Post by Katherine Silkaitis

Tucked among the old-world charm of Rittenhouse Square are two violin shops that keep alive an art founded – well, in the old world.

William Moennig & Son first opened in Philadelphia in 1909 and the intimate shop, housed in a quaint rowhouse, both sells and repairs violins, violas and cellos. Dick Donovan, a partner in the firm, said the business has always catered to serious players and professionals – it counts Yo Yo Ma, Sarah Chang and Nigel Kennedy among its patrons. It’s a bit off the beaten path, metaphorically speaking, since the shop accepts visitors by appointment only, and the lay person might feel a little lost among the music-steeped shop. But stepping inside, whatever modicum of musical knowledge one might have is duly impressed by the dedicated reception room. Cabinets of violas and violins line the walls, while miniature replications of Stradivarius’ workshops adorn the mantle. Throughout the building, walls are covered in headshots of various musicians and groups, many of them autographed.

Just blocks away, in a similarly understated storefront, is David Michie Violins. Opened 20 years ago by David Michie, the shop focuses on restoring, repairing and selling stringed instruments. Michie said its clientele ranges from members of the Philadelphia Orchestra to students of Temple University and the Curtis Institute of Music. However, Michie also devotes time to finding a beginning student the proper instrument. “I receive great satisfaction in helping children and families and finding the right instrument for them,” he explained. “I like to see the excitement on the kids’ faces and decades from now, they might remember receiving their first violin from here.”

William Moennig & Son
2039 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

David Michie Violins
1714 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19103