{"title":"8th Contemporary American Makers Exhibition - Viola","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 17px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-kerning: none;\"\u003eMetzler Violin Shop is proud to present the 8th Contemporary American Makers Exhibition and Sale, 2026.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 17px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-kerning: none;\"\u003eThe purpose of these events is to present both established and emerging makers, and to highlight the breadth of instrument and bow craftsmanship found throughout the Americas.  This exhibition will include makers from Canada, Mexico, and the United States.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"douglas-c-cox-15-3-4-viola-brattleboro-vermont-201","title":"Douglas Cox 15 5\/8\" viola, Brattleboro, Vermont, 2016, #912 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/YR7tyDPFi9w?si=_jE0ropWF1YFo5dm\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"x-el x-el-span c1-6c c1-6d c1-b c1-c c1-d c1-e c1-f c1-g\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe height=\"315\" width=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0uv9tYoHjwQ?si=YUu-UK5A7qk5VHfT\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003edependable, warm, resonant\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola is a joy to play—ideal for someone who is looking for a smaller instrument without sacrificing quality of tone and power. Its versatile enough for solo performances, and can also blend well in chamber groups or larger symphonies. This maker is known particularly for his excellent violas, which are sought out by violists everywhere for their consistency and versatility. This viola is made of well aged North American grown wood. The back is cut on the quarter from two pieces of maple with handsome medium width flames descending very slightly from center joint. The neck and ribs are of maple of narrower flame than that of the back. The table is of two pieces of Engelmann spruce from British Columbia of very narrow growth. There is a filled sap pocket on the bass side of the tailpiece. The varnish is of an orange-brown color and is shaded and imitated. The fittings are of boxwood with lighter trim. made of well aged North American grown wood. The back is cut on the quarter from two pieces of maple with handsome medium width flames descending very slightly from center joint. The neck and ribs are of maple of narrower flame than that of the back. The table is of two pieces of Engelmann spruce from British Columbia of very narrow growth. There is a filled sap pocket on the bass side of the tailpiece. The varnish is of an orange-brown color and is shaded and imitated. The fittings are of boxwood with lighter trim.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior Label Reads: \"Douglas C. Cox, Brattleboro, Vermont, 2016, #912\" and is branded and initialed inside. \u003cbr\u003eLength: 398 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bout: 188 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle Bout: 135 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bout: 244 mm\u003cbr\u003eRib Height: 36-38mm\u003cbr\u003eString Length: 358mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"x-el x-el-span c1-6c c1-6d c1-b c1-c c1-d c1-e c1-f c1-g\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDouglas Cox\u003c\/strong\u003e (1948-) is a contemporary American luthier based in Brattleboro, Vermont who trained at the State Violin Making School in Mittenwald, Germany in the late 1960s. Cox returned to the United States and was head of repair and chief restorer for Boston's J. Bradley Taylor, Inc. for a decade, attending to some of the finest instruments in New England and servicing the violins for the region's professional musicians. Since 1981, Cox has focused on crafting his own instruments, building over 1,000 over the course of his career. He has earned numerous awards from the Violin Society of America and his instruments are played by musicians worldwide.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/coxviolins.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/coxviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":50818594570513,"sku":"VA1575-C109-14","price":28000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/metzler-viola-douglas-cox-va1575-c109-14-front.jpg?v=1734533528"},{"product_id":"jeffrey-haas-16-1-4-viola-zukerman-albany-new-york-2024-metzler-violins","title":"Jeffrey Haas 16 1\/4\" viola, \"Zukerman\", Albany, New York, 2024 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/QFOk5f6fo2Y?si=7sNgFz7jfS_iahjZ\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eresponsive, clear, soulful\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a beautiful sound and is responsive and clear, making it a delight to play. A gorgeous wide flame figure falls from the center joint of the two-piece maple back on this instrument. Similar flames run along the ribs, with the lower ribs’s figures in the counter direction. The neck and scroll bear a strong medium curl. This viola has a beautiful apricot varnish over a golden ground with shading and antiquing thoughtfully executed by the maker.