The Maker:

Charles Rufino (b. 1952) is a master violin/viola maker in New York. Rufino had impeccable training having graduated from the Newark School of Violinmaking in the 1977, then working with Nigogosian in NYC and Carl F. Becker in Chicago. He opened his own business in Long Island in 1986.s. Rufino is at the top of his craft, a consummate business owner (The Long Island Violin Shop), a brillant lecturer, and influential advocate for the arts. Perhaps the best way to describe what he does and how he does it, let’s read Rufino’s own words: “The process of making a great violin, like the practice of any art to the hightest level, is a matter of constantly refining a simple recipe, observing the results, and accruing small improvements…..a great violin requires a select set of well-seasoned wood dried for many years, a proven design. And the sensitive knowledge of an experienced artist to bring the wood and design to life.”

Appearance:

Rufino creates violins that emulate the violin masterpieces of 18th century Italy by Stradivari and Guarneri.

Sound & Feel:

Rufino is keenly attuned to the needs and dreams of the player resulting in violins with unparalleled comfort, responsiveness, and security to provide the gift of security and total musical freedom when playing. The Soloist violin speaks with responsive authority and projection whether at ppp or FFF. When you play the Rufino, you just KNOW this violin was made with love for music and destined to be the violin you will cherish for a lifetime. You can completely wallow in the ebullient and luxurious playability of the violin knowing you will always trust the response and elevation of your music. Rufino instruments are amazing. As Carol King would sing (as does the Rufino) “You’ve got a friend.”

Materials:

Belly: Spruce, Two-piece

Back: Maple, Two-piece

Specs:

Back Length: 36.4 cm

String Length: 32.7 cm