A while ago, I brought an old German violin off ebay, thinking it would be ok, if I just put a new set of strings and a bridge on it (I'm very naive!). It was to be a spare violin to my main one and is currently looking very sorry for itself on top of my wardrobe.

The other day, while having a break from my thesis write up, I brought another violin off ebay which is a modern German one (having said I wasn't going to buy a violin off ebay). I've been advised to get the old German one restored to the standard where it could take me to grade 8 is beyond what I can afford.

I've seen adverts for weekend courses in the basics of violin restoration and I'm just wondering, do you think it's worth me having a go to give an old violin a second chance and would you do it?

Probably very good, but also very intensive courses. No harm in finding out more about what they actually teach, how much of it is hands on for you and also whether they do any follow up help.

I've not tried violin restoration myself (I'd imagine it could become very time consuming and I don't have enough time as it is ), but I would think it would take a bit more than a weekend course to both learn and get the hang of things, especialy restoration of varnish or fitting a new bridge. Also worth enquiring about any specialist tools which might need purchasing - for example, a 'soundpost setter'.

I've no idea where you are located but if you are anywhere near Cambridge it would be worth at least having a chat with these people.

http://www.makeviolins.com/

Instrument repair can be great fun (though I have not yet tried a violin) but before you start do consider how you will feel if you mess up, or don't succeed in finishing. Will the fun have been worth it, or will you think the state of your fiddle and the effort and cost of the course a total waste?

Hi,

not sure where you live but if you are near Leamington Spa try this guy...

http://www.violins.demon.co.uk/course/index.htm

I know people who have been on his short courses in violin and repair just to take care of their own instruments and they recommend him.