We've been coming to CK Violins since my son chose to play the violin at age 7/8--he's now 14! We were originally referred by his private music teacher, Mr. Sean, and it's been a great experience ever since. The owner is incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and always willing to help. He takes the time to explain options and provide guidance, whether you're a beginner or more advanced. One of the best things about buying an instrument here is the trade-in option--you can upgrade as your child grows or progresses and just pay the difference. They also carry a variety of accessories like strings, bows, and more. I believe they offer music lessons on-site as well. There's convenient parking available, and the owner validates. There's also a bathroom available, which is definitely appreciated during longer visits. Highly recommend CK Violins for anyone looking for quality instruments and great service! read more

CK Violins - 2019: Started playing the violin and music lessons. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Highly recommend! Nicholas is extremely kind and helpful! I've never been to a violin store that looked so neat like CK Violins! Parking available with validation. Will definitely be returning :) read more

I only use this place and I like the place because the owner is so friendly. Also whenever I asked to him playing violin, he played me my favorite songs with his amazing skills. Thank you so much:) read more

CK Violins - I brought a new violin from him! - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We are very blessed to have Nick and CK Violins serving the music string enthusiasts on the island. Bic has taken care of our violin needs for years and is always friendly, professional and takes every service or maintenance issue seriously and diligently. Our daughter is blessed to have CK tune and service her violin and we look forward to years of help and support to come. Keep up the great work Nick and team! read more

I have been working with CK Violin for years throughout my daughter's violin journey, and I can't recommend them highly enough. As my daughter has grown as a musician over this time, CK Violin has consistently provided excellent guidance on instrument upgrades that matched her developing skills. Their pricing has always been fair and reasonable, making each step up in quality accessible for our family. When we struggled with my daughter's previous instructor, CK went above and beyond by recommending a new teacher who proved to be amazing. Thanks to this connection, my daughter successfully auditioned for and joined the Honolulu Youth Symphony! Their repair services deserve special mention as well. Over the years, whenever we've needed maintenance or adjustments, they've completed the work quickly and at very reasonable prices. For parents of young violinists, CK Violin offers that perfect combination of expertise, personalized service, and fair pricing that makes the long-term musical journey so much more enjoyable. read more

We have been going to CK violins for the past 4 years. My son was a beginner in elementary school and we were not sure if he would keep it up so we had been renting from Nick for the past three years. My son had changed from a small violin to a mid-size. Nick is always so helpful in getting us the right size and also helped us tune the violin in between. Finally this year my son is in the middle school orchestra and ready for an adult violin and Nick told us it would be a great time to purchase his very own instrument as he would not need a different size from this point on. Nick recommended a great violin for us, and we are always amazed by the superior service. He is so knowledgeable and kind. The store is located in Waikiki, but there is always plenty of parking in the building, and he also validates the ticket for his customers. I would highly recommend anyone who starts playing violins to CK. read more

CK Violins - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Owner was very nice. We chatted a bit but it was clear this is not a come in and browse kind of place.

I am writing to say thank you to CK Violins for always being so kind and helpful to me and my students. When my students need to buy an instrument , the owner provides a selection of instruments and bows within the family's budget. After buying an instrument they can rely on CK Violins to help them keep their instrument in good shape. Also, young students who bought their first, small instrument from CK, are given a generous trade-in discount when they need to buy a bigger one. Thank you CK Violins for doing so much to support all string instrument players. read more

My daughter recently started taking violin lessons and needed . . . a violin. Her teacher recommended renting one from Nicholas at CK Violins. I liked the idea of renting (versus buying) initially since we don't know how long her enthusiasm, interest and commitment will last. So it was nice that this was an option. Located at the Waikiki Landmark on Kalakaua. Easy to find. Validated parking. Parking spaces are tight! Bring your compact vehicle, not your SUV! Shop is beautiful!!! Nicholas and his wife were very friendly and extremely helpful. He helped our daughter find the right size violin and set us up with a rental ($20/month) - easy breezy. Saturday hours makes it convenient for those who don't live/work in town. Awesome place if you need to rent, repair or purchase a violin, viola or cello. No mention of bass, however. Sorry bass players. read more

ended up finding what we needed at another store, but we did appreciate the feedback and quick willingness to help and make things right from the owner, i am optimistic that it will surely be a learning experience, wishing them the best read more

If you're planning on learning or purchasing a violin, cello, or viola and don't know where to go...CK violin is the place to be Nick is a fanatic, caring, and helpful gentleman who cares deeply about his clients/customers. He is extremely helpful and exceptionally knowledgeable on the instruments...I highly recommend coming to CK violins for all your instruments needs. read more

Amazing service, extremely knowledgeable, and I have had the pleasure of knowing Nick over 25 years.

