Fountain Inn, SC – Gencarelli Bass Works and Fine String Instruments, LLC (GBW), a small business specializing in the repair and restoration of violin-family instruments in downtown Fountain Inn, SC, welcomes violin maker Matthew Gilbert to its team. With nearly 20 years experience working on instruments running the gambit of price values from the inexpensive internet bargain to treasured, classic Italian masterpieces, Mr. Gilbert’s expertise brings superior violin, viola, and cello repair services to GBW clients along with quality bow rehairing and maintenance.
A native of Ohio, Matthew Gilbert holds a degree in Violin Making from Indiana University Bloomington in addition to a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Saint Meinrad College and School of Theology in Indiana. He worked at The Potter Violin Company, a prestigious shop in Bethesda, Maryland recognized as the largest purveyor of bowed string instruments on the East Coast. While at Potter’s, he was in charge of repairing and maintaining over 3,000 instruments. In 2004 he moved to Greenville, SC where he worked for Bernhardt House of Violins where he completed a variety of restorations on violin family instruments and bows. His restoration accomplishments range from simple finish retouches and bridge replacements to more complex repairs requiring plaster casts and weeks of detail work. As well as a fine restorer, Mr. Gilbert has made several of his own violins and continues to practice his craft in his downtime.
Established in Fountain Inn in 2014 by double bassist and luthier, Brian Gencarelli, GBW is recognized as South Carolina’s only string instrument shop specializing in double bass repair, restoration and sales. Electric bass and fretted instruments, repaired by bassist Jacob Bradford, are also a specialty. With a growing client base which includes the University of Georgia School of Music, the University of South Carolina, Spartanburg County Schools, Richland County Schools, Greenville Symphony Orchestra members, and numerous instrumentalists throughout the region, GBW’s newest team member will have plenty to keep him busy. “The caliber of craftsmanship which Matthew brings to his work is something musicians notice the minute they walk through the door,” said GBW owner Brian Gencarelli. “I’m honored that he’s chosen GBW as his ‘home base,’” he said
Gencarelli Bass Works and Fine String Instruments, LLC is located at 114 South Main Street in Fountain Inn. The shop is open by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please call (864) 213-7470.♦
