Rafael Carrabba Violins specializes in the sale of instruments and bows crafted by the finest artisans; rare, old world violins, violas and cellos, and instruments made by contemporary makers. A variety of instruments and bows are for sale at the Seattle shop and with established dealers throughout the world. Whether you’re a professional musician, an enthusiastic amateur or a student, Carrabba Violins is dedicated to finding the right instrument for you.
With over forty years in the business, Rafael Carrabba has become an expert at identifying instruments. He is particularly skilled in appreciating subtleties of Italian, English, and French schools of violin making. Rafael is an expert luthier, sought after by symphonies and universities for his restorations of cellos. Additionally, the luthiers and bow experts at Rafael Carrabba Violins work together to restore and sell some of the finest instruments in the world. Each luthier works daily on violins, violas, cellos and bows; restoring masterpieces from centuries ago. Carrabba Violins prides itself on maintaining instruments – adjusting sound posts, pasting pegs, checking bridges, string heights, etcetera.
The shop is located on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Washington. Ample street parking can be found on Galer Street and in surrounding residential streets. If you are traveling to the violin shop outside of regular hours, a private appointment may be requested with Rafael or one of our luthiers by calling 206-283-5566 / email info@carrabbaviolins.com
Shop Hours
Holiday Hours - Closed December 24-31.
Beginning in 2025, luthiers will be available by appointment only. The shop will no longer be open for walk-in clients. More information will be provided January 1, 2025.
For bow rehairs contact D. Lemmi Bows at 425-224-5689, debbie@dlemmibows.com.
Rafael Carrabba Violins was established in 1985 when Rafael bought the business of his former employer, David Saunders. Beginning at the age of twelve, Rafael worked in the Saunders store; sweeping floors, grinding rosin, polishing violins and cellos, and most importantly, absorbing whatever information he could. During summer breaks from high school, Rafael apprenticed in Chicago with Kenneth Warren & Son, one of the most renowned violin shops in the United States. After graduation, he worked at Warren for another year before moving to William Moennig's firm in Philadelphia.
Rafael spent the next four years in London, where he worked for the world’s greatest violin expert, Charles Beare. He then returned to Chicago to work for Carl Becker. Rafael relocated to London once again to work for Charles Beare for an additional four years before finally returning to his hometown of Seattle and opening his shop.
Seattle Met, Fit as a Fiddle https://www.seattlemet.com/arts-and-culture/2010/03/rafael-carrabba-violins-0410
Seattle Times, Strad on the Run https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/classical-music/strad-on-the-run-rare-instrument-restorer-rafael-carrabba-accomplishes-task-of-a-lifetime/
Carruthers Violin, Violin Safari https://www.andrewcarruthers.com/violin-making-safari-pacific-northwest-2013/
Rafael Carrabba Violins
405 W Galer St
Seattle WA 98119
206-283-5566
“Excellent luthiers. Professor Thomas advised me on work to be done & Windsor worked on my cello with great care. Kind bunch of people. Made sure I was happy with the work done. Best quality.”
“I am close to 90 years old, still playing a lovely cello purchased from Carrabba many years ago. My Coletti still sings. Constant, vigilante care from Rafael has given me years of solo and quartet work. My quartets love my cello as much as I do! Rafael’s ear is highly sensitive to bowed string instruments, and if I suspect problems w/ playing, I think it is my shortcoming. But, back to Rafael & my cello regains the warm tonal response which first enchanted me. An inspiration to meet my grand instrument once again. A thousand thanks, Rafael Carrabba”
“Excellent experience at Rafael Carrabba Violins. My husband needed a new violin and bow, and found exactly what he was looking for here - a violin with a lovely, rich sound in excellent condition and a bow that suited him perfectly. That in addition to high quality work, top notch service, and willingness to work in our budget. Rafael Carrabba and his staff exceeded our expectations and are highly recommended.”