Singapore is a global hub of culture and commerce, and its vibrant music scene is no exception. Whether you’re a beginner looking to purchase your first violin or a professional violin shop Singapore musician seeking a top-tier instrument, the city has a range of violin shops that cater to all levels of expertise. From established stores with decades of experience to specialized boutiques offering high-end, hand-crafted violins, Singapore boasts a diverse selection of violin retailers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best violin shops in Singapore, offering insights into their offerings, services, and what makes each one unique.
1. The Violin Shop Singapore
Located in the heart of Singapore, The Violin Shop is one of the most trusted names for both violin beginners and seasoned professionals. Established in 1981, this family-run business has gained a reputation for its wide selection of violins, violas, cellos, and basses. The shop caters to musicians of all levels, from those taking their first steps in music to professionals who require top-quality instruments.
Why Visit?
The Violin Shop Singapore offers a broad range of violins, from student models to professional-grade instruments crafted by renowned luthiers. Beginners can choose from affordable, high-quality student violins that provide excellent value for money. For more experienced players, the shop has an impressive collection of premium violins, many of which are imported from Europe and crafted by master luthiers.
Besides violins, the store also provides a wide selection of bows, strings, cases, and accessories, making it a one-stop shop for everything a violinist might need. The knowledgeable staff at The Violin Shop are passionate about music and can offer valuable advice to help customers make informed decisions.
Key Offerings:
- Violins for all skill levels
- Accessories such as cases, strings, and bows
- Expert repairs and maintenance services
- Rental services for students
2. Swee Lee
Swee Lee is one of Singapore’s most famous names in the music industry. Founded in 1948, it’s a household name for musicians looking for musical instruments, ranging from pianos to electric guitars and everything in between. The company has a strong presence in Singapore’s music scene and carries a wide range of string instruments, including violins.
Why Visit?
While Swee Lee is more widely known for its guitars and other stringed instruments, the store also has an impressive selection of violins from trusted brands. For beginners, Swee Lee offers affordable entry-level violins that are perfect for students starting their musical journey. The shop also carries intermediate and professional violins, with a variety of bows, cases, and accessories available as well.
Swee Lee’s knowledgeable staff provide expert advice on choosing the right violin, and their repair and maintenance services ensure that your instrument stays in top condition.
Key Offerings:
- A variety of violins from beginner to professional levels
- Comprehensive selection of accessories
- Violin repair services
- Music lessons and workshops
3. Stradivari Strings
For professional musicians or those looking for high-end, artisanal violins, Stradivari Strings is a must-visit. Specializing in rare and high-quality violins, this boutique store caters to musicians who want a truly exceptional instrument. With a focus on hand-crafted violins made by renowned luthiers, Stradivari Strings stands out for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
Why Visit?
Stradivari Strings offers violins from some of the best-known names in the violin-making world, including instruments from Europe’s finest luthiers. Whether you are looking for a violin made in Cremona, Italy, or a custom-made instrument, Stradivari Strings has something for serious musicians.
The store also provides bow repairs, instrument setups, and expert advice, making it a go-to destination for professional violinists seeking top-notch service and instruments. The atmosphere at Stradivari Strings is intimate, with knowledgeable staff ready to assist with your every need.
Key Offerings:
- High-end violins and string instruments
- Expert consultations and fittings
- Instrument repair and restoration services
- String instrument accessories
4. The String Shop
A small yet reputable shop in Singapore, The String Shop has made a name for itself by offering an impressive range of violins and string instruments at competitive prices. While it might not have the same extensive selection as some of the larger stores, it’s a favorite among local musicians due to its personal touch and exceptional customer service.
Why Visit?
The String Shop focuses on providing violins that cater to the needs of both beginners and intermediate players. They offer affordable student violins, along with higher-quality instruments for more advanced players. The shop prides itself on having a team that’s deeply passionate about string instruments, ensuring that each customer receives personalized advice and guidance.
One of the standout features of The String Shop is their repair and setup services. They are well-known for their attention to detail when it comes to fixing and adjusting violins, making sure that every instrument sounds its best.
Key Offerings:
- Violins and string instruments for all levels
- Personalized service and advice
- High-quality repairs and setups
- Strings, cases, and other accessories
5. Bach & Before
While not exclusively a violin shop, Bach & Before is a hidden gem for violinists and string musicians in Singapore. Specializing in early music instruments, this shop offers a curated selection of violins, violas, and cellos, focusing on historically accurate replicas and early instrument restorations.
Why Visit?
If you are a professional musician or a collector looking for historical instruments or baroque violins, Bach & Before is the place to go. Their collection includes rare instruments from the Baroque period, as well as period-appropriate bows and accessories. Bach & Before is the perfect place for musicians looking to explore the early history of the violin or even take on a new challenge with historically inspired instruments.
The store also provides restoration and preservation services for antique violins and other string instruments, ensuring that their clients’ precious instruments are kept in top condition.
Key Offerings:
- Historical and Baroque violins
- Rare string instruments and accessories
- Instrument restoration and preservation services
- Specialized advice for musicians seeking period instruments
6. Kohler & Partner
Kohler & Partner is a respected name in the Singapore music scene, particularly known for its selection of high-end violins and string instruments. The shop prides itself on offering instruments that are not only aesthetically beautiful but also exceptional in sound and quality.
Why Visit?
Kohler & Partner is an excellent choice for professional violinists who are looking for precision-crafted instruments. They offer violins from both contemporary and historical makers, as well as bows, strings, and other accessories. For professionals, the shop’s in-depth knowledge of fine violins and ability to offer bespoke instruments is unmatched.
Whether you are looking for a high-end investment violin or seeking expert advice on upgrading your current instrument, Kohler & Partner delivers top-tier service and an exceptional range of products.
Key Offerings:
- Premium violins and string instruments
- Personalized consultations for professional musicians
- Access to bespoke, hand-crafted instruments
- String instrument accessories
7. Lee’s Violin Studio
As the name suggests, Lee’s Violin Studio specializes in providing violins for students and beginners, but it also offers a curated selection of violins for intermediate and advanced players. It’s a great option for those who are just beginning their violin journey and need expert guidance on choosing the right instrument.
Why Visit?
Lee’s Violin Studio provides a warm, welcoming environment where beginners can feel comfortable exploring different violins. The store focuses on helping students find an instrument that suits their playing style and budget. In addition to violins, Lee’s Violin Studio also offers rental services, making it easier for parents and students to try out an instrument before committing to a purchase.
The shop’s commitment to education is evident in the fact that it offers violin lessons and a series of workshops for all ages and skill levels.
Key Offerings:
- Violins for beginners and intermediate players
- Rental options for students
- Violin lessons and workshops
- Expert guidance for selecting your first violin
Conclusion
Singapore is home to a diverse range of violin shops that cater to musicians of all levels. Whether you’re just starting your musical journey, upgrading your instrument, or seeking a rare, handcrafted violin for professional performances, you’ll find something that meets your needs in this vibrant city. From well-established stores like The Violin Shop Singapore and Swee Lee, to boutique specialists like Stradivari Strings and Bach & Before, the city offers a wealth of options for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
No matter where you choose to shop, each of these stores provides expert advice, a wide range of violins, and a dedication to helping you find the perfect instrument to match your musical goals. So, whether you are a beginner or a professional, you can trust that Singapore’s violin shops have something for you.