Business Details
38 Years
experience
Expert Cello Sales & Repair in Berlin, VT
Paul Perley Cellos has been dedicated to providing high-quality string instruments and personalized service since 1988. Founded by Paul and Melissa Perley, both accomplished cellists and educators, our shop specializes in the sales, repair, and restoration of cellos, violins, violas, and double basses. With over 70 years of combined experience, we pride ourselves on understanding the unique needs of musicians at every level. Our expertise extends to meticulous setup and adjustment services, which clients from across New England and beyond seek out for tonal improvement. We offer instruments in all price ranges, ensuring accessibility while maintaining exceptional craftsmanship. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our guarantee against defects and our willingness to facilitate trials for remote customers.Located in Central Vermont, we serve a global clientele through nationwide shipping and virtual consultations. Our team includes skilled luthiers like Thurmond and Robinson Morse, whose craftsmanship ensures every instrument meets our rigorous standards. Beyond instruments, we provide cello lessons, including innovative Skype programs, and publish educational resources like Melissa Perleys award-winning childrens book, *The Violin Family*. Our dedication to preserving musical heritage is evident in our restoration of historic German cellos, some of which have even performed at the White House. We remain a family-owned business, deeply rooted in Vermonts community, while connecting musicians worldwide with instruments that inspire creativity and endure for generations.
Services
Cello Sales
Cello Repair
Cello Restoration
Cello Lessons
Consignment
Baroque Conversion
Shipping Services
Setup & Adjustment
Accessories Sales
Music Publishing
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in cello sales and restoration.
- Our setup and adjustment services are second to none.
- We offer instruments in all price ranges.
- We provide free shipping to all 50 states and Canada.
- Our work is guaranteed against any issues.
What people say
Excellent condition
Stunning varnish
Warm, focused sound
Prompt personal attention
Terrific teachers
Services
Cello Sales
We offer a diverse inventory of cellos, violins, violas, and double basses, ranging from entry-level to rare, historic instruments. Each cello is carefully evaluated for sound quality and craftsmanship, ensuring options for every skill level and budget. Our team provides expert guidance to help clients find instruments that align with their artistic goals and financial considerations.
Cello Repair
Our repair services address everything from minor adjustments to major restorations, performed by experienced luthiers with decades of combined expertise. We specialize in tonal improvements and structural repairs, using traditional techniques to preserve an instrument's integrity. Clients receive detailed consultations to determine the best approach for restoring playability and sound quality.
Cello Restoration
We restore vintage and antique cellos, including German models from the 1880s1960s, to their original playing condition while maintaining historical authenticity. Our process includes graduated plate adjustments, varnish preservation, and structural reinforcement. Restored instruments are guaranteed for performance and durability, with many surpassing modern counterparts in sound quality.
Cello Lessons
Private and Skype lessons are available for students of all levels, from beginners to advanced players preparing for conservatory programs. Instruction emphasizes technical mastery, musical expression, and injury prevention, drawing on decades of teaching and performance experience. Virtual lessons provide flexibility for remote learners without compromising educational quality.
Consignment
We accept consignment cellos, particularly older European and American models valued between $2,000 and $40,000, offering competitive commission rates and fast turnover. Sellers receive expert evaluations and marketing support to ensure their instruments reach qualified buyers. Our reputation for fair pricing attracts a steady stream of collectors and musicians seeking high-quality used instruments.
People
Paul Perley
Owner/Luthier
Paul Perley is a master luthier and performing cellist with over 30 years of experience. He studied under renowned craftsmen Hans Nebel and Horst Kloss, specializing in cello restoration and tonal enhancement. His expertise ensures every instrument meets rigorous acoustic and structural standards.
Melissa Perley
Owner/Cello Teacher
Melissa Perley is a performing cellist and educator who personally tests every cello in the shop. She teaches students of all levels and authored the award-winning children's book *The Violin Family*. Her insights into player needs inform the shop's customer-centric approach.
Thurmond
Luthier
Thurmond is a skilled luthier with decades of experience in string instrument repair and restoration. His craftsmanship contributes to the shop's reputation for high-quality work, particularly in structural repairs and setup adjustments for professional musicians.
Robinson Morse
Luthier/Jazz Bassist
Robinson Morse combines luthier expertise with a background in jazz performance. He specializes in bass restoration and contributes creative insights to the shop's approach to instrument acoustics. His dual expertise ensures repairs enhance both playability and tonal richness.
Questions
What services does Paul Perley Cellos offer?
We specialize in cello sales, repair, restoration, and lessons. Additional services include consignment, baroque conversions, and shipping nationwide.
Do you offer virtual cello lessons?
Yes, we provide Skype lessons for remote students, with flexible scheduling and personalized instruction for all skill levels.
Are your instruments guaranteed?
All instruments are guaranteed against defects. We also offer trial periods for remote purchases.
Do you ship internationally?
We ship to all 50 U.S. states and Canada. International shipping is available upon request for select items.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept phone or email orders with payment arrangements discussed directly for secure transactions.
Reviews (1)
B. C.
Sep 15, 2021
Report
The owners, Paul and Melissa are very kind, honest and very knowledgeable about bowed string instruments, (violin, cello, viola, bass) and have been in business for over 30 years. Contact them if you are looking for an instrument, need restoration, or in need of a repair. They helped me pick out my very first cello and I am extremely satisfied with the personal attention I received.
