Phillipa Heys, no 2 Second Violin, Hallé Orchestra

I commissioned Helen to make my violin in the spring of 2019. When speaking to her about what I was looking for in terms of sound, she filled me with confidence. It was ready at the end of August, and I was instantly struck by the quality of the sound. It is incredibly resonant and has wonderful clarity. It has fantastic depth in the lower strings and an equally impressive top register. In my job as an orchestral musician, I need power and the ability to be soft and blend. It gives me both, and there is always warmth and quality in the sound even when very soft. The word that keeps coming to mind to describe this instrument is genuine – perhaps a rare quality! I am very proud to own this beautiful violin, and I couldn’t recommend Helen more.”