Ian Sweetman viola, Hamilton, New Zealand, 1988, 16 1/8"

Made at the height of his instrument-making career, this fine viola by Ian Sweetman, modelled after Ian’s favourite maker Guarneri del Gesu, embodies all of his expertise to create an instrument with a lovely tonal range, from tis gutsy lower registers to a warm, clear A string, that doesn’t fail to please. Ian’s fascination with tone production extended to his bridges; this one bears his handwritten measurements, recording his final adjustments in the search for the best sound and playability