Bow Rehairing

Most professional violinists will say without hesitation that the quality of their bow is as important as the instrument they play. The playing characteristics of the bow can be dramatically affected by the quality of the hair and the manner in which it is rehaired. A fine bow, when rehaired correctly, can last indefinitely giving the player a lifetime of service.

Bow rehairing is as much an art as it is a skill. I have been rehairing bows for over 25 years. I completed bow making courses at the Violin Craftsman Institute at the University of New Hampshire studying with William Salchow, master bow maker, New York, N.Y. My current customers include members of the Virginia Symphony, the Richmond Symphony and Symphonicity - The Symphony Orchestra of Virginia Beach.

Only the finest white Mongolian stallion horsehair is used for violin, viola and cello bow rehairing. I offer salt and pepper and black hair for bass bows. All wedges are hand cut and fitted to the mortices in the frog and head. The correct amount of hair is determined for each bow by gauging the width of the ferrule, the width of the head and the strength of the stick. The hair is spaced evenly across the ferrule and tensioned for optimal playability.

A standard bow rehair includes cleaning the stick, polishing all metal, and lubricating the screw and eyelet. Other work such as replacing faceplates, bow windings and thumb leathers can be performed at additional charge.

Out of Area Shipping

If you reside outside of the Virginia Beach area you may ship your bow to our shop for rehairing. I will perform the necessary work and send the bow back to you via UPS. The total charge is $50 for violin or viola bows, $55 for cello bows, $60 for bass bow plus the UPS charge and tax. The UPS charge will vary with distance and the amount of insurance requested. The bow will be shipped back in a sturdy reusable container. Please call for more information.