History
The railway station is just a few minutes walk away and there is always plenty of parking nearby, for example, the Civic Centre car park. The premises are on the ground and first floor, tucked away in Station Court behind a small residential block of flats - a fitting peaceful environment for trying instruments.
The old Stocks in the centre of Poulton. |
Below is Harry George, founder of the Violn Shop, showing the first violin he made to Alfredo Campoli during a break in rehearsals when he was still a member of the Hallé Orchestra and Campoli was the guest soloist.
Harry George and Alfredo Campoli. |
The Hallé Orchestra. |
The Hallé Orchestra Blackpool Empress Ballroom in 1962 conducted by Sir. John Barbirolli lead by Martin Milner & Harry George in the violin section.
The Hallé Orchestra. |
Harry George studied violin playing in Manchester at what is now the Royal Northern College of Music. Harry joined the Halle Orchestra in the early 1960s under the musical directorship of Sir John Barbirolli with Martin Milner as leader.
Harry also had a great talent for making instruments, eventually playing on one of his own violins instead of his old Italian Guidantus instrument.
A painting by Sarah Longlands including the last and unfinished violin made by Harry George. |
Harry’s son, Kevin, began working in the business in 1980 after completing his Fine Art degree in Manchester. He developed workshop skills and eventually took over running the business following Harry’s death in November 1981. This decision to keep it a small, friendly family run business has proved very successful.
"The Double Bass" - 1985. Oil painting by Kevin George. |
"At the End of the Day" - detail of a pencil drawing of the workshop by Kevin George. |