Violin making is a family tradition at Benning Violins, an atelier based in Los Angeles, California. Eric Benning started making his first violin when he was only nine years old, and went on to study the craft with his great-uncle in Chicago. Over the course of his career, he has made upwards of 130 violins, violas and cellos, completing four or five instruments every year. “My craft was passed down through my family by my grandfather, Paul Toenniges, and through my mother and father, Hans and Nancy Benning, and then to me,” says Eric.

Benning Violins is a longstanding fixture of Los Angeles’ musical community. Founded in 1953, the atelier specialises in the sale, restoration, appraisal and crafting of fine violins, violas, cellos and bows. Artisans make and personalise instruments for everyone, from students to internationally recognised performers. Benning Violins continues a tradition of craftsmanship that has shaped southern California’s string music community.