Meet the Makers: Violin Shop Tour

Join President of the FRIENDS of the Minnesota Orchestra and Past Symphony Ball Chair, Mary Sumners, for a private tour along with her husband, violin maker Greg Sumners, managing director of the Violin Guild of America. Guided by Greg and master luthier, Will Bartruff, you will tour the VGA's full scale violin shop and school in downtown St. Paul. See up close and personally how violins and other stringed instruments are carefully handcrafted by skilled luthiers. Mr. Bartruff will explain how the whole process is done, including how wood is selected for optimal resonance and then hand carved using the same kind of tools that have been used for centuries. He will also share stories from his five decades of instrument-making and explain why the Renaissance masters like Stradivari and Guarneri are so renowned for their instruments.

Following the private tour, Mary & Greg will host a reception including wine and charcuterie in the VGA Violin Shop Players room. This in intimate members-only joint event with FRIENDS of the Minnesota Orchestra & FRIENDS of Mia.

Tour is limited to 10 members and is offered as a complimentary event in recognition of the generosity of our Patrons and Benefactors. We can not accept guest reservations.

Spots will go quickly and the deadline to register is Friday, February 28. Reserve your spot today!