Approach in selling & helping string instrument students
My principles with selling
I’ve been working with customers since I was 13, and I quickly realised the traits needed to earn trust – competitive pricings, reliable communication, and transparency/openness. These core values are still held today, and I try where I can to help people save money with purchases. For example as a freelance dealer, I source and set up instruments for sale at prices below london shop values.
With instruments/bows for sale, I always try to maximise what a customer receives back in value – through the work standards I am able to put in as a luthier, and the time given for a tailored experience.
Learn more about the buying process
Meeting customer’s individual budgets for luthier work
When discussing needed work, customers appreciate that we take time to assess and explain everything together about their instrument, and the things that can be done to suit different budgets (defining things that are totally fine to keep, and “wants” vs “needs” etc).
For example, a professional player might need a new bridge fitted, but has a lower than typical budget – a lower bridge price could be offered that guarantees their sound/comfort needs, but in return reduces some of the physical refinements and time that defines higher-quality work/cost.
For students especially
Supporting students means a great deal to me! I will always find the best ways to save them money in repairs or buying, especially compared to going rates. I’d rather accept less earnings if it means a student can continue making their way with music.
Example 1: I helped a student’s family to buy a good violin at £550, which is valued for insurance at £1200.
Example 2: I helped a student to stay within their own £800 budget for a new violin, which is set up brilliantly and valued for insurance at £1800.
Example 3: If a smaller job, often I can offer for the customer to stay and watch this being done in the workshop – this saves money/time by getting rid of the need for a separate collection appointment. It’s also a fun way to show them a behind the scenes part of the violin world that most don’t get to see!
Schemes for assisted-purchases
I’m aiming to become associated with various schemes that allow students and musicians to acquire instruments more easily – info soon!