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The Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop

Bloomington, MN

The Paul A. Schmitt
Violin Shop

Expertly curated collection of student, intermediate and professional bench-made orchestral strings

Explore the Shop
Bass student with Niloofar

Our Process

Finding your next string instrument is a highly personal process. Our team of experts is ready to guide you on that journey.

  • Wide selection of violins, violas, cellos, bases and bows
  • Curated service provided by professional instrumentalists
  • Easy at-home trial process
  • Full service luthier team for adjustments and repairs
Contact the Violin Shop

Our Instruments

  • Advancing student Ellie Clarie 315

    The Advancing Student

    Students who are progressing in their string instrument studies may find their tone improves with the Lake City Ellie Claire or Eastman 315 models.

  • Intermediate instrument, Eastman Violin Stradivari

    Intermediate Instruments

    A varied selection of instruments from major and boutique makers, for the serious instrumentalist. Explore a variety of tonewoods and detailed craftsmanship at this level.

  • Anderson Folland Violin Scroll

    Bench-Made

    Custom tailored to your needs, bench made instruments by Peter Bingen, Marinos Glitsos, and others are available. Inquire for details.

Violin Shop at Schmitt Music Bloomington

The Cello Room

Violins, violas, cellos and upright bases. Shop a variety of instruments at all price points to find your next level of sound.

Our expansive selection of cellos includes instruments from Eastman Strings, Scott Cao, and bench made instruments like this one from Bieg Luthieri.

Take a look in the Cello Room

What are you interested in?

Violin Shop team, Josh and Niloofar

Meet the Team

Dr. Niloofar Sohi leads the Paul A. Schmitt Violin shop team, consisting of herself, Shop Manager Josh Peterson, and a workshop of full-service luthiers.

Get to know us

Testimonials

I simply want to say that we could not have been more pleased with Josh's demeanor, his knowledge, his playing, and his willingness to help us make a good decision for our grandson.

David and Judy Myers

Northampton, MA

Great experience at the violin shop at Bloomington Schmitt. Josh helped me get my bow fixed and went above and beyond to help me purchase another bow. Josh is super knowledgeable about string instruments and helped me weigh my options for both strings and a new bow.

Anonymous Customer

Google Review

Resources

Violinist recital

At-home Instrument
Trial Policy
Tyrolean 18 century viola violin

18th Century Craftsmanship
Violin strings

Shop Strings
Luthier Nick working on a cello

Our Luthiers

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Violin Shop

Do I need an appointment?

We strongly encourage making an appointment, so that our string specialists are available to work with you! This also allows us the opportunity to prepare a selection of instruments or bows in advance, providing the best possible experience. Guests are always welcome to browse during store hours without an appointment.

How do instrument trials work?

We offer in-store and at home instrument trials, shipped nationwide. Contact us to arrange your trial.

Processes and Policies

Do you offer financing?

Yes, a variety of financing options are available to fit everyone's needs. Please contact us to determine the best solution for you.

Do you buy used instruments?

We do not purchase used instruments, though we do offer consignment for professional-level instruments on a case-by-case basis.

Reach out to the Violin Shop