AboutTodd Sullivan Expertise Hello, I am a NYC violinist performing for Broadway shows, symphony orchestras, opera, and sundry theatre/pop tours. I would be happy to answer your questions about anything related to being a performer in the music business. I play both violin and viola professionally, so questions on playing either instrument are welcome. The only thing I am not well informed on is information concerning instruments/bows...those questions are best left to luthiers.
Experience Professional experience includes a variety of on/off Broadway tours and shows, numerous orchestras, tours with Ray Charles and Ann Murray orchestras, leader of the 20-piece Todd Sullivan Orchestra.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Fine Arts (violin) with honors from Carnegie Mellon University (1999)
Expert: Todd Sullivan Date: 6/23/2008 Subject: How to sell old violins
Question My father,has many violins that he collected over the years. There are 9 total with one being a Nichaus Amatus Feeti. in Cramona 1636.
Also have all matching bows along with a couple dozen bows one being a Strat bow.
He is going into a nursing home soon, so I think best to sell before he does.Any advise would be apreciated,
Thanks
Bob
Answer Hello Robert, I recommend going to a reputable violin shop in person to show them the instruments and gauge their interest in purchasing the violins. A reputable dealer is not in the business of ripping people off, so you should have no fear of this.
If you think that one or more of the violins has value then you should hire them to do a formal appraisal (this costs around $100) that will yield you some paperwork on the instrument. Again, the luthier will be able to tell you if any of the instruments are worth an appraisal.
If you have any very fine instruments, such as a real Amati, auctions are the preferred way of selling.
