Michael Bourassa violin, New York City 2022

Michael Bourassa is a contemporary luthier with over 25 years of experience in repair and restoration. As Senior Restorer and Head of Workshop at Rare Violins of New York, he was entrusted with the care of many of the world's finest instruments. He is sought out by top string players for his ability to derive the utmost in playability and tonal performance from these instruments.

Michael is a specialist in varnish restoration, and specifically in spirit-based varnishes, which he applies conservatively for the protection of fine instruments as well as visual aesthetics. He frequently acts as consultant to restorers and musicians alike.

After seventeen years with Rare Violins of New York, Michael is currently working out of his own studio in New York where his primary focus is the creation of new instruments.