Reviews

What a fantastic looking instrument. Yes - everything about this instrument by Johann Klier is either well done or is just simply awesome. First - take a look at the model. The violin outline with swell back is symmetrical and well balanced and looks just like a large Strad model violin. Second - take a look at the condition. It's what we'd describe as very, very good. How does the instrument sound? You'll be pleased to know that along with the good looks and condition is a sound quality and volume to match. This really is a mega sounding instrument....

How would you describe this instrument? This is one of those magnificent instruments with the rounded or "Busetto" type lower corners in the style of Mathias Klotz (1653-1743) that are quite awesome in every aspect. With a length of back (LOB) measurement of 119.3cm - this really is a true 5/4 size instrument. Is the string length big as well? No. Even though this instrument is not far short from being as big an instrument as one will find - it is still very playable due to the fact that The Contrabass Shoppe has fitted a stunning "slim-feel" neck that...

What info do you have on T. Davies? Relatively little is known about the instrument maker T. Davies. In his "Dictionary of Violin and Bow Makers" (ISBN No. 0 9523081 0 X) Dennis.G. Plowright writes 'He was an amateur maker circa 1880. His violins and violas are quite well made, the wood faintly figured and the varnish red/brown. His instruments are labelled (No. 9 dated 1880) and branded T.DAVIES/BIRMINGHAM below the button.' Maybe Davies was an amateur - but if this instrument is representative of his work - it certainly isn't amateurish. Yes that's correct. The quality of making that...

What a majestic looking instrument this is. Yes - majestic really is the right word to start a review of this beautiful instrument. Please explain. William Forster was honoured with the patronage of His Majesty King George 111 (b-1738, d-1820), his younger brother HRH Henry Frederick (b-1745, d-1790) the Duke of Cumberland & Strathearn and King George's first son HRH George Augustus Frederick (b-1762, d-1830) the Prince of Wales - who in 1820 - on the death of his father ascended the throne as King George IV. Is that why William Forster is often referred to as "Royal Forster"? Yes...