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Jeffrey Haas \/ Albany, New York \/ Faciebat Anno 2024”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 413 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 194 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 135 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 241 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u2028Jeffrey Haas\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary luthier born and based in Albany, New York. A former research and design engineer for over three decades, Haas began as an apprentice with the late Geoffrey Ovington and also Michael Darnton. Haas continually participates in the Violin Society of America’s Violinmaking Workshops in Oberlin. Haas makes a particular project of locating the finest aged European tonewood and finishes his instruments with traditional varnish. In addition to crafting instruments, Haas is an active fiddle player in the Siena College Orchestra, the Capital District Megaband, and regional Celtic groups.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53054934974737,"sku":"VA1625-H154-4","price":9500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/AGZFront1.jpg?v=1769131718"},{"product_id":"copy-of-antonio-rizzo-16-5-viola-torrance-california-2024-age-98","title":"Antonio Rizzo 16 1\/2\" viola, Torrance, California, 2025, age 98","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/AoGWnWreXjw?si=vf18zoYXZ3vPFniU\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003efocused, resonant, even\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis viola has a focused sound that opens with each note, giving the tone an excellent quality, even across all four strings. The gold varnish is over a gold ground, giving this instrument a striking color. It's narrow flames fall slightly from the center joint of the two-piece maple back with slightly plainer wood on the ribs, neck, and scroll.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Antonio Rizzo da Torrance \/ fece nell anno 2025 \/ 173 di anni 98\" with the luthier's signature\u003cbr\u003eLength: 416 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 197 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 137 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 245 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaestro Antonio Rizzo \u003c\/strong\u003e(1927- ) is a contemporary violinmaker, engineer, and inventor. He has close to four decades of experience making fine quality instruments using the Italian influence on style, character and tone quality. Maestro Rizzo was tutored by several master-makers in Italy and in the United States, acquiring the traditional techniques of violin making of the Italian schools. He has received over 30 premier awards for his workmanship and tone quality of his instruments. At age 99, he is one of the oldest active violinmakers in the United States, continuing making fine instruments, sounding better than ever. He recently won 1st Place Gold for Viola Tone and 2nd Place Silver for Violin Tone from the VMAAI Competition Mr. Rizzo was a former President of the Southern California Association of Violin Makers. He has conducted many presentations and seminars on violin making, emphasizing construction techniques, varnish making, setup and adjustments for sound quality. He is also a member of the Violin Society of America, and several other violin makers associations. He has made 176 instruments, which include 142 violins, 13 violas and 21 cellos.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.arviolins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.arviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53099448172817,"sku":"VA165-R1098-6","price":19000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/Va173a.jpg?v=1770238669"},{"product_id":"a-tzankow-16-1-8-viola-2025-lakewood-colorado-usa-metzler-violins","title":"Alexander Tzankow 16 1\/8\" viola, 2025, Lakewood, Colorado, USA | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/M0z9Ut5AbvM?si=c7N5oNVUtvTQSGjz\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003epowerful, rich, full\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eThis viola has a lovely projection and is a delight to play. It's a wonderful selection for anyone seeking out a professional viola of mid-size.\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eThe straight grain two-piece back in a relatively plain figure. The dark auburn varnish brings out slightly more pronounced flames running along the ribs, neck, and scroll.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e This instrument has been lovingly antiqued by its maker, revealing a golden ground.\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eInterior label reads: “Alexander Tzankow \/ Geigen- und Lautenmacher in \/ Lakewood Anno 2025” with the maker’s signature.\u003cbr\u003eLength: 411 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 196 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 143 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts:\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e248 mm\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlexander Tzankow\u003c\/strong\u003e (1970- ) is a contemporary German luthier who grew up near Saarbrücken along the border of France. Tzankow had a musical family and began studying violin at six years of age then focused on the viola as a teenager. While at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz in Cologne studying viola, Tzankow found an interest in violin making and earned his diploma at the distinguished Staatliche Berufsfachschule für Musikinstrumentenbau in Mittenwald in 1996. Tzankow proceeded to work in several violin ateliers of note, including Michael Becker in Chicago, Stam \u0026amp; zn in Utrecht, and M\u0026amp;R Weisshaar \u0026amp; Son in Los Angeles. He now runs his own workshop outside of Denver, Colorado.