Rafael Carrabba Violins
Rafael Carrabba Violins
 
 

Rafael Carrabba Violins is permanently closed.

Rafael welcomes remote inquiries regarding instruments and can offer guidance with placement for restoration or sale. He is retired and living in Spain. Those willing to travel may see him by appointment at his retirement workshop south of Valencia. Please contact him via email here.

For local repair and restoration services, please contact the luthiers and bow specialists listed below.

Instrument repairs -

Scott Allen: 206-609-5398 / luthierscott@gmail.com www.scottallenviolins.com

Windsor Lindberg: 206-588-2616 & 508-409-8096 (cell) / windsorlindbergviolins78@gmail.com

Bow rehairs and repairs -

D. Lemmi Bows in Edmonds: 425-224-5689 / debbie@dlemmibows.com www.dlemmibows.com

Rafael Carrabba Violins was founded in 1985 in Seattle, Washington, when Rafael Carrabba purchased the business from his former employer, David Saunders. Rafael’s journey began at the age of twelve in Saunders’ shop, where he swept floors, ground rosin, polished violins and cellos, and learned the fundamentals of the craft.

During summer breaks from high school, he apprenticed at Kenneth Warren & Son in Chicago, one of the most respected violin shops in the country. After graduating, he continued working there before joining the prestigious firm of William Moennig & Son in Philadelphia. He then worked in London alongside Charles Beare, widely regarded as the world’s foremost violin expert. Eventually, Rafael returned to Seattle.

As a master luthier, Rafael Carrabba is known for his expertise in identifying fine instruments and his knowledge of the nuances of Italian, English, and French violin making. He is also highly regarded for his restoration work, particularly of cellos, and is sought after by symphonies, universities, and private collectors.

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