Rare String Instruments
and Bows
They are ancient artifacts with rich and intricate histories. The secrets of their creation, perfected by generations of craftsmen from the 16th through the 19th centuries, were lost over the generations that followed. The historical examples that survive today have defied all attempts at modern replication; they may be the only antique tools to outperform their modern counterparts.
About us
Expertise
Valuations
Consultation
Navigating the market for these valuable art objects requires specialized knowledge and experience. Darnton & Hersh BE applies time-honored expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and rigorous discipline to the authentication and valuation of antique instruments and bows.
About us
Knowledge
Experience
Integrity
Darnton & Hersh BE combines over 40 years of experience as a trusted advisor to musicians, collectors, investors, and benefactors worldwide with an unwavering commitment to the highest ethical standards.
Our team
DIRECTOR
Stefan Hersh
Stefan Hersh has been a trusted advisor to musicians, collectors, investors, and arts patrons for over 40 years.
As a performing violinist, Hersh has held key positions in major orchestras such as the Minnesota Orchestra and the Vancouver Symphony. As a chamber musician, he has performed at numerous music festivals in North and South America, Asia, and Europe. As a teacher, he has served as Associate Professor of violin at DePaul and Roosevelt Universities in Chicago.
Stefan Hersh’s involvement in the string instrument trade has paralleled his performing and teaching careers: from international wholesaler, to founder of Hersh Consulting in the 1990s, and managing partner of Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins in Chicago, Illinois, which continues to serve clients around the world to this day. Through Darnton & Hersh BE, Hersh is now readily accessible to the European community.
DIRECTOR
Agnieszka Otworowski
Agnieszka Otworowski brings two decades of experience managing both for-profit and not-for-profit businesses in the United States to Darnton & Hersh BE. In addition to her role as Accounts Manager for the company, she also continues to serve as the accounts manager for the Chicago not-for-profit music incubator, Guarneri Hall NFP. Otworowski is also an accomplished visual artist, who works in two dimensions in oil and acrylic, and three dimensions in acrylic on concrete.