R L Ray Violin Shop

Specialties

Makers — Dealers — Restorers

Rare — Modern — Contemporary

Instrument & Bows

For Collectors– Professionals-​Students

We are a local shop with a national reputation for providing expert services to our clientel. We have had the opportunity to gain an in-​depth understanding of such instruments during periods of study in Europe and this insight inspires and characterizes our own work.

History

Established in 1999.

Robert L. Ray

«This business really grew out of a love for music, strings in particular and the musicians that play them. The study of the violin and of the bow became a lifelong passion.»

As the owner and operator of a busy violin shop Robert is constantly moving between tasks. In addition to managing the business he continues to make fine bows and perform the restoration of works by fine masters. His expertise has earned him the respect and camaraderie of his colleagues throughout the world.

AVA American Violin Alliance

Robert is a founding member of the AVA American Violin Alliance. He travels extensively throughout the world discovering talented makers and developing new products for the U.S. Marketplace. As well as being a member of the AVA, Robert is also an involved member of the IPCI, ASTA, WASTA and numerous other organizations. He dedicates himself to the education and preservation of our music culture.

«Our craft does not elevate us above the instrument and thos

Meet the Business Owner

Robert R.

Business Owner

In 1984 Robert began repairing violins and bows. By 1992 he directed his full attention to bows; including making, repair and their history. Robert spent the next seven years making bows and doing bow restoration. He has worked in the shops of David T. Stone Violins and Hans Weisshaar Inc, as well as restoring in his own shop for major dealers throughout the United States. In 1999 he formed a partnership with Georg Albeck, violin maker, in Olympia Washington. By 2001 Robert took full ownership of the shop. Through the years he has built an atelier with a world wide reputation. Robert travels throughout the world working with makers and dealers to provide the highest level of instruments and bows to our clientele. Players, collectors and dealers have come to rely on Roberts’ knowledge and expertise when acquiring or selling their instruments.