Doug Reid

Doug Reid is a career electric violinist, and performs in diverse styles, including gypsy, jazz, western swing, rock, fusion... anything he can get his hands on!  He spent twenty-five years touring nationally with the greats of country music and shared the stage with Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Alabama, The Bellamy Brothers, Hank Williams, Jr., The Judds, members of the Texas Playboys (including fiddlers Johnny Gimble and Joe Holley), The Kingston Trio.  During a remarkably long stint not on the road, Doug served as Featured Performer and Music Director of the Jimm Stafford Show in Branson, Missouri for seven years from 1990 to 1996. Doug's formal education included studies in jazz and arranging at North Texas State University.Doug returned to his roots in Vermont several years ago and is currently active with several Vermont-based bands when he isn't working with Vermont Violins. 

Doug is an expert in the field of electric performance, sound reinforcement, and sound effect processing.  While his professional career focusses on the genres of swing and jazz, he is a proficient in many styles including classical and celtic.  He also maintains an active teaching studio and, with Vermont Violins he enjoys helping folks find that special instrument for all levels of player: the beginner to the advanced.

Paul Ruscak

Paul Ruscak will be taking Mary’s place as the full-time front-end employee at the end of this month. Paul comes from upstate New York and recently graduated from the Crane School of Music, where he majored in music. He plays both violin and viola proficiently and enjoys playing neo- and modern classical music. Having just moved to Barre last week, he looks forward to learning all about living in Vermont. Although he has spent the past few years serving people in a different way – by being a cook in various venues – Paul is excited to have a job where he can actively use his knowledge of music to serve people. He has a great interest in helping people find the right instrument and bow for their needs and playing style, so don’t hesitate to call on his help!