About Petr's Violin Shop

Do you want an instrument that is easier to play before you take it out of the case?

Give your student a head start when learning to play a stringed instrument; be sure to get them one that is properly adjusted. Starting out can be frustrating for any string player, but especially so for a beginner playing an instrument that is not properly set up. Each instrument in Petr's Violin Shop is carefully adjusted to meet exacting standards before it is rented or sold. This is necessary because wood often shrinks or swells with changes in temperature or humidity. Because Alaska has a dry winter climate, each wooden instrument needs to be adjusted to play well in our environment.

Trust the professionals.

Petr's Violin Shop offers over 65 years of combined European and American experience in Stringed Instrument Making, Restoring, and Repairing. Ivan and Petr Bucinsky, father and son, are the only professionally trained Luthiers (wooden instrument makers and repairers) in Alaska. They have Violin Making degrees from Europe and The Violin Making School of America in Salt Lake City, Utah, respectively. Petr's Violin Shop is the oldest music store in Anchorage; it was first opened by Mr. Christiansen in 1962, and has been in Petr's family for over 30 years.

Already have an instrument? Need accessories?

If you presently own an instrument and want to upgrade in size or quality, we always take trade-ins. There are a large variety of problems with wooden instruments that an inexperienced eye may not be able to discern. If you think your instrument is in need of repairs, bring it in for a free estimate. Repairs are performed by Petr or his apprentice, usually with one day service. Petr's Violin Shop has all the supplies required by the Anchorage School District: All For Strings Book 1, rosin, polish cloths, and music stands. We also have a large assortment of accessories that can make learning easier and more fun, including: shoulder rests, electronic tuners, and mutes. In addition, any instrument will sound better with an upgrade in strings.