I have been renting a cello from Nicholas at CK Violins on and off for three years now. He has always been so gracious with me and the cellos were always so beautiful and great sounding! I had decided to make the big leap and buy my 400 series cello from them and it was a wonderful experience! The cello is absolutely beautiful and the deep dark brown colors mixed with the beautiful sounds it makes really shows the quality of their work. They truly are dedicated to helping you find the right instrument for you and are willing to work with you for payments as well. I had to do payments but I love my cello so much it was completely worth it. They are extremely reasonable and the quality of the cello shows when you play it. I have had my cello for about three months now and cannot wait to play it in a performance. I play for funerals, and then hoping to play for nursing homes and weddings in time. So I have big dreams for my cello. If you are looking for someone who will let you try out instruments, ask every question in the book, and work with you on price and timeframe, this really is the place to go. I have never met someone more dedicated to their instruments and more understanding then CK Violins. read more

CK Violins - Me with my cello - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This ck violin store is a sad joke violins are overpriced I swear these violins have to be from Amazon this is bs do go to this violin store unless you want drainage to your wallet and violins are not refundable that's a bullshit policy don't go to ck violin way too overpriced if you want to go to a real violin store and have good quality and sound go to Music center of Hawaii read more

I have been playing the cello for over 27 years professionally. I live in different cities equally from: L.A., Seoul, and Oahu. Level of details Nicholas has about the string instrument is world class. I absolutely love talking with Nicholas about the instrument world and his passion for the craft is trust worthy. I recommend anyone to come to CK Violin for any inquiry regarding instrument, bow re-hairing and string instrument repairs. read more

CK Violins - Cello bow - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Knocked my 65" LG OLED over onto my coffee table and destroyed it. On the way down, it hit my cello and scratched it to hell. Thankfully, it's electric so no damage to the sound producing components. The TV also broke my far left fine tuner pin right off. Nick came thru and got it fixed with a new fine tuner pin when I walked in. Great shop, they also serviced my electric cello a few years ago. read more

I truly loved the store the ambiance and amazing staff there. I've owned 3 violins over $1k each and ck violin sounded the best :) I want to come back again and hope to own another soon! read more

CK Violins is simply terrific! We started going to the shop 4 years ago, when my daughter needed to upsize from a 3/4 cello to a 4/4, and both the school's orchestra program teachers and my daughter's cello teacher recommended this establishment. Nicholas Zou, the personable, kind proprietor, provides superlative professional service. Can't make the normal store hours? Just call to make an appointment. You can also email him and expect a prompt, specific reply. A professional musician and string player himself, Nicholas provides sage advice, has the best selection of orchestral string instruments on the island, and also sells other musical supplies: rosin, replacement strings, cello donuts, hard-shell cases etc. CK Violins also has an in-house luthier, in the event that your instrument needs mechanical overhauling, tweaking, or repairs or you need your bow rehaired or repaired. Nicholas is also an honest soul--if he thinks you can get a better product somewhere else, or find a better price, he'll let you know that information too! When daughter upgraded to a full-size cello, Nicholas bought our 3/4 cello and applied the price to the new instrument. He asked what we desired in an instrument, including the cost range, and provided a private room and a number of cellos to "test-drive." My daughter and her teacher were able to test the instruments at their leisure, in a pressure-free environment. He also gifted daughter with new rosin. A few weeks ago, we bought strings off of Amazon and visited CK for cello string replacement. We were expecting to get charged, but Nicholas restrung the cello for free, showed my husband how to restring the instrument, and taught him a few tricks of the trade to make the process easier, should we ever want to restring the cello ourselves. He also advised us to keep our old strings as backup, since, in his estimation, they were still good. CK Violins is located in the Waikiki Landmark. Ample validated parking can be found in the basement parking lot below the Landmark, marked for Retail Shops. Highly recommended! read more

I have been going to CK violins for over 12 years and I will always recommend them. Right from the moment you walk in through the door, Nick is always there to greet you with the warmest that makes anyone feel welcomed. When I went off to college, no matter how long I've been away, Nick always remembers me. They have a variety of string instruments and provide excellent service. From buying/selling instruments, materials, and repairs, CK violins provides everything that a string musician requires. Nick makes sure that you are paired with the perfect instrument that you are looking for. I love their service and I don't believe that you will find another violin store/luthier as amazing as this one in Hawaii. Thank you Nick for all that you do! read more

The customer service here is five stars!! We went there to have our viola repaired. They were able to match the color of the viola scratches perfectly. Their prices are very reasonable. Be aware that they may not check their email often so calling the store may be a better option. The store location is good and they validate for parking. read more

Very professional, friendly, clean store. First violin for my daughter and she loves it.

