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Viola
1999 |
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I have been a violin maker since
1974. For years I studied the great instruments of antiquity while working as a
restorer in fine shops. Today I bring that knowledge to my own creations as I
concentrate exclusively on making new instruments.
The demand of
today's growing numbers of violists has led to a renaissance of viola making as
the need for fine instruments has increased. If you want a viola with classic
Italian tone for a fraction of the price of an antique instrument, or dream of
a viola that is comfortable to play, you should consider one of my instruments.
My sixteen inch viola has a crisp powerful C and a rich, fat A-string
that will blend with any ensemble of fine instruments, and is exceptionally
easy to play. The neck is shaped for maximum player comfort and feels like a
much smaller instrument. It is favored by violinists who need to switch back
and forth between the two instruments.
If you require the stronger
tonal fundamentals only available from a larger instrument, my sixteen and
one-half inch viola should meet your needs while being as easy to play as a
much smaller instrument. If you are looking for a different body size, please contact me so we can discuss your particular
needs.
My original instrument designs are inspired by Guarneri Del
Gesu, and have the warm, full-throated voice of his best work. Their lively
sound, even throughout the range of the instrument, is flexible, rich, and
complex, with a wide-spectrum palette of tone color. You will find
responsiveness, clarity, and focus at your disposal, whether at ppp or
FFF. Along with their sweet smoothness, my instruments have the
power and projection appropriate for a range of musical needs, and are being
played in chamber, orchestral, and solo settings. While no one instrument can
do all things perfectly for all players, if you tell me your needs I can create
one that will match your specific situation.
Players fall in love with
my instruments for their elegant sound and also their playability. The seamless
comfort of my setup and neck work will give you unparalleled security and
freedom in performance. They are an excellent choice as a primary instrument or
as a companion to give your antique instrument a rest.
Did I mention
that they are also beautiful to look at? I search the world for the finest
materials to create my instruments and varnish them with an oil varnish I make
myself to achieve maximum tonal and visual beauty. The result is a
one-of-a-kind work of art, handmade with love, to be cherished for lifetimes.
Now that you have an idea of my work, I hope you will visit me and
hold one in your hands. If a picture is worth a thousand words, playing one
will be worth a thousand pictures.
If you would like to arrange to
play one of my violas, or have any questions, please e-mail me at
AMDG@rufinoviolins.com or call me
at 212-581-6226.
Yours Faithfully
Charles Rufino |
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