Owen Hojoon Lee

Owen (Hojoon) opened  Universal Musical Instruments in 2002 and has since formed strong relationships with renowned violin workshops across the country. He makes use of his first-hand knowledge and experience to provide accurate and informative advice on customers’ instruments. Additionally, he collaborates with workshops and luthiers in Germany, Korea, and China to import high quality instruments to U.S as a wholesaler.

His passionate curiosity for violin construction led Owen to apprentice under  Amos Hargrave, a distinguished luthier based in Lawrence, KS. Hargrave, himself a student of the late master Rene Morel, instructed Owen in violin making and restoration. Together they handled some of the finest instruments, originating from makers such as Antonio Stradivari, Guarneri Del Gesu, J.B Vuillaume, the Gagliano families, and many more. With diligent effort, Owen established LA Violin Shop in 2011.

Under the leadership of Owen, L.A. Violin Shop is proud to host world-respected, expert appraisers for their annual Authenticate LA event. Clients and patrons are able to visit our flagship location to secure authentication and certifications from appraisers Jean-Francois Raffin, Sylvan Bigot, Yannick Le Canu, Jean-Jacques Rampal, and Jonathan Marolle. More recent ventures include a collaboration with the Colburn School to make our lutherie services accessible to the students of today and the musicians of tomorrow.