George Withers 4/4 Vintage Violin

Product Information

An exciting and very attractive violin with a striking choice of wood for the back and scroll, this instrument is very responsive and has a vibrantly active timbre. A perfect blend between French temperament and British style, this Violins striking feature is the figure of the back plate. It is a two-piece back of quarter cut maple with a high flamed figure descending slightly from the center joint. The ribs and head are of similar wood. The top plate is of mirrored two-piece spruce with medium even width grain, broadening towards the edges.

George Withers – Violin Maker

George Withers (1847–1931) was a distinguished English violin maker, renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and contribution to the British lutherie tradition. Born into a family of violin makers, he was the son of Edward Withers (I) and brother to Edward Withers (II). In 1878, George established his own workshop at 51 St. Martin's Lane, London, before relocating to 22 Leicester Square.

His violins, often modeled after the works of Stradivari and Guarneri, are celebrated for their fine materials and meticulous workmanship. The varnish, typically a golden-yellow to red-brown hue, enhances both the aesthetic and acoustic qualities of his instruments.

George Withers' legacy is furthered by his sons, Guarnerius and Walter, who joined him in the family business, leading to the establishment of George Withers & Sons. This firm continued the tradition of producing high-quality string instruments, solidifying the Withers name in the annals of English violin making.

Professional Set-Up

At Bridge Street Violins, we offer a comprehensive professional setup that goes above and beyond the basic factory setup provided by most other shops. Each violin is carefully adjusted by our expert luthier to ensure optimal sound and playability. Depending on the instrument, this setup may include:

• Peg adjustment

• Fingerboard resurfacing (if necessary)

• Top nut adjustment

• Sound post and bridge fitting

• String height adjustments

• Tailored settings for enhanced playing comfort

This service ensures your violin is fully prepared for high-quality performance, tailored to your individual needs. It’s a level of care that sets us apart from other retailers who typically offer a basic factory setup.

How Long Will It Take to Arrive?

In Stock: This is a vintage violin, and we take great care in ensuring it is in excellent condition before dispatch. Your instrument will be inspected and prepared for shipping within 2 working days. If any delays are expected, we will contact you as soon as possible.

Postage Options

Once your violin has been set up to perfection, we offer the following delivery options:

• Free Local Collection: You are welcome to collect your instrument free of charge from our workshop near Lincoln.

• UK Delivery: We’ll dispatch your violin anywhere in the UK, with a postage charge applied at checkout.

• International Delivery: We are happy to arrange international shipping. Please get in touch for an individual quote.

Violin Care Tips

To keep your violin in great condition and ensure it maintains its best sound, we recommend the following care tips:

• Storage: Always store your violin in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can affect the wood.

• Cleaning: Clean your violin regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and rosin build-up. Be careful not to touch the varnish with your fingers.

• String Care: Check your strings for wear and replace them when necessary. Avoid over-tightening the strings, as this can cause unnecessary stress on the instrument.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need assistance at any point during your purchase or after receiving your violin, our team is here to help. Whether you have inquiries about delivery, setup, or care, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.

FAQ