The Makers:

The Virzi Brothers, Giovanni and Giuseppe, were born in Palermo, Italy, sons and students of Rosario Virzi.  They emigrated to Manhattan, New York, around 1912–1913. In 1914, they established their workshop, where they began producing fine stringed instruments.

The brothers are known for their patented invention, the “Virzi Tone-Producer”, an additional soundboard precisely fitted and attached beneath the bass bar.  This innovation earned the Virzi Brothers First Prize and a Diploma of Honor at the 1925 Rome Exposition.

The Virzi Brothers offered seven grades of violins, in addition to master-grade instruments that were crafted personally by the brothers. The seven grades were featured in their brochure “Virzi Violin Book” and were fitted with the patented Virzi Tone-Producer.

There is evidence that this violin had a Virzi bar previously, therefore it was one of the 7 levels, most likely the top level “Virzi Type”.

Appearance:

This violin showcases the beautiful reddish-brown varnish over golden ground. The top is carved from a two-piece, fine-to-medium grained spruce, and the back is of gorgeous, flamed one-piece back.

Sound & Feel:

It has a warm, focused tone with a rich, robust lower register and a refined, singing quality in the upper register. It offers strong projection and an even, responsive voice across all strings.

Materials:

Belly: Spruce, Two-Piece

Back: Maple, One-Piece

Specs:

Back length: 35.6 cm

String length: 32.7 cm