Instrument Type: Viola
Bow Type: —
Year: 1971
Price: Sold
Maker: Vittore Giardinieri
Description: Vittore E. Giardinieri was born in 1909 in Lake Creek, Oregon. Unable to afford a violin, Giardinieri made his own at the age of 19 using tools found off the Sears Roebuck catalogue. Giardinieri continued in his passion and went on to make a total of 405 instruments in his life. Giardinieri was unusual among modern luthiers because he created his instruments from the tree to the final product; cutting his own wood, making his own endpins, and carving his own tail pieces and chin rests. After a prolific career and training several apprentices, Vittore Giardinieri passed away in 2006 at the age of 96. His legacy, however will continue to live on forever. Today, his instruments are played worldwide and four are on permanent display at the Centro Arte Contemporanea in Cavalese, Italy. This particular viola remains in excellent condition. Beautifully flamed wood and a large, rich tone. Back length: 16 1/2 inches.
