Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Reuning.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am from a musical family in upstate NY and played the cello from an early age. At age 12, I was invited to become an apprentice in a violin shop in Philadelphia which my parents frequented. Together with my parents, I began repairing and dealing in violins while I was in high school. I later bought the business from them when I was about 20. I relocated the business to Boston in 1994. From that point, the business has grown into one of the leading dealerships in antique violins in the world.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a lot of work to run a business of this scope. At one time I had 28 employees but we have now focused on the higher end of the market and have a very elite staff of just 12 people. My personal time is now considerably freed up to handle these beautiful objects instead of being so heavily occupied with management and personnel responsibilities.
This is a business where one’s reputation is hard earned and until one gets to a certain level it is hard to have the trust of the important clients. I feel fortunate to have arrived in a position where this trust is more often given to me.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Reuning & Son Violins – what should we know?
We deal in antique violins, violas and cellos made primarily in Italy during the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. We are known for our expertise: that we can identify who made certain of these objects and can authenticate them. We are also known for our restoration shop which is considered to be among the very best in the world.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Building knowledge through hard work, organization, and desire. Earning trust through honest dealing.
Contact Info:
- Address: 419 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02116 - Website: www.reuning.com
- Phone: 617-262-1300
- Email: info@reuning.com
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Joe Wargo
June 5, 2017 at 2:59 pm
I have known Chris since he began in HS. Always serious and a hard worker. He spent many hours driving to Philly to apprentice. His adjustments and work were always high quality! Congrats Chris. Great article!