Benning Violins, the distinguished Los Angeles-area violin shop that has served string players – from beginners to professionals – since 1953, has announced an April 28 open house to celebrate 60 years in business. The celebration will feature exhibits, hors d’oeuvres and live performances by Benning instrument owners.
Los Angeles, CA April 25, 2013 – Benning Violins, the venerable violinmaking institution providing service and sales of fine antique and contemporary cellos, violas, violins and bows to the Los Angeles classical music scene, has announced an open house in celebration of their 60th anniversary. The event is scheduled for Sunday, April 28 from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at their Ventura Boulevard shop in Studio City.
According to Eric Benning, a widely recognized third-generation violinmaker and luthier, the purpose of the celebration, which will feature exhibits, hors d’oeuvres and live performances, was planned “to show our appreciation to our customers for sixty years of loyalty.”
“This is a perfect occasion to pay respects to our customers who have been so for two or three generations,” says Benning. “One thing I’ve learned over the years, no matter how great you craft instruments, if your customers don’t spread the good word, you don’t survive for sixty years. This was true before the Internet age and it’s even truer now.”
Benning Violins began as Studio City Music, established in 1953 by Paul Toenniges, Benning’s grandfather and instrument maker, in the same Studio City location where Benning Violins stands today. Upon retiring, Toenniges turned the shop over to his daughter, Nancy Benning and her husband Hans, both renowned violinmakers and both of whom, along with Eric, will be present at the open house.
The celebration, Benning says, is also a tribute to Hans, Nancy and the extended family who run the business each day. “My parents recognized early the importance of a high level of personal service, the hallmark of Benning Violins that has been maintained for over sixty years,” said Benning. “You don’t earn the loyalty of parents whose children play, let alone that of Jascha Heifetz and half the players of the Los Angeles Philharmonic by doing merely great work.”
The highlight of the celebration, according to Client Service Manager Laura Phillips, will be live performances throughout the day of owners of violins, violas and cellos crafted by the Bennings and performed on those instruments.
“We’ve scheduled a wonderful program of great music performed by amazing musicians,” stated Phillips. “Throughout the day, visitors can eat, visit, look at some interesting exhibits and take in some wonderful performances in as intimate venue as it gets. We’re anticipating a great turnout.”
The celebration begins Sunday at 1:00 PM and ends at 6:00 PM. The shop is located at 11340 Ventura Blvd. in Studio City, California.
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