At Stearns Violins, the music doesn’t just come from the bows—it comes from the purrs. Our studio is home to four unique feline companions who provide inspiration, moral support, and the occasional nap-time demonstration for our luthiers and guests.
The Welcoming Committee
If you visit Stearns Violins, the first sound you hear might not be a violin—it might be the synchronized purring of our favorite mother-daughter duo. Cinder and her daughter, Ember, take their roles as shop ambassadors very seriously.
From the moment you step through the door, these two are there to provide a warm, furry welcome. They have turned the art of the “meet and greet” into a professional specialty, ensuring that every guest feels right at home before they even see a bow.
Cinder
The Devoted Matron As the mother of the pair, Cinder is the calm, grounding force of the duo. She is a master of the “gentle lean,” often pressing against your leg to offer a silent, steady hello. Cinder has a way of sensing when someone needs a bit of extra comfort while they wait for a repair or browse the gallery.
Ember
The Sprightly Apprentice Following closely in her mother’s paw-steps, Ember is the high-energy half of the team. While she inherited Cinder’s affectionate nature, she adds her own youthful flair to the greeting. She is the first to investigate a new violin case and the most likely to offer a playful chirp to let you know she’s ready for attention.
A Rare Guest Appearance
Every once in a while, curiosity gets the better of her. On those special occasions, Sue will wander out into the main gallery to perform a brief “inspection” of the shop’s visitors.
Sue’s independent spirit is a perfect match for the focused, meticulous work we do here—reminding us all that sometimes the best work is done quietly in the background.
The Quiet Observer: Unlike the welcoming committee, Sue doesn’t demand immediate attention; she prefers to observe the music and the movement from a respectful distance.
The Inventory Executive
If Sue is a rare sight, Gertie is a true studio legend. As the self-appointed manager of the back room, she operates almost entirely “off-camera,” ensuring that the heart of Stearns Violins stays in perfect order.
Gertie’s presence is felt more than it is seen. She takes her responsibilities seriously, specializing in:
Inventory Control: No box goes unopened and no shelf goes uninspected under Gertie’s watch. She knows exactly where everything is (and exactly which spot is the warmest).
If you don’t see Gertie during your visit, don’t worry—she’s definitely seen you, and she’s already cleared you to enjoy the music. She’s simply too busy running the show behind the scenes to stop for an autograph!
Stearns Violins Inc. 