Model inspired by Gasparo da Salò

This viola emerged as the outcome of drawing inspiration from one of the most versatile makers of the early years of violin making—Gasparo da Salò.

The making of this instrument came at a pivotal moment in our career. Freshly graduated from the Parma School of Violin Making, we embarked on a transformative journey to the United States. This experience expanded our horizons and allowed us to connect with inspiring artists and influential figures in the instrument industry. As a result, we have grown both personally and professionally.

We decided to redesign the scroll and especially the ff-holes rendering the look of this instrument more contemporary.

The sound produced by this viola is harmonious and resonant, while its size makes it suitable for a wide range of players.

Pánta rheî 2021

Info

This viola has a striking two piece back and beautifully flamed ribs. The spruce is from Val di Fiemme, the forest of Stradivari, and is split and not cut to ensure a straight grain.
The sound is rich and very well calibrated from string to string.
The varnish is our signature amber/red oil varnish and really enhances the beauty of the materials.
Back Length 401 mm Upper Bout 198 mmCenter Bout 128 mmLower Bout 247 mm String Length 360 mm
We normally shape the viola neck very similar to our violin neck in order to make it as comfortable as possible to play. This model is on the shorter side but is subsequently wide to ensure the ideal volume of the soundbox.
If you decide to commission this model there are many ways in which we can personalize a violin just for you. Firstly if you decide to follow the construction from start to finish you can get to pick the set of wood from our selection you like and if you have particular desires in regards to materials we will do our utmost to accomodate your wishes.
If you have special ergonomic needs when it comes to neck shape, string length, set-up ecc. those are also things we can figure out together.
Gasparo Bertolotti or as he is best known Gasparo da Salò was born in 1542. He is one of the earliest master luthiers who alongside Andrea Amati is credited with giving the modern violin its shape. He was a gifted double bass player and an active member of the Brescian music environment. He apparently survived the plague of 1577 which killed of many prolific musicians and artisans in the Brescian area and lived until 1609. It is believed that his designed was studied Antonio Stradivari and was a source of inspiration for his long model.
Gasparo da Salò’s instruments are characterized by the eclectic and creative freedom of the early master luthiers.