Get to know the Violin Shop Specialists

Josh Peterson is a Minnesota native and freelancing violist and violinist based in the Twin Cities and is the shop manager for the Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop. Josh holds a degree in Viola Performance from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. Although his background is rooted in classical music, he has been involved in different groups from folk, rock, jazz, and other genres. An active performer in the local music scene, you can find him playing with local folk-rock and chamber pop artists shows to symphonic orchestras around the Midwest. His experience in private teaching, ensemble coaching, and performing provides a versed background to assist clients' decisions on instruments, bows, and other related gear for string players.

Niloofar Sohi is a Persian violist and educator based in Minneapolis. She completed her Doctor of Musical Arts in viola performance at the University of Minnesota. Additionally, she holds the position of Director of String Sales at Schmitt Music Company. Niloofar's career highlights include performances in prestigious settings such as Le Vie Dell’Amicizia Ravenna-Tehran with maestro Riccardo Muti in Italy and performances with renowned groups at Carnegie Hall, Dallas Symphony Hall, and Chicago Symphony Hall. She has also gained extensive orchestral experience with renowned ensembles like the Minnesota Orchestra, South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, and Tehran Symphony Orchestra. Notably, Niloofar showcased her soloist abilities in the US premiere of Ruth Gipps' Jane Grey Fantasy with the Mississippi Valley Orchestra. Recently, she was featured in an interview and performance of the piece "From the Other Land" on Minnesota Public Radio. She has recorded albums such as "The Other Side" by Houshyar Khayam and "Unspoken Grievances" by Amin Honarmand. As a co-founder of LyreIran, she actively promotes strings-related performance and education content.