Hi there, and welcome.

I'm John, the owner and founder of John Patrick Egan Violins.

I’ve been involved with music and musical instruments since before I can remember. I started playing piano at six, but after a year the violin became my main study and area of interest, and has remained at the forefront of my life in one way or another ever since.

Growing up, apart from the standard classical route of lessons, orchestras, string ensembles, etc., I also played violin and cello for various bands, theatre performances, experimental recordings, and Arts Council projects, while also expanding my interest in stringed instruments as both objects and as essential tools of the trade, the starting point of what has led me to where I am today.

After studying in Dublin and London, my proper instrument education began at J. P. Guivier & Co., London’s oldest violin dealership. During my time there, I started to develop the skills necessary to authenticate and value violins, violas, cellos, and their bows. The exposure to so many different examples also meant that I began to understand the huge difference the right violin or bow can make for a musician as they advance their technique and sound. This helped enormously in my now being able to guide players in the right direction to ensure they secure the best instrument for their ambitions.

As my knowledge improved, I was approached by Brompton’s Fine & Rare  Instruments, one of the world’s leading stringed instruments houses, eventually working as their Senior Specialist and Head of U.K. Sales. A mammoth learning curve, but hugely important in terms of access to really important instruments on a rolling basis. This was invaluable in terms of refining my knowledge, and while with Brompton’s I had the opportunity to handle, study, and assist in the sale of examples by greats such as Stradivari, members of the Guarneri, Amati, Testore, and Gagliano families, Guadagnini, Rocca, Pressenda, and Vuillaume, among many, many others.

After more than twelve years of working in the industry in London, advising the full spectrum of players from beginner to soloist, as well as collectors and enthusiasts, I am now based in Dublin (with regular trips to London for instrument consultation) and am excited about being able to contribute to the cultural network of my home city.

I look forward to helping you on your instrument journey.

John Patrick Egan Violins 27 Fitzwilliam Street Upper, Dublin 2, D02TP23 Ireland