Derek McDonald is a luthier that resides in Boulder, CO and has been servicing the student and professional string community in the Front Range for over a decade. Derek specializes in repair and restoration of all violin family instruments and specifically focuses on the importance of set-up, playability, and quality of sound, bringing each instrument to their full potential. Derek is not only a luthier, but also a professional musician who performs in many of the professional orchestras in the area including the Colorado Ballet Orchestra, Boulder Chamber Orchestra, and Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra, among others, and understands the importance of a well-playing and incredible sounding instrument, how it helps achieve a higher level of musicianship and enjoyment to the player, and elevating the overall experience of performing.

Derek works from his workshop in his home that he shares with his two beautiful daughters, his fiancée, and his best shop assistant Mini (his sleepy and very lovable dog).