The History of Caroling
Caroling began thousands of years ago in Europe as a pagan tradition. Carols were songs that were sung while dancing around stone circles and they were originally sung during every...
LIVS Blog
"Violin of the Month" - Jacek Mastal Violin
This month we've decided to feature our Jacek Mastal violin. This violin was finished in 2001 at the William Harris Lee & Company violin shop in Chicago. Aside from being a very...
"What We're Listening To:" Giovanni Bottesini Double Bass Concerto in B Minor
Giovanni Bottesini (1821-1889) was an Italian Romantic composer, conductor, and a double bass virtuoso. Bottesini held much acclaim for his mastery – he is often considered the Paganini of the...
As An Adult Beginner, Can I Teach Myself To Play The Violin?
You can try, but we strongly recommend you get a teacher for several reasons. Read more to find out!
Should I Have An Instrument Before I Meet My Teacher?
You do not need an instrument in-hand before meeting your teacher. In most cases, especially for first-time students, your teacher will want to assist in finding the right instrument for...
"Viola of the Month" - Roth Viola
Usually we feature a Violin of the Month, but this month we decided to highlight one of our violas. This viola was made in the Ernst Heinrich Roth violin-making shop in the East...
Winter Is Coming: Tips For Cold Weather Instrument Care
It may be autumn now, but winter will be upon us before long. When some people think of winter, their heads are filled with pleasant thoughts of things like hot chocolate – or...
"What We're Listening To" Aaron Copland's "Hoe Down" From Rodeo
Aaron Copland (1900-1990) was an American composer, teacher, writer, and later conductor of his own and other American music. Copland has been referred to as “the Dean of American Composers,” because...
"Sawing Away!"
When we think of bowed instruments we often only think of the obvious ones, the violin, viola, cello and bass. I believe it’s time to shine some light upon one...
"What We're Listening To:" Hector Berlioz, "Symphonie Fantastique"- Mvt. 5 "Dream of a Witches' Sabbath"
Hector Berlioz (1803-1869) was a Frenchcomposer of the Romantic era. He wrote many of his most popular works during 1830 and 1847. He was most famous for his compositions Symphonie fantastique and Grande...
"Violin of the Month" - Violin by David Polstein
Our violin of the month is by maker David Polstein who is a contemporary and personal friend of LIVS Director, Charles Rufino. This instrument is an elegant copy of an early del...
Employment Opportunities at the LIVS!
Violin/Bow Technician in Huntington: This position requires experience in using tools, we are willing to train candidates, but some experience in using and sharpening hand tools is necessary. The position...
"Violin of the Month" - Robert Dolling Violin
This violin made by Robert Dolling, circa 1920s, is a prime example of a classic Markneukirchen violin.
Niccolò Paganini "Cantabile for Violin and Guitar"
Niccolò Paganini (1782-1840) was an Italian violinist, violist, guitarist, and composer. He has been celebrated as the best violin virtuoso of his time, and heavily influenced modern violin technique. He is...
Knowing When it's Time to Rehair Your Bow
One of the most common questions we get at the shop is “How do I know when it’s time to rehair my bow?” There are a couple of different indications...
Paying Tribute to John Connolly Jr., Founder of Connolly Music Company
It is my sad duty to report the passing of our good friend John Connolly Jr. this past weekend. Although the average string player may not have known his name,...