...During the construction of this instrument, the season changed from beautiful fall leaf colors and fine weather to wind and rain storms. These blew off many leafs and marked the arrival of the still-warm fall storms as this viola was nearing completion...thus the name!
...The back, my professional violin tester, Ron Kilde (of Salem, Oregon) commented that he thought it was the prettiest back he could remember seeing on a violin. It is a fine example of full flamed French grown maple (150 year old tree by tree ring count).
...European silver spruce top with convention grain orientation.
...Although the top plate measures 14 1/8", the sound is relatively big. My instructor commented that 'this is fun to play' and that he thought it sound better than some larger viola models he has heard.
...I have applied a special varnish ground which removes much of the unwanted high overtones; leaving a pleasing pure sound. The varnish is also special European flexible instrument varnish ($800/ gallon) that adds to the sound color.
...This is a from-the-drawing board instrument design and the neck angle is special so that force of the strings downward is directly through the center of the bridge.
...This should be an excellent instrument for a student who wants a true viola sound without the full sized viola bulk. It might be useful in chamber music were a huge volume is not necessary.
...The tone is beautiful, and the varnish full of life...
...price is $ 2,500... play it for yourself!
