?

Our sister shop, based in Edinburgh has its own website www.stringersmusic.com. You can also purchase instruments and accessories online, via their website. Please note that although we share a name, we are two seperate companies.

Is your rental scheme a ‘hire-to-buy’ scheme?

Our rental scheme is not a rent to own scheme. Three months rent is payable on the day you take the instrument. After that period the instrument can either be returned or the hire can continue by monthly direct debit. Have a look at our rental contract, here.

Do you have parking facilities?

We have four parking spaces directly out side the front of our shop. You will have to mount the curb which is about 12cm high. There is also street parking available but it is paid parking Monday through to Friday. There are a few spots in the surrounding area that have free parking on the weekend. If you need a parking space for your appointment please let us know and we will reserve a space for you. At all other times, parking is first come first serve.

Are you in the congestion zone?

No, we are close to the congestion zone, but not actually inside it.

What is rosin and do I need it?

Rosin is a by product of tree sap that is rubbed onto the hair on your bow to create a sticky surface. This in turn creates friction between the hairs on your bow and the strings on your instrument, thus creating vibrations and finally creating the sound you hear when you play! Every bow needs to be rosined semi-regularly. A cake of rosin will last a very long time so although you will need to purchase rosin, it will last you a while (unless you drop it)! For more information on the different types of rosin available, please read our blog post on the topic.

What is a shoulder rest and do I need one?

A shoulder rest is an accessory that attaches to the bottom of your violin or viola that makes holding the instrument on your shoulder much more comfortable and secure. They are used by 95% of all modern players, especially beginners. For more information on the different types of shoulder rest available, please read our blog post on the topic.

My instrument keeps going out of tune, is something wrong?

Instruments will go out of tune over time. The strings and the pegs are subject to shrink/expand due to atmospheric condition changes like heat and humidity, changes in these variables will cause instruments to go out of tune. You may find that during seasonal changes, winter to spring for example, your pegs may slip more than normal. If you are finding that your instrument is slightly out of tune when taking it out of its case, this is normal, instruments, more often than not, will need to be tuned every time you play them. If you are finding that you can’t turn the pegs without them slipping, give us a call and we can go through some tips to help keep the pegs in place. If this still doesn’t work, you may need new pegs.