Steffen Nowak, Maker of fine Violins, Violas and Cellos in baroque and modern style

Viola inspired by Gasparo da Salo, Brescia   16.5 '' (420mm), string length 376mm   SOLD

This design is  based on  viola proportions by Gasparo da Salo.
Many of this makers tenor Violas only survived being  cut down in length, and often altered in width as well.
The challenge was in designing a 16.5 inch model with a manageable stop and string length and yet maintaining its proportions.
Compared with the slightly larger 16 3/4 Da Salo model I made in 2007, this has the same string length  but with a slightly reduced width and a more rounded top bout, facilitating left hand shifts.
The varnish is very lightly shaded  and of a golden orange colour, the 1 piece slab back of deeply flamed sycamore, the front of medium wide Alpine spruce.
The sound even and colourful, and both players found it easy and comfortable to play.

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