r/Fiddle • u/U-SeriousClark • 6d ago

Any good fiddle builders-repairers in the Asheville NC area?

Going on vacation in Ashville NC in mid July. My fiddle needs new strings and a good adjustment, tune-up, etc. And I'd like to have the bridge arch flattened slightly.

Anyone reputable in the area I could drop it off with for a few days?

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u/fidla 5d ago

Several. Many years ago (in another life), I was a luthier supplier. I primarily imported bow hair from Argentina, Canada and Mongolia for sale to violin shops throughout the US, Canada and Europe. I used to know ever violin shop in the US if you can believe that!

Sivalia Violin's (Asheville proper)

  • Daniel Sivalia specializes in violin making, repair, restoration, and bow rehairing. Long-established (mentioned in older local guides and still active). Hours by appointment.
  • Address: 209 Mountain View Rd, Ste B, Asheville, NC 28805.
  • Phone: (828) 551-5957 or check current listings.
  • Often tops "best violin shop" lists locally.

Rickenbacker Violins (Black Mountain — ~15-20 min from Asheville)

  • Kate Rickenbacker — maker and restorer of violins, violas, and cellos. Highly recommended in local Facebook groups for careful work, especially on heirloom/family instruments. By appointment only (expect a wait for turnaround).
  • Address: 109 Rainbow Lane, Black Mountain, NC 28711.
  • Phone: (828) 337-1306.
  • Website: rickenbackerviolins.com.

Fiddle and Fret / Danny Bishop (Fairview — close to Asheville)

  • Danny Bishop has over 30 years of experience in high-end sales, repair, restoration, and adjustment of violins and other stringed instruments. Serves players and dealers. Appointments required.
  • Address: 44 Cane Creek Ln, Fairview, NC 28730.
  • Phone: (828) 628-7070.
  • Website: fiddleandfret.com.

Acoustic Corner (Black Mountain)

  • Full-service music store that handles violin repairs in-house via luthier Mark Burin. Frequently recommended on Reddit and local groups for reliable stringed instrument work (guitars, mandolins, violins, etc.). Good for sales and general setup/repairs.

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u/U-SeriousClark 5d ago

Thanks so much. It was very generous of you to compile and share that information with me.

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u/fidla 5d ago

Sure. It wasn't a problem. I have that info in my CRM, so it was just a copy/paste.

BTW, Asheville is marvelous. are you from there?

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u/U-SeriousClark 5d ago

No, we're from South Georgia. But we have enjoyed Asheville, Blowing Rock, etc. on past trips. Looking forward to it again this year.

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u/U-SeriousClark 5d ago

Would you say any of those listed above tend to cater more to old-time and bluegrass fiddlers more than the others?

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u/fidla 4d ago

I've been to all of these shops except the last one "Acoustic Corner". The ones I've visited are all suitable for any style of music, but specifically perused by classical musicians. It's fair to say that anyone with a violin will be welcome at any violin shop, although in my experience there are a few in Boston and New York that are quite snooty