Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Samantha Cortez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Samantha, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose early—at just 14 years old—when I first began my journey as a violin maker. What started as a fascination with the craftsmanship of instruments evolved into something much deeper over the years. Being immersed in the violin world, I came to understand that my true purpose wasn’t just about making or restoring instruments; it was about serving the musicians who bring them to life.
Whether it’s through a delicate restoration, guiding someone to the right instrument, or leading an educational workshop, I’ve always been drawn to helping others succeed. I naturally gravitate toward roles where I can support and empower people, especially young musicians. That’s what led me to teaching as well—it’s another extension of that same purpose: to use my experience and knowledge to make a meaningful impact.
For me, being a violin maker is not just a profession. It’s a calling to contribute to something larger than myself—supporting artistry, fostering growth, and helping others achieve their musical dreams.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Working as a luthier at the Texas Violin Shop has been a fast-paced, deeply rewarding experience. Every day brings a new challenge—whether it’s restoring a cherished instrument or helping a young musician find their perfect fit. Serving the vibrant music community of San Antonio has been an incredible honor, and I’m thrilled to be part of something so meaningful.
With our recent grand opening in June 2025, we are excited to expand our reach and continue supporting musicians at every stage of their journey. The most fulfilling part of this job is not just bringing instruments back to life—but getting to share every step of this journey with my best friend and husband by my side.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Invest deeply in three areas: build a strong foundation of in-depth, hands-on experience—especially in instrument identification—develop genuine relationships within your community, and learn the ins and outs of managing a business. These have been the most impactful parts of my journey, and together, they create the stability, trust, and knowledge needed for long-term success.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the past year, we’ve experienced significant growth—both professionally and personally. We transitioned from operating out of a small, home-based workshop to searching for and preparing our very first retail space. From painting walls and cleaning floors to decorating and making the space feel like our own, it’s been a hands-on labor of love. We’ve also focused on building a strong team by training new staff and creating a welcoming, knowledgeable environment for our customers. One of the most rewarding aspects has been making new connections in Universal City. The local community has truly embraced us, and their support has played a huge role in helping us grow and feel rooted in this new chapter.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.texasviolinshop.com
- Instagram: @texasviolinshop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/texasviolinshop
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-texas-violin-shop-universal-city
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