Ernest enjoys working one on one with all levels of musicians to meet their individual needs. Please contact us (see below) to discuss your needs or to make an appointment for a repair estimate.

Training and Experience

Ernest first opened Davenport Violin & Bow in 2005, changing the name to Violin Bench in 2023.  He acquires instruments for restoration and resale and performs repairs for local customers, as well as for other violin shops in the Pacific Northwest, including Paul Schuback, Bischofberger, and Hoffman Music.

Ernest has been performing violin family repairs since 1997 and is committed to continuing his careful study of restorative techniques so that he can perform the best possible repairs for his customers. 

From 1997 until 2005 Ernest worked at Lundin’s Violins.  While at Lundin’s, he received training in bowed instrument set up and repair from Jim Kytonen (currently of Violin Works in Spokane) and bow rehair from Tim Barber.

Prior to and during his training in violin and bow repair at Lundin’s, Ernest completed the Roberto Venn instrument building and repair course in Phoenix, Arizona, violin and bow building workshops at Bernard Michaud’s mill in Fertans, France (Bois de Lutherie), and summer violin repair workshops with Horst Kloss at the University of New Hampshire, honing the necessary skills for high end repairs as well as gaining further insights into building.