Approximately 6 months after launching my violin shop, I wanted to post an update about how things have been going and about some exciting recent developments!
First and foremost, I want to say THANK YOU
to all of the friends, family, customers, and supporters who have provided encouragement and referrals! I have met so many warm, wonderful people and have felt extremely welcomed by London's string community.
Since my launch I have provided instrument consultation and service to a diverse group of customers including string teachers (private as well as from schools and Western's Faculty of Music), students young and old, professional players and hobbyists! I've certainly been having fun - if you want to read about some of my customers' experiences, or you want to let others know about your own experience, please visit my Testimonials Page.
Collaboration with El Sistema Aeolian
Pioneered in Venezuela in 1975, El Sistema was an ambitious and wildly successful experiment in social engineering aimed at getting kids off the street by putting musical instruments in their hands. This triumphant focus on community development and social change through youth music education has spawned a global movement of Sistema-inspired programs. London Ontario is fortunate to have El Sistema Aeolian, which has been gaining momentum since 2011.
This from The Aeolian Hall website:
"In the program the orchestra embodies a community where each child is an essential member, so youth can develop to their full potential. In addition to developing musical skills, participants gain valuable social and life skills, including communication, problem-solving, and self-monitoring skills."
(to learn more visit the website HERE)
I think this is an absolutely brilliant initiative of immeasurable value to our community and I am excited to be involved with the set-up, adjustment, and repair services for the El Sistema Aeolian instruments.
Luthier-in-Residence at the NBSO Summer String Retreat
I am so honoured to have been invited to be Luthier-in-Residence at the fourth annual North Bay Symphony Orchestra Summer String Retreat. I look forward to making lots of new friends, experiencing some wonderful live music, and helping to educate about instrument care and health.
I love to meet new people, and I love the opportunity to examine and admire stringed instruments - so I am looking forward to spending some time with Retreat participants and helping them with any instrument issues so that they can get the most out of making music!
To my London customers: While I will be at the String Retreat from August 13 - 16, I will still be trying to answer phone calls and email correspondence to the best of my ability. I thank you for any patience that may be required during this time.
Please stay tuned for a future article about the String Retreat and my experience there - who knows, you may want to sign up next year!
Learn more about the North Bay Symphony Orchestra Summer String Retreat HERE.