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53099638030609,"sku":"VA16-T50-7","price":20000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/IMG_7240.jpg?v=1772133340"},{"product_id":"william-atwood-16-1-16-viola-opus-79-2025-bonny-doon-california-metzler-violins","title":"William Atwood 16 1\/16\" viola, Opus 79, 2025, Bonny Doon, California | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CCVv4ASlOsc?si=bUSAiflYgUQ50MMA\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003ebold, bright, smooth\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola is lovely to play, with a bold sound that would blend well in a chamber group or symphony. Its single-piece maple back has a striking quilted flame figure, brought out by an amber varnish over a golden ground. The ribs, neck, and scroll are comprised of the same material.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “William Atwood \/ Bonny Doon, California \/ Opus 79 Anno 2025”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 408 mm (16 1\/16”)\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 195 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 135 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 244 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Atwood\u003c\/strong\u003e (1948- ) is a contemporary Massachusetts-born luthier based outside of Santa Cruz, California. Atwood’s accountant father made French Provincial wood pieces in his spare time. Atwood began learning violin at the age of eight, and earned his undergraduate and doctoral degrees in particle physics, eventually working full-time at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center. In the early 1980s, Atwood earned was a post-doctoral honoree in Europe, where he acquired aged wood to build stringed instruments. He built his first violin in 1983, with many more in the years since. His instruments are a marriage between his knowledge of physics and love of woodworking, which he learned from his father, including investigations of the physics of the violin—a topic upon which Atwood has published multiple academic articles. In 1996, Atwood apprenticed under Tom Croen. After his retirement from Stanford in 1999, Atwood made stringed instruments full-time until he began to teach at University of California at Santa Cruz. Upon retiring from that post in 2016, Atwood focused on instruments full-time, making over 70 violins and violas. His remarkable cache of wood includes spruces, maples, and pear woods from Bavaria, Switzerland, the Baltic region and the Pacific Northwest, with some approaching a century old.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/atwoodsviolins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/atwoodsviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/instagram.com\/atwoods_violins\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttp:\/\/instagram.com\/atwoods_violins\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53122480341265,"sku":"VA16-A60-7","price":12000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/IMG_6183.heic?v=1770924982"},{"product_id":"stanley-kiernoziak-15-3-4-viola-one-piece-back-chicago-il-2025-metzler-violins","title":"Stanley Kiernoziak 15 3\/4\" viola, one-piece back, Chicago, IL, 2025 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/29j2dnngMCY?si=TSnz1IM-Pf_v0U4C\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ewarm, resonant, sweet\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola is easy to play with a buttery feel with a particularly resonant lower register. The back maple back is a slab cut with a unique figure of a subtle flame across its single-piece. The ribs, neck, and scroll are show more pronounced flames. The auburn varnish is beautifully applied over a wheat ground.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Stanley Kiernoziak \/ Chicago 2025” and bears the maker’s signature and stamp\u003cbr\u003eLength: 401 mm (15 3\/4”)\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 196 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 142 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 243 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStanley Kiernoziak is a contemporary maker who was born in Poland and works out of Chicago. Kiernoziak graduated from the Polish Violin Making School in Nowy Targ, Poland and joined the Polish Union of Artist Violin Makers in 1985. Four years later, Kiernoziak moved to Chicago and joined the William Harris Lee \u0026amp; Co. atelier, working closely with the luthiers William Whedbee and Tetsuo Matsuda. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSince moving to the United States, Kiernoziak has earned several awards from the Violin Society of America including a Silver Medal for Cello Tone, several certificates for the violin, viola, cello, quartet quality. The Violin Maker’s Association of Arizona International competition has given Kiernoziak 10 Gold Medals and 2 Silver Medals for violin and viola, as well as Grand Champion. He also won First Place for Tone at the Exhibition of Modern Violas and Bows at the American Viola Society Festival and 47th International Viola Congress.