Directed by Stewart Pollens, one of the world’s leading musical instrument conservators and violin authorities, Violin Advisor, LLC is a consulting firm that advises musicians, collectors, institutions, and investors on the acquisition of fine violins.

Violin Advisor LLC has no affiliation with any dealership; rather, we offer a wide range of services, including:

· Instrument selection for musicians, investors, collectors, and institutions

· Evaluation of buyer-selected instruments, including tonal and performance evaluation

· Condition and damage reports for appraisals and insurance claims

· Scientific dating and material analysis

· Technical documentation and photography for certificates and publication

· Conservation

· Collection management

· Investment enhancement through public relations, publication, and loan of instruments to distinguished soloists, orchestras, and non-profit institutions such as conservatories and museums

Violin made by Petrus Guarnerius of Venice in 1742.  You are hearing this violin in an excerpt from Ravel's "Tzigane." Used regularly in concerts by a well-known soloist, this instrument was appraised at $40,000 in 1980 and at $425,000 in 2004.