Buying and Selling - Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins | Chicago Violin Sales and Restoration

Looking for an Instrument or Bow?

Darnton & Hersh offers for sale a selection of violins, violas and cellos ranging from the most exceptional antique Italian instruments to more affordable but fully playable instruments. We also offer bows in all price ranges, including those by the finest French masters. We pride ourselves on providing the same level of service and care to all our customers, no matter what kind of instrument they are purchasing.

All the instruments we sell are set up to maximize tone and playability, and come with the respected Darnton & Hersh guarantee of authenticity.

Please refer to the FAQ section below for more information on buying an instrument or bow.

Instrument Purchase FAQs

Do I need an appointment to come in and look at instruments?

Yes! We want your visit to be a good one, so please do make an appointment by phone or email. Since we offer a wide variety of instruments from modern to antique, we will ask what type of instrument would be appropriate for the kind of playing you do as well as the price range you are looking in, so we can prepare for your visit.

How much time should I set aside for the appointment?

Plan to spend an hour or two with us playing several instruments in one of our private trial rooms. We will select a group of instruments for trial that fit within your parameters and goals. While you are trying the instruments, we will be available should you have questions or need tonal adjustments, and may suggest additional instruments that might suit you.

Do I need to bring my own bow to try an instrument?

Bringing your own bow will eliminate one variable in your decision process, although we can certainly provide a sampling of bows as well. Similarly, when considering bows for purchase, it’s best to try them on the instrument you’ll be playing on, since instrument-bow synergy can be quite varied.

What happens next when I find an instrument or bow that seems to meet my needs?

Once you’ve found a violin, viola, cello, or bow you like, we will be happy to arrange a trial period so you can get further acquainted with it. Many players find this step incredibly helpful in making a final decision.

Selling or Consigning

For those interested in selling an instrument either on consignment or through outright purchase, we offer a discreet, personalized approach backed up by years of experience and results. With trusted relationships among a large international client base of musicians, collectors, patrons and institutions, we are well-positioned to handle inquiries and sales transactions in a timely and professional manner.

To inquire about selling or consigning, please contact us.

View our gallery of Notable Sales.

Antonio Stradivari violin, "Lyall ," 1702 — Antonio Stradivari violin, “Lyall,” 1702