Founder Jack Hill seeks out not only vintage instruments by master luthiers and new basses by the best contemporary makers, but also quality, affordable instruments to satisfy every bassist's needs.

Mr. Hill started as a bow maker and can rehair your existing bow or create a new bow to your specifications.

Any setup or repair required for bowed string instruments can be achieved with JD Hill Music.

McIntosh Basses

Robbie McIntosh has been restoring and making basses for 30 years. Now, with his daughter Helen, they have been making basses that are considered some of the best on the market. In addition to the full sized Montagnana and Busan models, they have been working on creating new basses with slightly smaller, ergonomic dimensions that don’t lose anything in terms of sound.

Arvi Basses

Based in Prince Edward Island, Canada, Kai Arvi is a bassmaker of Finnish descent. Arvi Basses has been in the family since Kai’s father, Vilho began crafting custom instruments in the 1930s. Kai and Vilho Arvi have created over 389 instruments, over 280 of which are double basses. JD Hill Music regularly carries Arvi’s latest basses, many of which come to Jack by way of Kai’s infamous road trips, such as this one. You can read more about the history of Arvi Basses in a piece written by Jack here.

The world of basses is vast and diverse. The maker, materials and history of a particular instrument together can influence the sound, feeling, aesthetics, and value.

Specializing in hand-crafted, historic, and fine instruments priced over $25,000, JD Hill Music provides basses to world-class musicians and orchestras.

Committed to providing high quality instruments for musicians at every stage of their studies and career, JD Hill Music also offers modestly priced basses and unique sizes.

For Purchase

Featured Bows

Customized

If you would like a bow made for you contact me and let me know the specifications you desire. I've had good success with two models: I make in a Vigneron and Deluccia style.