The Maker:

Barak Norman (b.1651, d.1724) was the leading viol maker of his time.  He began making violin family instruments after 1700 at which time his shop was located at St. Paul’s Churchyard in London. This viola was made in 1713 and bears its original label as stated on its certificate of authenticity issued by W.E. Hill & Sons in 1916.  This very rare viola is in excellent condition. Its fingerboard bore the Hill number B881 as stated on the Hill’s certificate of authenticity. They also mention the scroll being the work of Richard Duke.  A dendrochronology report was made by Peter Ratcliff and confirms the date of this viola with the spruce being dated to 1653 (bass side) and 1636 (treble side).

Appearance:

The viola has a gorgeous light brown transparent varnish. The back is 2-pieces with tight horizontal dramatic flames.

Sound and response:

When someone talks about the iconic viola sound, this is the instrument they are talking about. The first thing one would notice while playing this viola is its response. The moment the bow hits the string it sings. It has a robust and powerful C-string with endless depth and color. The speed at which sound can be pulled from the C-string is striking. The faster passages of Walton, Bartok, and Hindemith all feel like a breeze. As you move up the instrument it continues to blossom. The G opens up fully with no effort, but you can still achieve the quietest pianissimo when needed. The beginning of the Arpeggione sonata sounds like a dream. Continuing up the D string immediately encapsulates anyone who hears it. The prelude of Bach’s D minor cello suite or the beginning motive of the Walton concerto require absolute precision and nuance; this viola handles them like no other. Last, but not least, we have the A string. It is so sweet yet so powerful. A sound lacking any harshness that insistently demands the undivided attention of the listener. This viola is ready to influence the career of its next companion, and would serve well in any orchestral, chamber, or solo opportunities.

Materials:

Back- Maple

Belly- Spruce

Specs:

Back length – 418 mm

String length – 362 mm