Bearden Violin Shop was founded in St. Louis by P.C. Bearden in 1943 and established a fine reputation for restoration and violin making. After his retirement in 1963, his son Gene Bearden, former violinist for the St. Louis Symphony, became the owner of the business and moved the shop to its present location. Gene Bearden began dealing in old master instruments including those of Stradivari, Guarnari and Amati and placed these instruments in the hands of many professional players as well as collectors. In 1975, he was inducted into the International Society of Violin and Bow Makers and is a member of the Appraisers Association of America. He is now assisted by his son Gregory Bearden, graduate of the Chicago School of Violin Making, who now has over 20 yrs experience in repair, restorations and violin making. The shop specializes in sales and restorations and the making of new instruments.