Cruz Violins & More

I came for a bow rehair and consultation on two violins. The price and quality for the rehair were as good as anything in LA. The owner is very knowledgeable and detail-​oriented and perceptively pointed out some small discrepancies in the measurements of both instruments that I hadn’t noticed, without trying to pressure me into further sales. He’s studied with luthiers of good repute and makes some very good violins himself that he sells — I tried two. Now that I’m finished studying at Juilliard and living in socal, I will definitely plan on visiting him regularly.

When I drove up, I wasn’t sure if it was even open. The door is solid steel, and it was hard to look in the window. I guess it’s to protect the instruments inside. But the sign with the hours said it was open, so I went in. I was looking to find a violin case and found myself talking to a very kind and knowledgeable gentleman (Mr Cruz?). Another customer came in while we were talking and, with a quick apology, he continued to answer my questions until I was able to find something in my price range that met my needs.
The shop is not very large, but they had just about everything you would need for violins –a few rows of violins and bows on every wall, music stands, a display case of shoulder rests and humidifiers, a small hallway of books, and a dresser of cleaner/​polish, mutes… it’s surprising what they could fit in there. I even saw a cello and some cello items. And there was a cute mini wooden violin magnet. I was tempted. The store has a nice «violin» smell, and I would guess that the whole back section is for violin repairs (that’s what the other customer was there for).
Being from Corona, none of the the music stores I went to had much for violins. I’m so happy I found a great place close to home. Highly recommended!