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter four decades of making stringed instruments, Kiernoziak has crafted over 50 violins, 100 cellos, and 300 violas. While accomplished in all of his stringed instruments, Kiernoziak is one of the most prolific and sought-after viola makers of today. His instruments are known for their warm tonal quality with both focus and complexity and characteristically strong projection. His instruments are played by professionals in the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and members of the Juilliard String Quartet and the Terra String Quartet, among others.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53142543171857,"sku":"VA1575-K122-4","price":19000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/att.X_xaU2DpQteAb3W3RpeA7gc4UIcY5Olk2_AC-Q9dEAU.jpg?v=1772139076"},{"product_id":"ute-zahn-15-5-da-salo-model-viola-2023-minneapolis-mn-usa-metzler-violins","title":"Ute Zahn 15 1\/2\" \"da Salo\" model viola, 2023, Minneapolis, MN, USA | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/WII7qd3WJe8?si=Jme3xHxxoobAGBBV\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003esweet, lush, smooth\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola’s lush and versatile timbre shines through with little effort, and it has a particularly lovely alto register. An excellent instrument for someone searching for a smaller viola without sacrificing tone. Modeled after a 1580 Gasparo da Salò viola, the body of this instrument is a unique as its sound, with beautiful double purfling, wide bouts, and a pronounced slope to its single-piece half slab cut poplar back. The ribs of crafted from the same material, while its neck and scroll are of flamed American maple. The luthier also honored the 16th century Brescian style and history in her thoughtful antiquing and shading, including craquelé on its apricot varnish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Ute Zahn \/ Minneapolis 2023”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 396 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 201 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 140 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 248 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUte Zahn\u003c\/strong\u003e (1964- ) is a contemporary Germany luthier based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Beginning to study music at an early age, Zahn was born into a musical family. She constructed her first violin at eighteen, and began to study the craft in earnest. In 1987, Zahn graduated with distinction from the Newark School of Violin Making in England, then working as a maker and restorer the Beverley Music Centre in East Yorkshire. Zahn then moved to Hong Kong, setting up her own shop as a luthier and restorer in 1992, while also working as a freelance cellist throughout the region. Six years later, Zahn joined the Vintage Violins atelier in Vancouver, before settling in Minneapolis in 1999. Initially, Zahn worked in Claire Givens Violins, then House of Note for some years, before setting up her own shop with bowmaker Jesse Berndt. Zahn has been a longstanding member of the Luthiers sans Frontieres nonprofit, as well as the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers, Violin Society of America (VSA), and the Twin Cities Musicians’ Union. She taught violin making at Minnesota State College from 2012-2016, and has attended the Violin Society of America’s Violin Makers’ Workshop in Oberlin since 2012. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.utezahnviolinmaker.com\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttp:\/\/www.utezahnviolinmaker.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53155684974865,"sku":"VA155-Z23-7","price":16500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/daS2306front.jpg?v=1771977625"},{"product_id":"kevin-crow-16-1-2-viola-28-maggie-wisconsin-2024-metzler-violins","title":"Kevin Crow 16 1\/2\" viola, #28, \"Maggie\", Wisconsin, 2024 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/tK7uGBkZ9jc?si=j1VbF4lwphHdO9e4\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003esweet, nimble, rich\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a nimble playability with a sweet sound, making it easy and enjoyable to play. A subtle flame figure falls slightly from the treble side of the single-piece maple back. Similar flames run along the ribs and scroll. This viola’s apricot varnish is applied over a wheat ground, which shines through the luthier’s thoughtful shading. This instrument has been antiqued by its maker as an homage to the original upon which it is based. As with original Giovanni Paolo Maggini instruments, this viola’s the f-holes are elongated, the scroll has the effect of being tightly curled, and its top and back archings are wider than most violas to help capture the rich sound of original Maggini instruments.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: \"Kevin Crow #28 \/ Madison WI 2024\" with the maker's signature\u003cbr\u003eLength: 415 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bout: 190 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle Bout: 131 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bout 241 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u2028\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKevin Crow\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary luthier based in Madison, Wisconsin. After a career in education, Crow attended the Chicago School of Violin Making where he studied the works of the Cremoni masters: Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati, and Guadagnini. Crow later apprenticed under the luthier Carl F. Becker in Chicago before opening his own shop in Wisconsin.