One of the finest luthiers working in Cremona today, Levaggi’s instruments are respected for their perfect workmanship and elegant tonal qualities. Before setting up his own workshop in the historic center of Cremona in 2001, he graduated from the Cremona School of Lutherie in 1984 where he studied with Vincenzo Bissolotti, among others. He then worked in Genoa with Carlson-Cacciatori-Neumann’s. He has won countless international prizes over the course of his career, and continues perfecting his craft. This viola was made with special wood from Jay Ifshin’s large stock, and was hand selected by Ifshin and Levaggi for aesthetic beauty and sonorous qualities. It is has a quick response and a smooth, sonorous tone.

The brothers Georg (primarily a bow maker) and Theophil Wilhelm were sons of Bernhard Schwartz who established the Schwartz firm in 1794. Their work is highly respected and sought after. This fine viola is an exceptional and beautiful example of their work. The tone is even over all four strings, very responsive and with a lovely texture.

A student of Constantine Celani and Giuseppe Ornati, Castelli won over a dozen prizes before passing away in 2003 at the age of 91. He worked in his native Ascoli Piceno, making over 200 violins, 70 violas, and 30 cellos. His workmanship is of the highest quality. This viola has a strong, rich tone and is very responsive.