Sixth Generation Strings

Sixth Generation Strings Sixth Generation Strings in Saratoga Springs, NY, upholds the Frirsz family's legacy as the world’s oldest line of violin makers.

Our curated collection includes handcrafted soloistic instruments and masterpieces spanning three centuries. Make Your Strings Shape Your World! With six generations of family methods, traditions, and secrets of violin making, we strive to bring classically made string instruments to all levels of players in an accessible, informed, and personalized way.

09/01/2026

Every musician starts somewhere—and we’re proud she started with us. 🎶 Seeing the next generation find their sound is the best part of what we do.
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08/27/2026

If you heard our previous sound test, you know just how choked and dull this 5-string Rudolf Doetsch violin sounded.

This 5-string Rudolf Doetsch arrived with a crooked bridge, an inward tone, and a dull low end. Watch the bench process as we straighten the setup, deep clean, and dial in the soundpost so every register sings.
Head to our previous post to hear the audio comparison! 🔊

08/24/2026

This violin sounded dull and muffled before, but after some TLC and sound adjustments, it sounds so much better, brighter, and more resonant. 🎻✨ Turn the volume up to hear the difference!
Stay tuned to see the full process in our upcoming post.

08/18/2026

Did you know we carry fractional instruments all the way down to a 1/8 size? They’re made for our youngest players taking their very first musical steps—though that didn’t stop us from trying it out for ourselves in the shop. 🎻
Stick around until the end to watch our attempt at playing the tiny 1/8 violin. Who had the best tone: Player 1, 2, or 3? Let us know below!

08/12/2026

Starting the finish on this cello with the ground layer 🎻
The ground varnish isn’t just about color—it seals the wood, protects the spruce and maple, and sets up that deep, resonant golden underglow before any top coats go on.
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08/08/2026

Part 3 of the 1999 Nick Frirsz viola restoration! 🎻 After topographical tracings and closing the open seam, here is a look at the intricate woodwork it takes to get this bassbar removed. Precision and small movements are everything when making these cuts. What’s been your favorite part of this restoration process?

08/05/2026

Details matter. Carefully polishing the finish to protect the wood and make it look as good as it sounds.

From shattered to seamless. 🎻 Swipe to see the results of closing the seam on this beautiful 1999 Nick Frirsz viola! Wha...
08/01/2026

From shattered to seamless. 🎻 Swipe to see the results of closing the seam on this beautiful 1999 Nick Frirsz viola! What do you think of the final repair?
Need some work done on your own string instrument? Come by the shop for any fixes, setups, or restorations!

Just in: A rare opportunity for the discerning cellist.This beautiful 1972 cello by Marten Cornelissen (Northampton, Mas...
07/30/2026

Just in: A rare opportunity for the discerning cellist.
This beautiful 1972 cello by Marten Cornelissen (Northampton, Massachusetts), Opus 133, is now available at Sixth Generation Strings.
Cornelissen (1936–2021) was one of the most respected and prolific American makers of his generation. Dutch-born and trained in the Czech tradition, he settled in Northampton in the late 1960s and went on to create more than 600 instruments. His cellos—many modeled after great Stradivaris such as the “Countess of Stanlein”—have been played by artists including Bernard Greenhouse, Yehudi Menuhin, and members of leading ensembles worldwide.
This early example from 1972 already shows the clarity of voice, projection, and refined craftsmanship that made his work so sought after.
Available for trial by appointment.
DM or email for details, photos, and pricing.
Located in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Asking price: $40k

07/28/2026

Behind the scenes! 🎻 Today we’re tackling two bass bar cracks on this beautiful 1999 Nick Frirsz Asymmetric viola. Before we remove the original bass bar, we have to take a topographical tracing and exact measurements to ensure the replacement is a perfect match. Precision is everything! 📏🛠️

Address

480 Broadway Suite LL-10
Saratoga Springs, NY
12866

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 10:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 9:30am - 5pm
Thursday 9:30am - 5pm
Friday 9:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+15188869188

Website

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