The news at present is grim and we all wonder what we can do to help. Viola players, this is your chance! You can upgrade your instrument and contribute to humanitarian relief in Ukraine. 100% of the price of the first of these violas to sell will go towards this vital cause. The proceeds of the second will fund projects that support the training and development of violin making students.
These two violas were made by father and son, Maurice and Martin Bouette. Maurice was the founder of the Newark School of Violin Making and his son Martin went on to become one of the most capable makers and restorers of his generation. These instruments date from the time that Martin was a student at the violin making school in Mittenwald, Germany. They were generously donated by Martin’s widow Susan and have been set up as a project with Susan’s friends Andrew and Anneleen Fairfax and Helen Michetschläger.
16 3/8 inch (41.4cm) viola by Martin Bouette, London 1972
This is a lovely viola with an expressive and responsive sound, and also has plenty of volume and projection. It has an attractive deep red spirit varnish. The condition is excellent; it has been carefully checked over and has a new setup by Fairfax Violins. The price is £5000.
16 1/2 inch (41.8cm) viola labelled MB London 1971 SOLD
This viola was a collaboration between father and son. The sound is rich and chocolatey. It’s a handsome instrument, beautiful wood and a warm golden spirit varnish. It is in perfect condition and has had a new setup by Fairfax Violins.
Both violas come with certificates of authenticity.
If you would like more information, or to try either of these violas, please contact me. They can be seen at the workshop in Manchester or can be sent on approval by courier.
