The Bench
Half of Houston's String Teachers Send Their Students Here.
Much of Philip's work has always come through teachers — they know what a properly set up student instrument does for a beginner, and they know he'll size a child correctly instead of selling up. He has worked with school programs for decades and specializes in restoring and repairing children's instruments, including the ones that have been through three siblings already.
What This Covers
Student & School Instrument Service
Correct sizing for children — 1/16 through 4/4, fitted to the child, not guessed
Repair and restoration of student violins, violas, cellos and basses
Setup work that makes a beginner instrument genuinely playable
Service for school orchestra programs and their instrument inventories
Teacher referrals — Philip keeps a list of private teachers across the Houston area
Honest guidance for parents on when to step up to a bigger or better instrument
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What size violin does my child need?
It's measured, not guessed — from the neck to the palm or wrist with the arm extended, and it depends on the child's arm length rather than their age. A violin that's too large makes good technique impossible and turns practice into a fight. Bring your child in and Philip will size them in a few minutes.
Should I rent or buy for a beginner?
For a young child who will outgrow the instrument in a year or two, renting usually makes more sense. For an older beginner who has stopped growing, or a student who's clearly committed, buying often works out better. Philip does both and will talk it through with your situation rather than pushing one.
Do you work with school orchestra programs?
Yes — Philip has done school work for decades and much of the shop's business has always come through directors and private teachers. Call the shop to talk about a program's instrument inventory.
Can you recommend a violin teacher?
Yes. Philip keeps a list of private teachers from all parts of Houston and matches families to a teacher near where they live. Customers have been asking him for this for decades — just ask when you're in the shop.
My child's school instrument is damaged. Can you fix it?
Almost certainly. Student instruments come in with cracked tops, open seams, snapped bridges, missing pegs and sound posts rattling around inside — all of it routine. Restoring and repairing children's instruments is something Philip specifically specializes in.
Also at the Shop
Other Ways Philip Can Help
Instrument Rentals
Violin, viola and cello rentals in Houston for beginners and growing students. Properly sized, properly set up, serviced by the shop. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreSetup, Sound Post & Bridge Fitting
Sound post fitting, bridge cutting, string changes and full setup in Houston. The adjustments that decide how your instrument actually plays. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreViolin, Viola, Cello & Bass Repair
Expert violin, viola, cello and bass repair in Houston. Cracks, seams, pegs, bridges, sound posts and full restoration — by hand, by a luthier since 1975. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreViolins, Violas, Cellos & Basses for Sale
A deep selection of violins, violas, cellos and basses for sale in Houston — student through professional, every budget. Try them in the shop. (713) 729-2231.
Learn moreGet Started
Starting a Child on Strings?
Bring them in. Philip will size them properly and, if you need one, point you to a teacher near you.