Goodrich Violins

Feb 2020

David Goodrich is a wonderful character. He doesn't always make it to the phone in time to pick it up, but he responds quickly to e-mails so I'd recommend that route for communication. And he is by appointment-only now, so don't just show up and expect to be seen. All that said, I doubt there's a better place anywhere to get your instrument repaired. He is extremely knowledgeable and downright passionate about violins, violas, and cellos. I own one of his violins and I take it in every year for a check-up. He holds it like a baby, taking his time to inspect everything, then hands it back and asks me to play something. Then he makes a face, takes the violin, and adjusts something before asking me to play again. Repeat for up to an hour. It's amazing how the tiniest tweakings make such a massive difference in sound quality! My violin has literally doubled in value since I bought it, and I'm sure it wouldn't have matured quite so magnificently without the yearly adjustments. Plus, it's really fun to get to try all sorts of new things- from strings to chin rests to bridges of varying heights- and then learn about why they change the way your violin plays.

Aug 2019

I am so happy with how my viola looks and sounds after David worked on it. My viola still had the bridge he made over 35 years ago, and was in need of several repairs. I would have called the work "major" because to me it seemed so, but he's done so much repair, restoration, and making of instruments (including fine ones) that this was certainly no big deal for him! He is very meticulous, knowledgeable, ethical, and passionate about everything related to string instruments. He took the time to explain every problem, the solution(s), and answer completely each of my questions. He also generously let me borrow a lovely viola he made that has a beautiful resonant, warm tone...read full review

Jan 2018

Over 25 years ago, I purchased a "restored" cello in NYC that had serious problems. David discussed the issues with me and I ended up having him re-set the neck, remove the top to reinforce some cracks, and re-bush the peg box to allow use of higher tension strings. He also advised me to write to the dealer from whom I'd purchased the instrument detailing the problems he'd solved. Based on his diagnosis and reputation, they sent me a check covering most of the repair cost. I still play this cello today, and it has been entirely free of problems. David routinely works on instruments worth 10-20x what mine cost; I would trust him with anything!