"Dear Mr. Rufino,
I just read the recent article in the Chronicle for Higher Education detailing your incredible gift to Mr. Lassley. I was deeply moved by your generosity. More and more I feel that this world is becoming a cruel place.Yet, when I read about kind acts such as yours, it keeps me inspired to continue to reach out and help others. Thank you for allowing the Chronicle to share this story."
Sue Herschlag, Easton, PA

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
I cannot begin to express my gratitude towards you for your willingness to work with me in finding a new instrument. For a long time, I assumed that a new cello of this caliber was an unlikely possibility and to have found this cello, which is the perfect fit, feels like an unbelievable blessing. In my months of shopping, I can saw with confidence that there is no one else I would have wanted to buy and instrument from . In our years of working together, you have continuously shown your generosity. Your patience and understanding have helped me to make this leap with confidence and assurance that I am making a worthwhile investment. I am looking forward to our continued relationship with this cello. I really cannot thank you enough! "
Elizabeth Meszaros, Silver Spring, MD

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
I am the principal violist of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra in Tennessee and purchased a Charles Rufino viola in 2003 from one of your dealers. This instrument is FABULOUS. When I was shopping, I wanted an instrument powerful enough to cut through the orchestra for solos. I can stand out when I need to, but it blends wonderfully for orchestral and chamber playing. I play in a quartet where the other players have fine old Italian instruments and I have no problem matching and blending with them. I am also impressed at how easy it is to play. I am a former violinist and while I am physically capable of playing a 16-1/2 to 16-3/4 viola it's just not comfortable to me.  Your 16 inch viola is not only easy to play, but it has the sound and power of a larger instrument. I just wanted to let you know how pleased I have been with your viola. If you ever decide to put testimonials on your site, I would be happy to be included."
Katy Gawne, Knoxville, TN

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
I just wanted to thank you again for providing my students with the opportunity to participate in today's masterclass. I really enjoyed the class. I especially enjoyed that my students were hearing some of the same points that I have been trying to make to them as recently as 2 days ago! I do so much appreciate that you are bringing in these teachers and artists to share their ideas and thank you for all you do for the musical community here on Long Island!"
Thalia Greenhalgh, Long Island, NY

"Dear Charles,
Thank you so much for your contribution to a tremendous evening.  We've had enthusiastic compliments and so much of it was because of your collegial spirit and generous response to our call for this Viola Expo.  Thanks again a Viva La Viola!"
Sincerely,
The New York Viola Society

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
Many thanks for your time and help with my violin search.  I absolutely love the instrument you made, and everyone who has heard and played the instrument loves it, too!  Looking forward to seeing you in Houston on your next visit. "
Christine Wisch, Houston TX

"Dear Charles,
We would like to express our deepest appreciation for resolving our family's recent bow crisis. This Vuillaume bow has been our family's most treasured heirloom. The Stanhope lens was a source of entertainment for myself and siblings when were were little and then for the grandchildren as we started our own families.  My Dad was given this bow from his violin teacher in the 1930's.  Although it was his prized possession, the monetary value was unknown and of no importance to him.  The sentimentality was the greater value. Upon Dad's passing the bow was given to my daughter, Meredith, who had begun violin lessons at 5 years old.  She has revered this bow as a very special keepsake.  It was not until Meredith became a more accomplished musician and the bow was sent out for rehair that we were informed of its uniqueness and monetary value. Meredith, now 16, was devastated when she discovered the Stanhope lens had fallen out.  I too, was quite upset.  Without thought, Meredith insisted that Mr. Rufino could fix it. I know she drove you and your staff crazy with her numerous rejections of the portraits, phone calls and e-mails.  But it was your patience, attention to detail and affection with which you took on this project that has restored the bow to original condition.  I could not be more pleased. I understand that, worldwide, a repair of this nature may only happen a few times a year.  Thank you for your fine workmanship in this restoration."
Larry Johanson, Highbridge, New Jersey

"Dear Charles,
I wanted to drop you a short note of appreciation for working with my daughter in her pursuit of a viola. Interestingly enough, you were the only shop that took the time and energy to talk with her at great length as to her wishes, wants, and future aspirations regarding an instrument.
I also want to express my gratitude for the way you worked with Shawn and us on this purchase. It was truly a very positive experience for our family and, especially Shawn as she received and instrument that she will love playing and owning for many years to come."
Regards and Best Wishes,
Philip L. McCanless, Jr. Atlanta, Georgia

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
Thank you so much for all your patience during my first cello-buying experience. As you can surely imagine, it was a big, stressful decision for me, You were very patient, knowledgeable, and accommodating of my work schedule. Thanks again! I love my new cello!!"
Claudine Kiffer, New York, New York

"Dear Charles,
I'm certainly enjoying the violin. It's been sounding great in many of my performances and I'm very grateful for your artistry!"
Dale Stuckenbruck, New York, New York

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
Thank you so much for your generosity in sponsoring prize winners at the biannual New York ASTA with NSOA Solo Competition that was held at Ithaca College this past December. Winners at the state level will continue on to the national competition in March. Thank you for helping promote string education and string playing in New for helping promote string education and string playing in New York State."
Steve Thomas, NY Chapter American String Teachers Association

"Dear Charles,
I wanted to thank you personally for the wonderful work you did on my cello this winter.  I appreciate your willingness to fit me into your busy holiday schedule.  My cello sounds fabulous and you are a true craftsman.  My quartet was stunned by the vibrancy and resonance you were able to create.  I promise to return again... at a less busy time!  All the best for your new year!"
Elizabeth Meszaros, Silver Spring, Maryland

"Dear Mr. Rufino,
Thank you for your continued support of the Long Island String Festival Association. Your generous donation for the "Studio Award" has been awarded to two talented students."
Peter A. Tomforde, Scholarship Chairperson, LISFA Association