Hiroshi Kono Viola, Tokyo Japan

The instrument has moderate arching in the Stradivarius style which helps project a powerful viola sound. The top plate is of medium-width grain spruce and the back plate is one-piece maple with a medium-width flame that is very straight across the quarter. The woods are beautiful, and the instrument is slightly distressed to give an older feel to the instrument. The viola is light in weight which is an added plus for the player. The varnish is slightly antiqued and shaded in a deep golden orange/brown on a golden ground. We set up the viola here in our shop with ebony fittings, soundpost, French bridge, and a set of Rondo viola strings with a Larsen A. Joshua Bell, the famous violinist, has many students purchase Kono (violins) instruments because of the quality, depth of sound and excellent responsiveness. These instruments are perfect for the up-and-coming serious player looking for the next level in sound and performance. Violas are always available in 15 1/2″, 16″, and 16 1/2″