Our Team

David Michie

Believe it or not, David is a real person! When he's not working at the shop or playing violin he loves to go rowing on the Schuylkill River. Crazy as he is, he meets his rowing buddy at 5:00 and is on the river by 5:30. The Center City skyline is just beautiful at that time in the morning when they round the first bend in the river. It's very cool to row when the stars are still out. Before his two sons were born, David was a member of the Philly Pops and played with the Concerto Soloists Chamber Orchestra. For the last 30 years he's been Concertmaster of the Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey. Bridget Kasinskas has been his stand partner the whole time and they love "making beautiful music together". David and his wife, Denise are very proud of their sons, Andrew and Kyle. They are alumni of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and are both gainfully employed! David loves working at the shop and enjoys interacting with his customers. He counts himself very lucky to have the life that he continues to have.

Jennifer Smith

Jen has been working here at the shop for 10 years now (wow that went fast!). She will usually be the first person you speak with if you call or email the shop and is also usually the first person you'll see when you come in. She loves working with our customers whether it be answering questions, suggesting products, or assisting with appointments. She also manages the social media content for us! Jennifer is married and a mom of three adult sons. She has her Bachelor's Degree from Rowan University in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations. As a child she took piano lessons for about 6 years, and also was an avid singer in high school and at her church. When she's not at work, her family and volunteering activities keep her busy. Jen's passion involves dog rescue and she devotes much of her free time in that realm. She and her family have fostered just over 50 dogs in the past 8 years. She has also volunteered at area animal shelters and rescues advocating for the homeless pups in their care. Jen also enjoys outdoor activities and has recently taken up photography as a hobby. She is addicted to sushi and loves to spend time with her friends.

Chris Smith

Chris grew up as a viola student of Gerry Rice and was a member of the Temple Music Prep program, Settlement Music School Chamber Music program, and Philadelphia Youth Orchestra. He started working in the shop on Saturdays during high school in between orchestra rehearsals, and over the summers. He attended Louisiana State University for Viola Performance and graduated with his BA in the winter of 2017. In January of 2020 he became a full time apprentice under David. Outside of work, he plays hockey, hunts, plays guitar, and performs with the Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey with David. He is looking forward to the years ahead working in the shop.