\u2028\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.kevincrowviolins.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.kevincrowviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53175198810385,"sku":"VA165-C145-3","price":15000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/28maggiefrontcopy2_4213a828-c387-4c97-953a-8cb0226b952d.jpg?v=1772145338"},{"product_id":"marinos-glitsos-16-3-4-viola-saint-paul-mn-2026-metzler-violins","title":"Marinos Glitsos 16 3\/4\" viola, Saint Paul, MN, 2026 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/GsvO-2-M5oM?si=UG14R0TByjQpZmUx\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003espirited, warm, sweet\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola’s sound has a warmth and sweetness that rings out across its registers, while also spirited and responsive. The instrument has a dark amber varnish over a wheat ground. Its unique quilted figure on the half slab cut single-piece maple back lists sharply up from the treble side. A plainer wood was used for the ribs, with a flame figure on the scroll. The instrument is antiqued and shaded by its maker.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Marinos Glitsos  \/ Saint Paul 2026”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 425 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 200 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 143 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 250 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarinos Glitsos\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary luthier based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The son of a master carpenter, Glitsos initially pursued cello performance at University of Wisconsin-Superior, earning his bachelors before undertaking a two-year apprentice with the esteemed luthier Daniel Larsen. Glitsos then began attending the Violin Making School of America where he studied under Songhoon Lee. Upon graduation, Glitsos returned to Saint Paul and worked under John Waddle in his shop. While working in Waddle’s atelier, Glitsos became engaged in radiologist Dr. Steve Sirr’s CT-scan research on stringed instruments to learn more about their tone. For five years, Glitsos completed expert setup and tonal adjustments at the Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop with Peter Bingen. He now builds his own instruments in his shop in Saint Paul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.marinosglitsos.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.marinosglitsos.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53175296819473,"sku":"VA1675-G129-8","price":18000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/GlitsosViolarResized.jpg?v=1772221919"},{"product_id":"copy-of-shahram-saeid-rezvani-strad-violin-695-california-2021-metzler-violins","title":"Shahram \u0026 Saeid Rezvani \"Guarneri\" 15 1\/2\" viola, #47, California, 2017 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/h1AuxY5xMJc?si=I-pVe_EHwIW_LOsH\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eclear, focused, commanding\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a bright, commanding timbre with a powerful clarity. This is an excellent solo instrument for someone searching for a smaller viola. The lustrous caramel varnish over a golden ground, bringing out the strong medium curl falling from the center joint of the two-piece maple back. Similar flames run along the ribs, neck, and scroll.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Shahram et Saeid Rezvani \/ Date: 2017 Luthier: R. Bis 47”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 395 mm (15 1\/2\")\u003cbr\u003eString length: 363 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper bout: 187 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle bout: 128 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower bouts: 233 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Makers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShahram\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eSaeid Rezvani\u003c\/strong\u003e are contemporary luthiers who were born and raised in Tehran, Iran and are based outside of Los Angeles, California. Shahram and Saeid initially earned degrees in mathematics and graphic arts, respectively, before pursuing violin making in earnest. In 1990, Shahram apprenticed under Massoud Pournadji, where Saeid soon joined him. The brothers continued their study through mentorship under Ibrahim Ghambari Mehr and Johann Rombach in Vienna, Austria, returning to Iran to continue their craft. In the years that followed, the Rezvani brothers established themselves as premier luthiers in Iran. In 2010, twenty years after beginning their venture as stringed instrument makers, Shahram and Saeid immigrated to the United States where they established their full-service shop in Westlake Village outside of Los Angeles. The Rezvani brothers’ maple is from the Kelardasht Valley in the Alborz Mountains near the Caspian coast in northern Iran, and is aged for 15-20 years. This particular wood allows for a lighter instrument without sacrificing quality of sound. Together, the Rezvani brothers have built over 600 violins, violas, and cellos played by professional soloists as well as symphony and philharmonic orchestral musicians all over the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rezvaniviolin.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/rezvaniviolin.