Philip Brown Violins

Supplying violins, violas, 'celli, bows and baroque bows to string players from beginners to amateur players, teachers, collectors and professionals since 1985, Philip Brown Violins offer honest, trustworthy expert knowledge and workshop skills.

We carry one of the best stocks of instruments and bows in the UK, representing some of the best of English, French and Italian instruments available.

We sell instruments from £500 to £500,000 and offer a rental service for those not sure whether to buy.

We also always have a good range of bows in stock including 18th century originals.

Bows suitable for those interested in period performance are made in the workshop by Philip and the team.

We are very pleased to be able to offer a fabulous Tubbs bow that belonged to the composer and musician Ronald Binge (1910-1979). For a description and photos, please click here.	We are running Teacher Workshop Days in 2013 for teachers to join us for a fun day behind the scenes in the workshop and to learn more about the instrument they teach and play. The first session will be free, and later sessions will be £20 per person, including lunch and refreshments. For more details and our registration form, click here.

Featured Stock

Knopf
Christian Wilhelm Knopf, circa 1830. A very good example, bearing many of the classic Knopf features.
Betts
A pretty Betts violin. One piece back of pleasingly rippled maple. Typical size 14''. Good condition. Made about 1815.
Atelier Meteny - Exclusive Uk Stockist
2010. A viola made by Atelier Meteny, A European, hand made instrument made under strict control and designed by the talented Pascal Gilles (V.S.A. prize winner for tone). Very attractive and good sounding instrument. 15 5/8"
Cello Germany 1919
Good German cello by Thomsen, made in 1919. Good condition.
Pagliacci
Excellent professional sounding cello by Aldo Pagliacci, made in 1973 in Roma. No 44, this instrument has a great powerful tone and has been used by an international soloist.
Werlong
Fully mounted selected hand made Brazillian bow.
Tobin
Fine violin by Richard Tobin with excellent workmanship. Slightly small full size model. I suggest that this violin was made for the Lockey - Hill workshop - the back is made of wood usually attributed to the Hill shop and the front and scroll were made with Tobins wood.
19th century, Italy
A very interesting violin from the begining of the 19th century and probably from Parma. Poplar back, maple ribs and neck, spruce front. This instrument has been reduced in size. Very interesting tone, deceptively powerful, nutty sound. Many old restorations, but is presented in a healthy state.
Whitmarsh
Rare cello made by Edwin Whitmarsh, son of Emanuel. Edwins work is cleaner and superior to that of his father. This instrument was made in 1932. Condition good. One front crack, some old (repaired) movement to back centre joint.