Mi Vida Strings and Kolstein Music Bring World-Class String Instruments to Colorado

This exceptional string shop partnership will bring fine-quality bowed string instruments, supplies, and accessories from New York to "the Mile High City", Denver.  Mi Vida Strings is celebrating over twelve years of business, while Kolstein is observing its 80th anniversary in 2023.

Both string music establishments have an accomplished luthier manufacturer reputation with the double bass.  Their first encounter was through the 2015 International Society of Bassists worldwide conference.  "I've looked up to and respected Kolstein's leadership in our field," describes Eric Trujillo, Mi Vida Strings Owner.

After virtually corresponding through the pandemic years, Kolstein's President, Manny Alvarez and Eric finally met in person this past August 2022.  An instant bond was made as they shared their humble beginnings, love of family, and passion for music and craftsmanship.  "String musicians from the greater Denver area will become inspired as together, we are bringing their field to a whole new level," explains Michele Trujillo, Co-owner and resident violinist at Mi Vida Strings.  "We have been providing high-end repair, restorations, and custom builds.  And now we can offer a full line of Kolstein student, intermediate, and fine-quality violins, violas, cellos, and double basses.  This puts the best possible instruments and resources from both organizations in the hands of all levels of musicians."

"My friends Michele and Eric at Mi Vida Strings have always been the strongest supporters of the Colorado music community.  Through their craftsmanship, generosity, educational efforts, and hosting of musical events, they have come to be known as the shop that cares deeply.  Now in this exciting new collaboration with Kolstein, Mi Vida Strings will become an international presence, and a destination for bassists everywhere.  I'm excited to see what the future holds with Westminster, Colorado becoming Bass Player Central!"--Brad Goode, Associate Professor of Jazz Studies, The University of Colorado, Jazz Recording Artist.

Manny Alvarez says that Mi Vida Strings is becoming the inaugural select member of The Kolstein Collective:  An exclusive fraternity of prestigious string music luthier retailers who have attained the highest standards in string music.  "When a string music student, an amateur, or professional musician enters Mi Vida Strings in Colorado, The Kolstein Collective will provide that customer with access to a comprehensive inventory."

Kolstein operates two locations.  It's manufacturing headquarters and warehouse is in Baldwin, New York.  Kolstein's showroom, presentation, and hospitality center is in New York City, adjacent to the landmark Marriott Essex House, less than a minute from Carnegie Hall, several blocks from Lincoln Center, and New York's Broadway theaters.  Mi Vida Strings currently operates from its storefront in the historic section of Westminster, Colorado, just a few minutes north of Denver.

The two will kick off their new partnership with a "Bass Showcase", November 28-30, 2022 at the "new" Dazzle, one of the world's top 100 jazz clubs, at their new renovated space at 1080 14th Street, Denver.  There will be two days of bass instrument auditions, and the nights will feature double bassists in concert.  The evening show for the 28th will be invite-only for Dazzle supporters featuring violinist Monique Roberts.  The evening of the 29th will feature world-class musicians such as: Bijoux Barbosa, Alejandro Castano, Roberto Vally, Sonya Walker, Ken Walker, and several more special guests.  All prospective students, educators, and professionals in all genres are encouraged to make an open, free reservation for the daytime auditions.  Musicians can play the bass of their dreams in the new intimate Dazzle venue.  And everyone is invited to enjoy the music on 11-29-22.

For more information go to: www.kolstein.com and https://www.facebook.com/MiVidaStrings/.