Frequently Asked Questions
Who We Are
Violin Parts Trader is an online community of instrument lovers working to extend the life of valuable string instruments that have been irreparably damaged but may still contain parts that can be reused in other similar instruments.
What We do
There are many valuable instruments from well-known makers that cannot be repaired due to damage to some part of the instrument. In many cases the damaged instrument may contain parts that still function or can be used in/within similar instruments.
Instead of writing off the damaged instrument completely, Violin Parts Trader attempts to bring the makers work back to life by locating an instrument that can make use of the usable valuable parts. This
- Adds to the value of the repaired instrument
- Prevents the maker’s work from disappearing
- Extends the life of valuable instruments – can be used and enjoyed longer
- Maintains a vibrant community of instrument makers/repairers through discussion and exchange of knowledge and techniques that were used to create these beautiful instruments.
How it works
Seller Section
As an owner of a valuable part, register yourself on Violin Parts Trader and list the instruments and/or parts that you have available. Depending on the item/part, you may need to provide its associated history as well as any documentation proving its heritage/value. In the case of a piece from a renowned maker or valuable instrument, you may need to have the item examined and verified by a reputable violin shop.
Once posted on Violin Parts Trader network, interested parties will be alerted to the availability of the part and may contact you for more information leading to a new “home” for the item.
Buyer Section
As a buyer, register yourself on Violin Parts Trader and put a request for a particular part that you are looking for. If you add yourself to the RSS feed of the part category that you are interested in, alerts will be sent to you once any parts are posted in that particular category. If you are a luthier or a violin shop, we recommend visiting the Violin Parts Trader website regularly to familiarize yourself with items getting posted. You may find just the part that you’ve been looking for and may be able to restore a valuable piece.
Membership Types
There are three types of membership in the Violin Parts Trader community.
Public Membership
This is a free membership that allows access to all the instrument parts (available and wanted)posted by registered temporary members. It may also include some items that have been made available by Trade Members. A Public Membership does not permit the posting of notices or ads on the Violin Parts Trader network.
Temporary Membership
This is a 90 day membership with unlimited posting privileges (Available and Wanted) for anyone who has parts or is looking for parts. The Temporary Membership gives the member access to most of the instrument parts that have been posted or requested (excluding the Trade Members area).
Trade Membership
This is an annual membership primarily for those in the instrument-making/repairing industry and is normally by invitation only. The Trade members include luthiers, violin shops, instrument collectors, auction houses etc. The Trade Membership gives the member access to all the instrument parts that have been posted or requested including the “Trade Members” area where reputable violin shops and luthiers can share knowledge and post items targeting other shops/luthiers (B2B).