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53181047472401,"sku":"VA155-R96-27","price":18000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/IMG_8188.jpg?v=1772226396"},{"product_id":"stella-eunbyul-yoo-16-3-8-viola-2022-minneapolis-metzler-violins","title":"Stella Eunbyul Yoo 16 3\/8\" viola, 2022, Minneapolis | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp style=\"caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4h1drsjrmxM?si=KPDc-knh_qP-PITD\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003esweet, powerful, soulful\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola is lovely to play and has a beautiful, commandingly bright timbre, making it an excellent solo instrument for someone searching for a larger viola. It has a lovely, even caramel varnish over a golden ground, with a strong medium curl figure falling from the center joint of its two-piece back. Similar flames run along the ribs, neck, and scroll.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Eunbyul Yoo \/ Minneapolis 2022” and bears the luthier’s signature\u003cbr\u003eLength: 418 mm (16 3\/8”)\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 195 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 135 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 148 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStella Eunbyul Yoo\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary Korean luthier based in the Bay Area of California. Originally a violinist, Eunbyul moved to Cremona in 2011 to attend the historic Scuola Internazionale di Liuteria (International Violin Making School). Upon graduating in 2015, Eunbyul was selected to apprentice Luca Primon, under whom she worked for three years. Under Primon’s tutelage, Eunbyul began receiving awards for her cellos and violas. She also apprenticed under Marco Osio. In 2018, Eunbyul moved to the United States and began participating in the Oberlin workshop since 2022. She has earned several awards for her instruments, including Certificate for Artisanship for Viola from the Violin Society of America, First Place for Cello Making from the Italian National Competition for Stringed Instruments in Milan, First Place for Viola Making at the International Violin Making Competition in Rome, and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/stellayoo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttps:\/\/stellayoo.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53203836076305,"sku":"VA1625-Y11-4","price":15000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/DSC_2610_Original.jpg?v=1772661872"},{"product_id":"jamie-gabriel-gonzalez-15-1-2-viola-boston-2026-metzler-violins","title":"Jaime Gabriel González 15 1\/2\" viola, Boston, 2026 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/t_8Jlki1Tvg?si=q87EtreewRIBeUqT\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003eprojecting, clear, bright\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a beautiful and strong sound, making it an excellent instrument for someone who is looking for a smaller instrument without sacrificing power. It has a subtle figure across its single-piece maple back, with the flames ascending from the treble side. More distinct flames run along its ribs, neck, and scroll. The viola’s auburn varnish is over a golden ground, thoughtfully antiqued and shaded by the maker.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Jaime Gabriel González \/ a Boston an. 2026” with a red wax seal bearing the maker's initials\u003cbr\u003eLength: 393 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 187 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 122 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 230 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJaime Gabriel González\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary Mexican luthier based in Watertown, Massachusetts. After graduating with honors from the Escuela de Laudería in Querétaro, Mexico, González opened his own workshop in Guadalajara. In 2017, he enrolled in a class focusing on antique varnishing and retouching taught by the master luthier Pablo Alfaro. This class lead to a deepening of his craft, quickly leading to his involvement in events from the Violin Society of America, Oberlin Restoration Workshops, Southern Violin Association Spring Workshops, and Learning Trade Secrets. Three years later, González moved to the United States, initially in a rental shop in Houston, Texas before joining the distinguished atelier Carriage House Violins two years later where he focused primarily on instrument restoration. González has earned accolades for his instruments, including Gold Medals for Violin and Viola Workmanship and a Silver Medal for Viola Tone. He also received an Hors Concours from the Southern Violin Assocation Competition as well as the Bill Barnitz Award at the Violin Makers Association of Arizona International Competition. González also collaborated with his former instructor, Pablo Alfaro, on a quartet for a Violin Society of America Competition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53203860455697,"sku":"VA1625-G150-1","price":15000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/DSC_9150.jpg?v=1772662995"},{"product_id":"dirk-henry-16-1-2-viola-2024-omaha-ne-metzler-violins","title":"Dirk Henry 16 1\/2\" viola, 2024, Omaha, NE | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TYZdTmV4FNM?si=sbj3ZSI9y90nD6f4\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003epowerful, clear, versatile\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola is a delight to