This 16 ½” viola, numbered 67, by Malcolm Collins has the deep warm sound associated with larger bodied instruments.

Malcolm Collins originally trained as a boat builder, and these refined cabinet making skills came in useful when his personal passion for violin making took over.

An amateur violist, he has a very good intuitive approach to design and this viola, made in 2017, is based on his personal model.

The two piece back is of medium flamed maple with matching sides and head, the top of good German spruce and the warm glazed varnish of Malcolm’s own kauri gum recipe.

The sound is smooth and rich, the warmth especially noticeable on the two lower strings. It has nice, ringing overtones and a good, even balance across the strings and throughout the range.

With good volume and carrying power, this is an ideal option for advanced students.

Malcolm Collins, New Zealand,16 ½” Viola 2017

Reference: VA.141