Benning Violins

06/01/2026

Nathan will be down in Morelos, Mexico this week volunteering his luthier skills for the Benning Academies. Along with Christian Fatu who will be teaching, giving master classes and performing. Should be an exciting week.

05/30/2026

Our May Newsletter is officially out! Inside, we take a look at a rare Florentine violin currently available, share some exciting workshop updates, and more!

Email from Benning Violins May Newsletter   Home Fine Instruments for Sale Services Benning Foundation About The Voice of the Florentine Enlightenment Discover a rare piece of 1765 history right here

05/30/2026

The end of the school year marks the season for rental returns. Whatever it takes to inspire I guess.

05/29/2026

Finished less than 24 hours before finding its home.

This new Balestrieri model was first played yesterday, and today it leaves the shop with the wonderful violinist Rosa Dobies of Texas. Rosa was one of the first serious players to spend time with the instrument, and hearing it come alive so immediately in the hands of a true musician was something special.

Every new violin teaches you something and this one had a depth, color, and immediacy that felt unmistakable from the beginning.

Grateful to Rosa for trusting my work, and excited to hear where this violin’s journey takes her next.

05/27/2026

The first notes on my new violin. Balestrieri model. So excited!!!

05/27/2026

I’m just about to string up my latest violin! Balestrieri model. The moment of truth.

05/27/2026

Congratulations to Daniel Harding on being named the next Music Director of the LA Phil. This is an exciting new chapter for one of the world’s great orchestras, and we look forward to seeing the artistry, energy, and vision he brings to Los Angeles.

05/23/2026

We are pleased to present this beautiful violin, by John Juzek for examination, trial and purchase.
This fine violin, made in Prague, Czechoslovakia, is a Testore-model that has been gracefully antiqued, giving it a timeless, elegant appearance. The violin features a stunning one-piece back and is finished in a warm golden-red varnish that beautifully showcases the natural beauty of the wood.
Possessing a powerful, rich tone and offering effortless playability, this violin responds easily throughout all registers, making it ideal for both students and experienced violinists. Currently in excellent condition, this instrument combines visual beauty with expressive and rich sound, reflecting the lasting craftsmanship and appeal of this maker's instruments.
CATALOG LINK in the Comments
This fine violin is available for examination and trial and has been meticulously set up to our exacting specifications before addition to our catalog. If you wish to inquire further about this violin, please contact us by calling 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.

05/23/2026

Looking to recycle some vintage Hill fittings on the latest Balestrieri model violin by Eric Benning. The advantages of having a 73 year old business is you have a lot of old things lying around. .E.Hill&Sons

05/22/2026

We are pleased to offer this fine cello bow crafted by bow maker Andre Lavoye for examination, trial and purchase.
Crafted from dark, red-brown pernambuco, this round stick offers a beautiful appearance and a well-balanced feel in the hand. The ebony frog is beautifully finished with large pearl eyes encircled by silver rings and a crisp facetted heel, giving it a distinctive presence. An ebony adjuster with two silver rings and a pearl end dot complements the silver-mounted fittings, while the silk and tinsel wrap with a goat-skin leather thumb grip adds both comfort and refinement.
On the string, this cello bow feels strong and confidently planted, giving the cellist a reassuring sense of control. It draws a full, rich tone with ease and remains stable through string crossings and dynamic changes. The response is smooth and reliable, making it easy to shape phrases while maintaining depth and consistency. Weight: 81.4 grams
CATALOG LINK in the COMMENTS 🎻
This fine cello bow is available for examination and trial and has been meticulously set up to our exacting specifications before addition to our catalog. If you wish to inquire further about this cello bow, please contact us by calling 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.