play and is responsive and versatile. Its upper register is bright and clear. The varnish is a lovely light brown over a a golden ground bringing out the tiger figure on the two-piece maple back, which fall down from the center joint. Similar flames run along the neck and scroll, with slightly less flaming along the ribs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior Label Reads: \"Dirk Henry No 42 \/ Omaha NE Anno 2024\" as well as the maker's signature\u003cbr\u003eLength: 419 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 202 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle Bouts: 142 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 250 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDirk Henry\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary luthier based in Omaha, Nebraska. Henry began apprenticing under Cesario Amesquita 2010 and has also worked under the distinguished violin and viola maker, Mark Womack. For some time Henry served as a workshop manager, dividing his time between repairing instruments and crafting his own. In 2019, Dirk joined his friend and fellow luthier, Alex Reza, at Violins of Omaha in the Hotshops Art Center. Henry has attended workshops and seminars, including the Oberlin Violin Making Workshop and the Oberlin Acoustics Workshop. Henry has received both tone and violin making awards for his instruments. Henry has received awards at the Southern Violin Association Violin Makers Competition, earning First Place for Viola Tone, Second Place for Viola Workmanship, and Third Place for Violin Tone. He has also earned a Silver Medal for Tone and a Silver Medal for Overall for his viola in the 2015 VMAAI Competition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dirkhenryviolins.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/dirkhenryviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53214020174097,"sku":"VA165-H142-4","price":16000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/front_6e030b12-9193-4bbf-a43d-a519c3b879ad.jpg?v=1772761123"},{"product_id":"andrew-carruthers-15-5-guadagnini-model-viola-santa-rosa-ca-2025-metzler-violins","title":"Andrew Carruthers 15 1\/2\" Guadagnini model viola, Santa Rosa, CA, 2025 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/pM8zMNXnG3E?si=4NrgxuVWQSSe1F4j\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003esmooth, bright, clear\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis viola has a warm clarity, smooth and a joy to play. This would be an excellent choice for someone searching for a smaller instrument with a big sound. The refined umber varnish is over a golden ground, bringing out the fiddleback figure of flames falling from the center joint of the two-piece maple back. Similar flames run along the ribs and scroll.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior label reads: “Andrew Carruthers \/ Santa Rosa, California 2025\"\u003cbr\u003eLength: 393 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 185 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 134 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 230 mm\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAndrew Carruthers\u003c\/b\u003e (1957- ) is a contemporary luthier who was born in Oxfordshire, England. Carruthers initially worked as a Research Associate at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory before pursuing instrument making, whereupon he returned to the United Kingdom to attend the now-defunct Welsh School of Violin Making and Repair. Carruthers then came stateside to Chicago, working under the cello specialist Russell Wagner in the notable Bein \u0026amp; Fushi atelier. Carruthers focused predominantly on repair and restoration at Bein \u0026amp; Fushi, but came in early each day to build his own instruments. In 1994, Carruthers moved to Tacoma, Washington and ran a shop out of his basement, before settling in Santa Rosa, California the next year. Once in Santa Rosa, Carruthers did restorations for dealers and crafted his own instruments in equal measure. In 2015, Carruthers began to focus entirely on stringed instrument making, and has made hundreds of instruments based on Guarneri del Gesù, Stradivarius, Montagana models, as well as building many “off-beat” violins and cellos that expand the aesthetic of his craft. He also employs woods often neglected by other luthiers, including poplar and willow. He has earned several accolades for his instruments, including Violin Society of America’s Silver Medal for Cello Tone, as well as Certificate of Merit for Violin Tone and Cello Tone.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53230437499153,"sku":"VA155-C111-23","price":25000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/Va2537GuadViolatop.jpg?v=1773088029"},{"product_id":"guillaume-turgeon-16-5-viola-montreal-2025-metzler-violins","title":"Guillaume Turgeon 16 1\/2\" viola, Montreal, 2025 | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/jZNSCbJE7Vo?si=l6G4epHja1S2OJN2\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003eresponsive, consistent, warm\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a spirited sound that is notably consistent across registers, with a particularly warm treble timbre, making it an excellent solo instrument or one that can smoothly blend in a group. It has a beautiful caramel varnish over a golden ground, with a tiger flame figure falling from the center joint on the two-piece maple back. Similar flames run along the ribs, with the neck and scroll of a slightly plainer wood. This instruments is beautifully antiqued and shaded by its maker.