About

Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins was founded in 2002 by Stefan Hersh, Julian Hersh, and Michael Darnton, building on decades of collective experience in the string instrument trade. The company’s first location was at 220 South State Street in downtown Chicago, just around the corner from our current home at 11 East Adams. The Darnton & Hersh suite includes two large salons that serve as trial rooms, staff offices, and our repair and restoration shop, all with spectacular views of the city.

Staff Bios

Stefan Hersh

Owner

Founder of Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins and Midwest String Rentals and founder/ Artistic Director of the classical music incubator not-for-profit Guarneri Hall, Stefan Hersh brings a unique confluence of skills to his role as president of the companies: violinist, pedagogue, expert in string instruments. Read more

Julian Hersh

Owner

A co-founder of Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins and partner in Midwest String Rentals, Julian Hersh has worked as a violin dealer in the string instrument trade for over 20 years. He is a recognized expert and author of numerous articles on violin family instruments. Read more

Michael Darnton

Owner

Violin maker Michael Darnton, head of the instrument workshop, is a co-founder of Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins and Midwest String Rentals. He is recognized internationally for his violins as well as his extensive writings about instrument making and setup. Read more

Heide Li

Violin Maker and Restorer

Violin maker and restorer Heide Li enjoys getting to know the wide variety of clients and fine instruments that pass through Darnton & Hersh. In her spare time she is an avid chamber musician on violin and viola. Read more

Juli Hudgins

Accounts Administrator

As accounts administrator/ office manager, Juli Hudgins brings practicality and accountability to the assembly of musicians and creative folk who make up Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins and Midwest String Rentals. Read more

Roberta Freier

Reception

Roberta Freier handles the front desk at Darnton & Hersh/Midwest String Rentals. A musician herself, Roberta enjoys working with all who come into the shop, especially the families who rent instruments from Midwest String Rentals. Read more