“Fleming Instrument Co.” 14 ½” Stradivari copy viola, China 2005

With its deep ribs and full arching, this small viola, inspired by a 1715 violin on Antonio Stradavari, has a surprisingly full resonant tone, with a bell-like clarity on the upper strings.  The neck is slightly long in relation to the body stop length allowing easy access to the upper registers for younger players.  A vividly flamed maple back and attractive spruce tone wood for the belly make this instrument a very appealing choice for a player moving onto their first viola.