At Knilling, our highest purpose is the design of instruments that draw musicians in, and help them find their own, personal sound. We feel that a musician’s voice is a unique gift that must be sought out and honed, and our passion is creating instruments that inspire both players and educators, and help guide a musician in bringing their voice to life.
Knilling was founded in St. Louis, 1922. It’s founder, Bernard Kornblum, had deep roots in both music and Europe, the very birthplace of the violin, naming his company for a well-known German luthier, Johannes Knilling. Over the past century, Knilling has focused on the quality and craftsmanship of their instruments and are known around the world for models with a fantastic aesthetic and excellent longevity. Knilling’s use and knowledge of tonewoods has worked in concert with their designs to achieve a range of focused sounds that students and professionals alike will enjoy.
Other innovations and commitment to quality lie in our custom shop in St. Louis. Every instrument is inspected and set up before shipping, and every order is prepared according to an educator or player’s needs. Customers can order specific tailpieces, pegs, bows and strings, and we stand by each instrument with an exceptional, limited lifetime warranty. As Knilling looks forward to another century of design, craftsmanship and innovation, we will continue to seek out ways to improve the user experience, to create instruments that inspire, and awaken music within our players.
Removing the barriers of old designs and paving a clearer way to practice, discovery and mastery is at the heart of Knilling’s purpose. As Knilling looks forward to another century of design, craftsmanship and innovation, we will continue to seek out ways to improve the user experience, to create instruments that inspire, and awaken music within our players.