New Instruments for the Highest Standards

Our Violas

 

Barbara Gschaider is internationally regarded as an expert in crafting violas of exceptional tonal and playing qualities. 

 

Barbara planing a viola front


"Violin-making is my job - the viola is my passion."

checking a viola arching
rougharching

"Although my profession is officially called violin maker, my passion lies with the viola. Its lyrical, fairy tale tonal character captivates me, and I am fascinated by the construction challenges it presents. The viola, unlike the violin or cello, was not constructed as a solo instrument. This means that historical models must be adapted to meet the demands of modern performance.

As a dedicated amateur violist myself, I am familiar with the tonal nuances and technical challenges that this remarkable instrument presents!"

 



Sounds

 "A dark, sonorous tone is essential to me, combined with excellent carrying power. By carrying power I do not simply mean volume, but the ability of an instrument's sound to project and retain its character in large concert halls and within an ensemble. Across the entire register, the tone remains balanced and warm, even at the highest dynamic levels."

 

traditional plate tuning viola


varnishing a viola

Craftsmanship & Varnish

Every viola is crafted by hand and finished with our own varnish, prepared according to a traditional Cremonese recipe.