I've known Nicholas since CK Violin was at Ward, and never before have I met someone so passionate about stringed instruments. You can tell he truly loves being around music and finding the perfect instrument for his customers. Not only does he love being around music, but he's extremely supportive about the progress of his customers as well. Nowhere is he ever judgmental, especially to those who love music and want to take their playing to the next level. If anyone wants to purchase an instrument, experienced or not, I honestly recommend CK Violin. read more

Phenomenal store and phenomenal service. We drove down from Wahiawa and it took less than 15 minutes for him to swap out a part and charge us out. We didn't pay for parking because it was validated and he was so efficient. Lots of beautiful instruments in stock. Clearly a person that values their craft. WELL WORTH THE DRIVE! read more

Nicholas, the Manager, is so kind and offers us great customer service anytime when we visit him! My daughter and all her friends are renting or buying violins from here. When my daughter started renting a violin, I was a little nervous to enter the store and to touch violin itself because I had an image of strict and quiet classical music to violin. However, he blew that image away from my mind! Whenever we have a trouble on our violins, he quickly fixes it. So skillful and knowledgeable!! マネージャーのニコラスさんはとっても親切で、いつでもお店に行くとカスタマーサービスが最高です。娘も彼女のお友達も、みんなCKさんからバイオリンレンタルもしくは購入をしています。 始めた頃は敷居が高そうに思っていたバイオリンとお店ですが、ニコラスさんのおかげで安心してレッスンに取り組めています。 楽器に問題があればいつでも、あっという間に直してくれます。技術も知識もある方で頼りにしてます。 read more

Same AMAZING service after 20+ years. Came to the shop to have Nicholas check out the Cello's I had bought from him 20+ years ago. Felt like time had never passed. read more

Very professional and friendly store. They have everything a string player needs. My child got a wonderful 1/8 violin size that has an amazing sound, perfect measurements, great quality (think of that size what awful sound usually the little violins have). I have never experienced better friendliness than here. Definitely recommend this place - to get a good instrument and a good, professional advice. read more

We purchased my daughters cello from CK 8 years ago. After setting a price range, Nicholas introduced my daughter to several cellos. She found her favorite and named it Lemon Cello. She was home for a family emergency and needed to practice, and inquired about a rental. They do not offer rentals , but after recognizing us from previous visits, he graciously lent us a cello. Nicholas was so amazing and kind in the time that we needed some tender care. I am so appreciative of his kindness. Thank you Nicholas. Good bless you . read more

I don't play the violin but bought one from here for my daughter. I like how he does business. If you want to trade up, he will discount the price you paid for your original one. He will fix any of his violins and help to replace strings too (he said,"you sit on it, your fault. It break you no sit on it, I fix"). The sound quality of the violin I bought was so beautiful. Hoping it lasts my daughter another 4-5 years do we can trade up. read more

If you have ANY question regarding the violin, this is the place to find all your answers. Nicholas is friendly and knowledge about violins. He helped me with all my violin needs. They even hold lessons right there in the shop, if you're interested. $20/month rental violin (minimum 3 months) And you can sell any violin you buy there and he will buy it back for the same price you bought it for...(or something like that since violins appreciate in price). Yelp 365 Challenge #224/365 read more

We recently visited CK Violins and bought a wonderful cello from Nicholas. Nicholas is patient, knowledgable, and super easy to work with. He also helped us connect with some local cello teachers for lessons. Even with the top notch service and instrument, the pricing was very reasonable. I would recommend anyone on the island to visit CK Violins if they are looking for a quality string instrument and expert advice. read more

I have known Nicholas Zoe for more than 20 years, and he is fantastic. We rented a violin for my oldest son, now 27, when he started playing in the 4th grade. Nicholas ended up making a violin for my son which he still cherishes and plays. A couple of months ago, I called Nicholas to ask about a cello for my youngest son who wants to start. Nicholas found one for us, and now my youngest is starting on his musical adventure. Every single interaction I have had with Nicholas has been a great mixture of joy and professionalism. He clearly knows music, the music business and he has many contacts in Hawaii. He set us up with two possible teachers for my youngest, for example. Over the years, he fixed any problems with the instruments, he was always ready to help with good advice, and he always found a solution. In every single interaction, he is very pleasant and makes you feel like what you are - not just a customer, but a new friend. read more

