Holstein violins are some of the most popular instruments sold at Fiddlershop. When browsing these violins, you may wonder what sets them apart, and why the prices are different.
What do the names traditional, workshop, and bench mean?
These names reflect the quality of the instrument. Traditional is the base model, Workshop is in the middle, and Bench is the highest quality. Premium bench is also available for some models - these stand out as the finest among the Holstein violins.
What is the difference between them?
The two main differences are the quality of the wood, and the level of craftsmanship. Select aged woods are evaluated and separated by quality, with the finest woods being used for the bench instruments. Traditional instruments are hand-made by a small group of 3-6 luthiers. Workshop instruments are made by one luthier, then finished and varnished by another. Bench instruments are made from start to finish by one master luthier. Premium bench violins are made using the very best aged tone woods, and the attention to detail is much higher.
Where do the names come from?
Holstein violins are replicas of some of the world's finest instruments. Many of these violins earn nicknames over time, usually named after a notable owner of the instrument. For example, the "il Cannone" violin was made in 1743 by Guarneri Del Gesù. This instrument was owned by Nicolò Paganini, who referred to his favorite violin as the canon due to its powerful sound.
Check out our "il Cannone" replicas in each level- Traditional, Workshop, Bench, Premium Bench.
Some other popular Holstein replica violins include the Traditional Red Mendelssohn, Workshop Soil Stradivarius, and Premium Bench David. You can read about the history of each violin on their product pages.
