Luthier

Ricardo ​Perez

Welcome to Luthier Ricardo Perez's string instrument ​workshop, where I offer a range of services to meet all ​your musical needs. From sales and repairs to ​restoration and craftsmanship, I am dedicated to ​providing top-quality service for your string ​instruments. Whether you're looking to purchase a ​new instrument, need repairs or adjustments, or want ​to restore a beloved piece to life again, I am at your ​service. Make an appointment with me today to ​experience the passion and expertise I bring to every ​aspect of my work.

Bio

In 1987, Ricardo began building guitars and making some repairs on various string instruments under the guidance of Antonio ​Carriedo, with whom he started his first violin in 1990. Later that year, he moved to Italy, where, with the advice of maestro ​Ernesto Vaia, he finished that violin in December of the same year. Since that day, 30 plus years ago, he has built violins, violas, ​cellos, and basses without interruption until today.

In the early 90s, he attended the workshop of Master Luthier Loeiz Honoré in Cremona while also training as a bowmaker ​under the direction of Masters Giovanni Lucchi, Emilio Slaviero, and Fiorenza Manfredini in the Lombard Region. In 1992, he ​enrolled at the Parma Violin Making School and continued to deepen his studies with renowned master Luthier Renato ​Scrollavezza. The instruments he built between 1990 and 1995 while in Italy are currently played by professional musicians in ​Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and Japan.

In 1995, Ricardo and Anne-Sylvie Raynaud (currently owner of "Le Violon Rouge Atelier" in New Zealand) opened the Pérez & Raynaud ​workshop in Morelia, Mexico, where they built professional-level instruments with high-quality woods, materials, and accessories, in ​addition to providing repair, conservation, restoration and maintenance services for instruments and bows. They served music schools, ​conservatories, orchestras, and professional musicians throughout Mexico.

Ricardo has also given workshops and participated in numerous exhibitions and festivals, such as Musicora in Paris and Instrumenta in ​Mexico, among others.

In 2014, he moved to Seattle and opened Luthier Ricardo Pérez in Renton, WA. At the same time, he worked at Henry Bischofberger Violins. ​He is currently the head restorer at Applebaum Violin Shop.

He has built over 120 instruments for many professional musicians, including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. He has also had the ​pleasure of maintaining and restoring numerous instruments of great historical and artistic value, following the highest criteria learned ​from his teachers and developed through several years of professional practice.

Handmade String Instruments

Welcome to my world of handcrafted string instruments, where tradition meets artistry. Each ​violin, viola, cello, and contrabass I create is a unique masterpiece, meticulously crafted to bring ​out the finest sound and aesthetic quality.

Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition

I take great care in selecting the finest materials, choosing only the best-aged spruce for the ​front and premium maple wood for the back of each instrument. These woods are carefully ​rested and aged to ensure they provide the best tonal qualities and durability.

Masterful Designs

Every instrument is based on the models of master makers, capturing the essence of time-​honored designs. The mold for each violin, viola, cello, and contrabass is crafted with precision, ​ensuring that the final product not only looks beautiful but also resonates with the rich, warm ​tones that define exceptional string instruments.

A Labor of Love

Crafting a string instrument is more than just a process—it's a labor of love. It requires ​immense effort, patience, and persistence. From shaping the wood to the final varnish, every ​step is taken with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each instrument meets the ​highest standards of quality.

Whether you're a professional musician or an avid enthusiast, my instruments are designed to ​inspire and elevate your performance. Explore the art of handcrafted string instruments, where ​tradition and passion come together to create something truly extraordinary.

His works

Restoration

Each repair and restoration is unique. I offer free ​estimates for any repair before I start work.

I specialize in restoring old string instruments to their ​former splendor. Clients entrust me with their beloved ​instruments, often in disrepair, and I take great care to ​revive them to their full potential. Through meticulous ​craftsmanship and attention to detail, I bring these ​instruments back to life, ensuring they are playable and ​ready to be enjoyed for years to come. My goal is to ​provide a second life for these instruments so they can ​continue to bring joy to their owners for a lifetime.

Rehair & Repair Bows

I understand that your bow is more than just a tool—it’s an essential part of your ​musical expression. While many of my clients initially come to me for a rehair, I take ​the opportunity to ensure that every aspect of your bow is in optimal condition. My ​goal is not only to restore the bow hair but also to address any underlying issues ​that could affect your sound quality and playability.

Rehair:

Violin/Viola $ 85

Cello $90

Contrabass $110

Repair:

Free estimates. Price may vary depending on the condition.

Free estimate for repairs

Hours: By Appointment Only

Email Address

lauderiax@yahoo.com.mx

Phone Number

206-551-6658

Reviews

Giulio

Creating a cello from scratch was a labor of passion and dedication. I carefully studied Giulio Degani's ​techniques and craftsmanship, immersing myself in the art of lutherie to understand the intricacies of creating ​a truly exceptional instrument.

Starting with the finest quality woods, I handcrafted each piece of the cello with precision and care. From ​shaping the ribs and back to carving the scroll and neck, every detail was meticulously crafted to honor the ​legacy of Degani's work while also infusing my own creativity and style.

The varnishing process was a work of art in itself, as I carefully applied layer upon layer of varnish to bring out ​the natural beauty of the wood and enhance the resonance of the instrument. Each stroke of the brush was a ​deliberate choice, aiming to create a finish that would not only protect the cello but also add to its visual ​appeal.