Stewart Pollens

Who is Stewart Pollens?

Trained as a violin and keyboard-instrument maker, Stewart Pollens served as the Conservator of Musical Instruments at the Metropolitan Museum of Art from 1976–2006. His work there included the restoration and maintenance of the museum's encyclopedic collection of over 5,000 instruments, as well as research, writing, and lecturing on the collection.

After leaving the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Pollens formed Violin Advisor, LLC, a consulting firm that advises purchasers of fine violins. He continues to conduct research and write on the subject of musical instruments, including an article published in the May 2009 issue of The Strad on a scientific analysis of Stradivari's instrument varnish. Pollens is frequently interviewed by publications that most recently include The New York Times and Slate.

In addition to his work at Violin Advisor, Stewart Pollens restores stringed and early keyboard instruments for private collectors and museums