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior handwritten label reads: “Guillaume Turgeon \/ Montréal 2025”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 419 mm\u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 192 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 140 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 244 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuillaume Turgeon\u003c\/strong\u003e is a contemporary luthier based in Canada. Prior to attending the École Nationale de Lutherie in Québec City, Turgeon was a violist by training and initially a cabinetmaker. After graduating from École Nationale de Lutherie in 2007, apprenticed in Pier Bergeron’s workshop where he focused on setting-up, repair, and restorations for several years. He then worked under Jean-Benoît Stensland and Thérèse Girard, two luthiers with whom Turgeon continues to collaborate. Through Stensland and Girard, Turgeon refined his craft, including the purfling on the box method. In 2015, Turgeon shared a workshop in Montréal with Gabrienne Gauchet for seven years. In 2022, Turgeon opened the Collectif Lutherie Montréal with Isabelle Wilbaux and Louis Gord. The Collectif is a shared luthier workshop where eleven instrument and bow makers work as well as hold lessons and community conferences.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.guillaumeturgeonluthier.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.guillaumeturgeonluthier.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canadian","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53230675558673,"sku":"VA165-T67-1","price":25000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/Screenshot2026-03-09at1.49.11PM.png?v=1773089414"},{"product_id":"copy-of-michael-fischer-16-3-4-viola-2018-copy-of-zanetto-1570-los-angeles-metzler-violins","title":"Michael Fischer 15 5\/8\" viola, \"Maggini,\" 2026, Redwood top, Eucalyptus back, Los Angeles | Metzler Violins","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/BRCr2iBjW78?si=go8w5iQWUUTEE_Fc\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003eunique, mature, resonant\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Instrument\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis viola has a beautiful, complex and resonant timbre across registers, as well as the luthier’s choice of unique woods, makes this a particularly unique solo instrument. The back is a single-piece quarter cut of eucalyptus with a remarkable figure running down its center. Its varnish is a rich dark auburn color, with its ribs, neck, and scroll of the same wood. Its top is a single piece of redwood, the grain having the effect of a topographical map brought out by its dark brown varnish. The luthier also included an inlay in the double purfling around the instrument’s edges. As with original Giovanni Paolo Maggini instruments, this viola’s the f-holes are elongated, the scroll has the effect of being tightly curled, and its top and back archings are wider than most violas to help capture the rich sound of original Maggini instruments.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInterior labels read: “J. Michael G. Fischer fecit \/ Los Angeles Anno 2026 \/ No 317 Copy of” “Gio: Paolo Maggini, in Brescia”\u003cbr\u003eLength: 404 mm \u003cbr\u003eUpper Bouts: 203 mm\u003cbr\u003eMiddle: 143 mm\u003cbr\u003eLower Bouts: 250 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Maker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. Michael G. Fischer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (1954- ) is a living luthier who was born and raised in South Germany. At eighteen, Fischer attended the Mittenwald Violin Making School before moving to London to assist Dietrich Kessler at Withers, making viola-da-gambas and other baroque instruments. While in London, Fischer also worked with Charles Beare, the renowned luthier and violin dealer. While working in Beare’s shop, Fischer accomplished difficult restorations on the instruments there. Fischer moved to Los Angeles in the 1980s, working in Hans Weisshar’s atelier before opening his own shop in 1984 with a focus on restoration. It was while restoring a 1697 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMateo Gofriller violin, Fischer decided to make a copy for the joy of it. Since then, Fischer has made and sold over 300 copies of fine instruments alongside his efforts to restore and sell excellent stringed instruments and bows out of his atelier. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProfessionals worldwide play and praise his instruments, with testimonials from musicians such as Gil Shaham and Gidon Kremer. Fischer is a member of the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers, Entente Internationale des Maitres Luthiers et Archetiers D'Art, and Verband Deutscher Geigenbauer und Bogenmacher e.V.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mfischerviolins.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/mfischerviolins.com\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53240509956369,"sku":"VA1575-F09-59","price":35000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0908\/1149\/8769\/files\/MFischervla317-front_90fff95c-c68e-47e2-87f2-172c7a421646.jpg?v=1773264515"}],"url":"https:\/\/metzlerviolins.com\/collections\/8th-ame-viola.oembed?page=2","provider":"Metzler Violin Shop Inc.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}