I've been buying my violin from CK since I was 4 years old. I am now 19 years old. Nicholas is extremely knowledgeable about instruments and is an expert at his craft. He makes sure to provide the BEST quality instruments with the best prices. He will let you try all the instruments and make sure to give you what you ask for (type of sound, feel, etc.). Nicholas is highly respected, trustworthy, personable, and will impress you with his instrument selection. Go to CK violins for the best quality instruments and service on the island. read more

I once had to take my cello to repair my bridge and fine tuner peg and the staff (Nicholas) was so helpful and nice and was able to get everything fixed in about 15-20 minutes and I didn't have to worry anymore about my cello! I also buy my cellos here and Nicholas was again very accommodating and helpful with finding the right cello for me. I totally recommend CK Violins for repairs and getting instruments for beginners and students! read more

Since starting my studies on the violin back in 2007 Nick has taken care of me and my needs. Even now I have transitioned to playing the viola, I have received professional level services. Lately one other shop has been trying desperately making claims about this shop being bad in its business tactics and so on. Honestly you as the customer have a choice of four shops on island you can visit and test out their instruments. Please do your research on each shop and see what they have. And better yet, if you have a friend or two who can play the instrument, have them try out the instruments too and get their opinion. When I upgraded my viola, I asked five different musicians not affiliated with CK and got their opinions. Excuse my language, one of my friends said, "you'll be an idiot if you don't get this instrument." Honestly when I first played the instrument, it felt right for me, but getting extra opinions on the instrument reaffirmed my belief that the instrument I had was of high quality. To conclude this review, please do your research. Bring a few people who can play the instrument and get their input on the instrument. read more

My family and I have been with CK Violins for over 7 years now and they have been literally instrumental in getting me and my brothers started and most importantly enjoying playing our string instruments. They have made sure that all our needs are met and have gone out of their way to make sure we can keep playing! The service is exceptional and I definitely recommend CK Violins to anyone of any string playing ability. read more

We bought a cello for my daughter 4 years ago from Nicholas at CK Violins. He was so nice and helpful. She loves her cello and it has given her such a sense of confidence because of the beautiful sound it made. Just had to do a repair and he did it at no charge. I highly recommend his shop!! Thank you Nicholas!! read more

CK Violins has been amazing to us. Our son started cello lessons about 4 months ago & we needed to rent a cello & his instructor suggested CK Violins so we just walked in not knowing anything about instruments or this location. Nicholas was so quick to help us even though he was assisting another family when we walked in but he made sure to check in with us & let us know that he would help as soon as he was done. Nicholas was absolutely helpful & even went out his way to help our son get fitted for the right size cello & show him how to sit properly with it. Fast forward 3 months, one of the strings came off & we call Nicholas & because we were renting from him, he was able to have us quickly stop in before our son's lesson & get a new string put on with no fee to the rental. We are waiting for our son to grow into the largest size & purchase from Nicholas. Beyond thrilled with this place & would recommend it to anyone!! read more

If you have ANY questions about orchestral strings, Nicholas has the answers. He's very friendly and knowledgeable and if he can't help you, then there's probably no one on the island that can. His new shop in the Waikiki Landmark is gorgeous. So much so that I never even considered his shop when buying my first violin because I thought I wouldn't be able to afford it. His prices are very reasonable, but don't go in expecting to get anything for less than $500. He takes pride in all the instruments he carries, which include a few that are made for his shop. I had previously owned a violin that was from another local shop and Nicholas was generous enough to give me about 80% of what it was worth toward my trade, which was SUPER generous. I wasn't even planning on leaving the shop with a new violin, but after he told me how much he'd give me, I didn't have to think too much about it. Parking is surprisingly easy and not too expensive at $1 per hour in the landmark. It's prepaid so make sure you know how long you're going to take. One thing to really remember is that he's only open for 24 hours a WEEK. Monday through Saturday 1p to 5p, but you can always call to schedule an appointment. The strict hours would usually turn me off, but for the quality of service you receive, I'm willing to find time. Overall, Nicholas will definitely be my go to man for servicing my violin and I would highly recommend him to any string player regardless of playing level. read more

Very friendly and knowledgeable. The owner takes his time with each customer. He helped our 6 year old find a violin to fit her. He did suggest a team tap but we went ahead and just bought one. He was nice enough to throw in a few extra items. Would defiantly recommend this location to others. read more

Nicholas at CK was the nicest, most professional and most helpful I've met in the state of Hawaii. I had to send my bow for a frog repair and I've seldom felt so confident with sending my bow to Oahu...and then SO happy with the results. read more