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Your Trusted Source for Fine Violins, Violas & Cellos in Rochester
At Payton Violins, we are dedicated to providing musicians with exceptional stringed instruments and services that elevate their craft. Our team of expert luthiers combines traditional techniques with modern acoustics to create violins, violas, and cellos renowned for their tonal quality and craftsmanship. We serve musicians of all levels, from beginners to professionals, offering personalized consultations, instrument rentals, repairs, and restorations. Our commitment to community extends beyond our shop through events, workshops, and partnerships that foster musical growth.

Located in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts, we pride ourselves on ethical practices, compassionate service, and ensuring every instrument leaves our care in optimal condition. With decades of combined experience, our team approaches each project with precision and care, ensuring instruments perform at their peak for generations to come.
Services
Violin Sales Viola Rentals Cello Repairs Bow Rehairing Instrument Appraisals
Highlights and features
  • We offer instruments crafted by award-winning makers from global workshops.
  • Our team includes luthiers with decades of experience in repairs and restorations.
  • We provide personalized consultations to match instruments to individual musical goals.
  • Our Rochester shop hosts community events and performance spaces for local musicians.
  • We guarantee trade-back options and free evaluations for customer confidence.
Payment methods
  • Cash, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments
What people say
Dark yet penetrating power First-rate luthier Unparalleled craftsmanship Trusted local service Exceptional sound adjustments
Services
Violin Sales
We offer a curated selection of violins ranging from contemporary originals to restored vintage instruments. Each violin undergoes rigorous acoustic evaluation to ensure superior sound quality and playability. Our inventory includes award-winning makers and workshop instruments tailored to students, amateurs, and professionals seeking precision and artistry.
Cello Repairs
Our expert luthiers specialize in cello repairs, from minor adjustments to full restorations. Using traditional techniques, we preserve historical integrity while enhancing tonal performance. Services include crack repairs, neck resets, and varnish restoration to ensure longevity and optimal playability for serious musicians.
Bow Rehairing
Professional bow rehairing services using premium materials to maintain balance and responsiveness. We service violin, viola, and cello bows, ensuring proper tension and playability. Our technicians address hair replacement, tip plate repairs, and frog adjustments to extend bow lifespan and performance.
Instrument Rentals
Flexible rental programs for students and emerging musicians. Our rental fleet includes properly set-up violins, violas, and cellos from trusted workshops. Rentals include maintenance support and upgrade options, ensuring accessible, high-quality instruments for beginners to intermediate players pursuing musical growth.
Tonal Adjustments
Precision tonal adjustments to enhance an instrument's acoustic properties. Our luthiers fine-tune soundposts, bridges, and bass bars to achieve desired tonal clarity and projection. This service caters to professionals seeking personalized sound characteristics and students aiming to maximize their instrument's potential.
Questions
What types of instruments do you sell?
We offer violins, violas, and cellos ranging from contemporary originals to restored vintage instruments, including options for students, amateurs, and professionals.
Do you provide instrument repair services?
Yes, we offer repairs including crack fixes, tonal adjustments, and full restorations performed by experienced luthiers using traditional techniques.
Are instrument rentals available?
We provide rental programs for violins, violas, and cellos with properly set-up instruments and upgrade options for developing musicians.
Do you host community music events?
Yes, our Rochester shop hosts concerts, masterclasses, and recording sessions to support local musicians and foster artistic collaboration in the community.
What is your trade-back guarantee?
Our Sound Investment Guarantee allows customers to trade back instruments with expert guidance and professional setup for confidence in purchases.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Betsy Kubick
Jan 13, 2023 Report
I recently had a bow repair and rehair done. Despite having just moved the previous weekend, they were able to complete the work in time for my performance that week. The work was done well and at a fair price. ( Work on instruments requires specialized materials and skills so it is never inexpensive.) I love the new location in the Anderson Arts building at 250 N Goodman St. It is beautifully set up and the staff was welcoming.

They had a spectacular array of instruments available. If you are in the market for a violin- family instrument, or need repair work done, I'd recommend that you consider them. As a bonus, they have the most adorable baby, who undoubtedly will be exposed to amazing music as she grows.
Anna Gasanova
Jun 11, 2022 Report
Best luthier in town! Sam created a new bridge for my viola and my viola is sounding amazing. Extremely knowledgable and the finest skls.
Mollie Ducoste
Feb 25, 2018 Report
I took in my violin for a last minute bridge replacement and was able to get it fixed within hours! Thanks:
Mark Rivet
Jan 28, 2018 Report
I called this place at 8:30 on a Friday with a violin string emergency. He not only answered, which no one in town did, but gave me two E strings for free. Give this man a hand for having OUTSTANDING customer service!