A maker of fine violins and violas

Violin and violin family instrument making by Jennifer Halenar in Nashville, TN.

Jennifer Halenar is a skilled luthier based in Nashville, Tennessee, with over 23 years of experience in instrument repair, setup, and making. Like many in her field, her journey with the violin family began at a young age as a player—an early passion she continues to enjoy today.

Living and working in Nashville—often referred to as the “Third Coast”—has immersed Jennifer in a rich and diverse musical culture, allowing her to collaborate with musicians across a wide range of genres. While she specializes in crafting traditional violins and violas, she has also spent the past decade building five-string violins, a unique hybrid instrument that blends the ranges of the violin and viola. Jennifer takes pride in supporting this growing niche and meeting the evolving needs of modern string players.

The Instruments

At J. Halenar Violins, the instruments are wonderful examples of fine craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Each violin, viola, and 5-string violin is carefully handcrafted by Jennifer Halenar, a skilled luthier of over 20 years, using only the finest materials to ensure a superior quality of sound and playability. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a passionate student, these instruments embody a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Discover the artistry and precision that goes into each of these creations, and experience the true essence of music with a J. Halenar instrument.

Four and Five stringed violins start at $12,000 USD, Violas start at $14,000 USD

Contact Jennifer regarding availability or to discuss a commission

Guarneri del Gesu model violin

One of my favorite makers to model after, Bartolomeo Guisseppe Antonio Guarneri, also known as Gaurneri ‘del Gesú’, 1698-1744 of Cremona, Italy. These violins tend more towards a robust, earthy and deeper tone. Of the many Guarneri del Gesú models to follow, I tend towards building the Haddock of 1735, Plowden of 1735, and the Cannon of 1743 as a 4 or 5-string violin.

Giuseppe Guarerni del Gesù model violin on a black background with one fine tuner and Pirastro strings — J Halenar 2014 Plowden Guarneri del Gesù violin

Gasparo Bertolotti da Salò model viola

My original intent with making this smaller (15 1/2") viola was that it would be great for violinist/violists. Wonderfully, viola players appreciate its smaller stature that doesn't compromise at all on sound. Brescia violas have always been well regarded for their sound, but also their often-times exquisite double-purfling inlay.

Antonio Stradivari model violin

Everyone knows the name Stradivarius when it comes to violins. A well-timed culmination of extreme artistry, highly-executed woodworking with fantastic materials created the mythic proportions of one maker's instruments. Stridavarius, or simply "Strads" as they're often referred to, are the classic of classic Italian violin making. A few examples of models enjoyed by my clients include the 1721 Kruse and the 1704 Betts.

Guarneri del Gesu Cannon 5-string model violin

J Halenar 2026 Guarneri Cannon model 5-String Violin

Throughout most of his career, Niccolò Paganini owned and loved the original Il Cannone Guarneri del Gesu violin from 1743. Its build is more robust than other known violins of that style and time period. The combination of attributes that gave that instrument so much power and poise have created an iconic violin after which to model the J. Halenar 5-string violin.

This violin is currently available. For trial inquiries, please submit your contact here.