Supporting musicians with fine violins and repairs.
The care of your stringed instrument in the expert hands of John Ferwerda, a prize-winning, certified luthier from the Mittenwald School of Violin Making.
How John can help
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Repairs
Expert setups, fast, high-quality repairs and decades of restoration mastery. More about repairs
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Valuations
We need to see the instrument firsthand. Every valuation includes a certificate. $250. More about valuations
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Instruments for sale
Fine violins, violas and bows, each with its story and a video of John. See what is available
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Commissioning
John has made over 100 instruments and likes to discuss your aspirations before the work begins. Violin from $18,000. More about commissioning
Instruments for sale
A few of the many instruments in the workshop.
Boshuvlav Lantern Violin 1910
Behind the exquisite varnish and intricate designs, a tale of love, craftsmanship and mystery awaits. Discover the fascinating story of how this stunning instrument was reborn from a masterpiece to a work of art. What secrets will it reveal?
John Ferwerda Viola 1971
Today, we’re excited to present a viola crafted by John Ferwerda himself during his time in Adelaide in 1971.
Giovanni Trinelli Violin 1924
John Ferwerda presents a stunning Italian violin by Giovanni Trinelli, crafted in Milan, a city rich in musical heritage. Despite frequent use, its flawless finish remains unmarred, showcasing its timeless beauty. John's passion is evident as he invites you to admire this remarkable instrument.
Come and try them
Choosing an instrument is a personal thing. John picks a small range for you to try and play, in the workshop or at your place.
About John
Violin World is dedicated to quality workmanship, specialising in preservation, repairs, restoration, new making and the sale of fine instruments.
Customers are encouraged to follow the making of their instrument from start to finish and visit the workshop during construction.
Schools get discounted pricing for sales, repairs and maintenance, with personal pickup and delivery.
From the workshop
Violin & Bow Care – The Essential Checklist Every Musician Should Know
Keeping your instrument in top shape isn't just about sounding your best, it's about protecting your investment and avoiding costly repairs down the line.
What is it like to play in a professional orchestra?
Have you ever wondered what makes orchestras so special? In this post, we’re exploring the magic of making music together in orchestras and as a community! 🎶
Difference between handcrafted and machine made violin
Discover the pros and cons of trade instruments, handmade professionals and factory-made options.
What customers say
Reviews from Google. Scroll for more.
Went there for the first to get my antique violin restoration. His work is probably worth much more than what he changed me. ...
What a gentleman and a genuine master craftsman. It was a pleasure to meet John and run through the basics of setting up a new violin with him!
Great violin shop! Well workshop, they’re actually making violins in there. Master and apprentice. Awesome quality woods and workmanship. ...
It was great to visit the store today to get a hand with some new strings. The shop was an experience in itself - like stepping into a time capsule. It sure has its charm. ...
Wonderful place, highly recommend John. Love the strings he has greatly improved my violin 🎻
Glad to this shop still thriving. Bought a bow here in 1986 and it's still serving me well. ...
John is a gentleman who knows his craft without exception. Highly recommend.
Got a cello, a violin and later traded up to bigger violin. Plus had a violin quickly repaired. Its educational and nice to talk with an experienced and friendly maker.
I was bringing my instrument either for a valuation or to leave for sale. ...
I have been taking my violins to John for quite a few years and I have never been disappointed. ...
Perfect luthier!! My violins after set up by John the dynamics and tone color got upgraded and make every pieces I easier to handle on my violin!! Superb efficient and skillful!!
Visit the workshop
- Phone
- (03) 9372 8172
- [email protected]
- Address
- 700A Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds 3039, Victoria
- Open
- 8:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday. Usually by appointment on the weekend.
News from the workshop and instruments as they become available: join the email list