Manti P.
Principal Viola, Vancouver Island Symphony Orchestra
“Josh Dean is the most knowledgeable violin expert in North America. His expertise is unparalleled. If I send him a photo, he tells me who the maker is in less than 10 seconds!"
Monika N.
Concert Violinist, Gold Medal Violin Teacher, Royal Conservatory of Music
Josh is very knowledgeable and experienced. I had an opportunity to have my students buy violin from him a few times. Always professional and helpful. I also ended up buying my dream violin from him. She comes with the certificate of authenticity. I absolutely love this instrument!!!! Highly recommended.
Samuel T.
2nd Principal Violin, Vancouver Island Symphony Orchestra
“Josh Dean Rare Violins has a great selection of fine instruments and bows- all in pristine condition. I got my Sartory from them and I’m loving it.”
Simon H.
Violinist of The Metropolitan Opera
“After visiting many shops, I finally found my current violin bow though Josh Dean Rare Violins- it has improved my solo playing so much and I love the sound I can create with such a fine bow. Josh gave me great advice early in my career and encouraged me to enter competitions and helped me study with a legendary teacher. I cannot thank him enough for helping me be where I am today. He also loaned me a beautiful Stradivarius violin!
Thank you so much, Josh!”
Jason J.
Concert Violinist, DMA, University of Cincinnati
I visited Josh’s Fine Instruments shop the last time I had an audition with the VSO. Josh was incredibly nice to work with. We discussed sound adjustments and I had the opportunity to try out several of his precious violins. In the end, he generously lent me his Capicchioni violin for my audition. The instrument had an impressive and powerful sound. When I brought the violin into the audition room, I was amazed by its sound projection. It truly proved to be a great weapon! Additionally, getting to know such a lovely individual in Vancouver was a delightful experience.
Sandra L.
Concertmaster, Fraser Valley Symphony Orchestra
“Josh Dean’s knowledge of stringed instruments and his access to beautiful antique violins and bows made it possible for me to find my dream violin, a 1799 Thomas Perry, and my beautiful Emmanuel Carlier bow from Paris. His attention and care of my instrument, its set-up and unique sound, keeps it in top playing condition, with every detail observed by his watchful eyes and ears. Whatever work needs to be done, he either does himself or finds just the right person for the job. He has also been able to find perfect instruments and bows for my friends as well. Josh is truly a remarkable man with great talent…I cannot speak of him highly enough. It is my great pleasure to recommend him for any student at any age, and to anyone looking for that perfect instrument.
Gordon H.
Violin Collector
“Hi Josh, well I have only had about an hour playing on my NEW violin. It does seem like it is new, and wanted you to know that I appreciate your work on it, am enjoying the new sound and feel very much. Thanks for the great work. It takes a lot to get me excited and I am!”