Casebere Violins

Apr 2024

SGI International or Soka Gakkai International ( Value Creation Society) is a worldwide organization with over eleven million members promoting peace, culture, and education in society active in 192 countries focusing on global issues from a Buddhist perspective. The goal of SGI Nichiren Buddhism is to enable each person to become happy. SGI International is one of the world's largest peace-building, anti-war organizations advocating "No First Use" of nuclear weapons. In thirteenth-century Japan, Nichiren, a Buddhist reformer, established the practice of chanting " Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" (Devotion to the Mystic Law of Cause and Effect) as the means for all people to bring forth their inherent Buddha-nature, a life state characterized by limitless reserves of courage, wisdom, and compassion. Nichiren regarded "Myoho-renge-kyo," the title of the Lotus Sutra, as its essence and added "Nam" to indicate devotion to its principles. When we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, we can transform even the most fundamental, inescapable sufferings of life and death into a life embodying the virtues of eternity, happiness, true self, and purity. SGI members chant to the "Gohonzon," a mandala inscribed by Nichiren that embodies the Law of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. "Gohonzon" means "object of fundamental respect or devotion" and serves as a spiritual mirror to perceive the true nature of our lives and bring forth the inexhaustible life force of Buddhahood. The SGI'S central activity is the monthly discussion meeting where members share experiences, study Buddhism and encourage one another to establish indestructible happiness. If we may be of assistance to you in any way, or if you would like to learn more about our organization, please visit our website at www.sgi-usa.org.*

Mar 2019

John is a super nice man to work with, and is very knowledgeable at what he does! Great, clean shop with a nice selection of instruments, accessories, and pretty much anything else you'd need for your violin or cello! This was my first visit, and I ended up renting a violin. Thanks John!

Oct 2018

John takes his time and explains everything to you about your violin. He does not recommend an upgrade (bow or strings) unless he truly thinks it is absolutely necessary. He is a outstanding luthier.