Tim Barnes, Co-Owner of BarnesViolins LLC. brings over 20 years of experience in the violin business as Co-Owner of Barnes Violins, alongside his wife, Virginia. His background as a professional violist, educator, and industry expert gives him a rare depth of insight when guiding musicians in selecting the right instrument and bow.
Tim studied viola at the Blair School of Music in Nashville and is a graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His teachers include Kathryn Plummer, Milton Thomas, Louis Kievman, and Isadore Tinkelman. During his conservatory years, he performed on exceptional Italian instruments, including a Eugenio Degani and a Vincenzo Sannino, both on loan from the Colburn Foundation.
As a performer, Tim has held principal viola positions with the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, Atlantic Classical Orchestra, and Palm Beach Pops. He was also a founding fellow of the New World Symphony under Michael Tilson Thomas. His extensive performance career includes major productions such as Phantom of the Opera, Sunset Boulevard, and Miss Saigon at premier venues including the Kravis Center and Broward Center, as well as the national tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
* Tim Barnes of BarnesViolins *
Tim has performed under legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein at the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival and has recorded with internationally recognized artists including Michael Jackson, Gloria Estefan, the Bee Gees, Jon Secada, Alejandro Sanz, and Ed Calle.
In addition to performing, Tim has been a dedicated teacher in South Florida since 1988. He has served on the executive board of the American Federation of Musicians, Local 655, and is a member of the Violin Society of America.
His combined experience as a performer, teacher, and violin shop owner allows him to uniquely understand the needs of players at every level—helping each client find an instrument they truly connect with.
“All Roads Lead to Barnes Violins.”
