Reviews

Description: This is a nicely presented viol shaped instrument from the later quarter of the twentieth century. Proportionally - it has slightly larger measurements than one would expect from an instrument of this type - which we believe makes it ideal for use in a symphony orchestra. How do you know that this instrument was made in Mittenwald? The plumb-red varnish over a yellow ground is most typical of the Mittenwald school. In addition the viol-shaped model with its distinctive bulbous contours at the upper-block area (neck-rib join) are also typical of the area. Can you tell me where Mittenwald...

Can you tell me about Bandini? The Dictionary of Twentieth Century Italian Violin Makers by Marlin Brinser lists Mario Bandini as a one-star (good) rating out of a possible zero - three for the importance of his work. The brief entry states 'Good late modern. Won medals. Won medal at Bagnacavallo for Double Bass'. No dates are given for the maker but we are reliably informed that the instruments made in the early 80s are amongst the last that he produced in what was a long professional career. Our source estimated that Bandini was born around 1915 but was unsure...

What a glorious looking French instrument this is. Yes - this is one of those incredibly handsome violin outlined instruments with a flat back that displays a "secondary-button" carved immediately below the neck block button. Constructed throughout with timber of quality and with carving that shows good attention to detail this is an excellent early example of this model of Lamy instrument. Can you tell me about the model? Yes - with an outline and arching that are near perfect in symmetry the instrument looks every bit as if it were an enlarged Strad model violin. Can you tell me...

Tell me about Ronald Prentice? Ron Prentice was born in 1932 in London. After an early playing career on bass guitar and double bass Ron opened a shop in Enfield, Middlesex where he made, restored instruments and sold accessories. Ron's first instruments were mainly viols - but when his work found particular favour with players in the London orchestras he began to make more modern instruments. Orders for new instruments - particularly cellos and double basses - began to flood in - so in order to enable him to concentrate on his making without disturbance Ron moved to Ash Priors,...