I first brought my daughter's cello in because we suspected a split seam. Unfortunately for us there was actually quite a bit more going on. He showed us exactly what needed to be done and why and after he was finished the cello sounded better than it did when we purchased it (unfortunately not from him since if we had, it would have been set up correctly to begin with). My daughter sounded as if she had been playing five years longer than she has. We had an issue with the bridge warping prematurely but he immediately stood behind his work 100% and replaced it and delivered it to us as we live about an hour away. We've had other minor things done and see him at least twice a year now to get the sound post adjusted so it's always sounding its best. He matches Shar's price for strings plus he will install them for you and adjust the sound post in case it needs it.
My other daughter's bridge recently snapped on her viola. At S&E no less. We went straight to Rob. We pick it up tomorrow and I expect it will sound better than when we purchased it because, much like the cello, we made the mistake of not purchasing through Rob or bringing it straight to him afterward to make sure the setup was proper from day one.
Just by going to him we've learned a great deal about what to look for and how to prevent damage. He always explains what he does and why so we know the work is legitimate and thorough. His staff is friendly and helpful as well. If you need rosin, accessories, or sheet music then Shar is fine. If you want consistent and focused work by a professional rather than take your chances on who will get your expensive investment on any particular day, you want Wilson's.
This was NOT a paid review nor were we asked to write a review at all. Simply a very satisfied customer who doesn't have the luxury of a great deal of money to waste on bad repairs and wasted time. read more