In the summer of 1996, Founder Dalton Potter started a string shop dedicated to the notion that you could succeed in life by helping others succeed. By providing professional luthier services at an affordable cost and making beautiful instruments accessible, we could bring the gift of music into the home of every child.
As time went by and our clients matured into adult players, it became apparent the professional string community needed a reliable, ethical, and professional shop. Our staff of 4 grew over the past 20 years to a very competent family of 24. We made it our mission to recruit and retain the most talented, knowledgeable, and principled staff we could find. Our team of experienced Luthiers and Archetiers can provide the finest conservation and restoration services available.
In 2004, Dalton was fortunate to find Jim Kelly who rose to become Vice President and co-owner. Jim, Dalton, and members of the staff travel abroad several times each year to meet, examine the work of, and develop partnerships with some of the most respected modern makers and to find exceptional fine and rare antique Italian, French, English instruments and bows. These overseas connections allow us to offer a “concierge” service to musicians who are looking for a unique instrument or bow. Whether you are a world-renowned concert artist or just beginning your journey to the big stage, you will find yourself at home with the family at Potter Violins.
Dorothy and Ralph “Curly” Fox first opened Foxes Music on January 20th, 1953– President Eisenhower’s Inauguration Day. It began as a Dance Studio and Music School with a small retail operation on the side. Mrs. Fox taught dance classes, while Curly, a local jazz drummer, handled music lessons and instrument sales. Tragically, he died only a year and a half after the store opened, leaving his wife to persevere on her own.
Even though she was not a musician, Mrs. Fox made the hard decision to follow through on their dream. She turned out to be a shrewd businesswoman indeed, who eventually grew Foxes into one of the most respected music stores in the area, with an unparalleled selection of sheet music and a booming school rental business. In 1988, Mrs. Fox sold the business to Jim Edmonds, an entrepreneur with a love of music who had recently retired from the World Bank.
We feel strongly that independent, locally owned businesses are not only best situated to serve the needs of the region in which they are located, but also form a core part of their community’s unique cultural character. We have worked hard over the years to help keep the arts alive and thriving in the greater Northern Virginia area, assisting everyone from pre-school Suzuki students up to symphony orchestra musicians. We extend a heartfelt “thank you” to all of our customers and friends who have supported us these many years! And we hope to be here to serve you for many years to come.