When I first tried the Violoncello da Spalla that we made after the Johann Wagner in Lübeck, what struck me most was the extreme comfort of the left hand. The neck was very short, but very thick, and everything seemed easy on it. This first impression has always been confirmed by those who try it.
Since then, I’d try to never miss an original neck when I have the chance to see one. In the Vermillion National Music Museum, which we visited in early June this year and in which we were so lucky to be allowed to study several instruments from their magnificent collection, they have a high percentage of original necks!
Today we’d like to show you two special ones: two small violins which are still in perfect original condition. They are both amazing, neat examples of elegant work.
Then, we indulged in an “eclectic” instrument (meaning, it’s not usually on our list). We were curious to look inside and see how these kinds of instruments are refined, and what the grade of neatness is. We didn’t expect such wild decorations!! Many meters of purfling were used for this back!! Only the top, however, seems to be original. The story of this instrument is a bit complicated, but, basically, it was put together by the Hill family in London, probably in the first half of the 20th century? It was interesting to see it!
On our next post we’ll start to get more “on topic”, with two amazing violoncello piccolo!
Wenhan Jiang’s Violoncello da Spalla had its fingerboard replaced with a solid Sonowood maple one, and the sound was amazingly boosted by this change! Now it is having some skincare sessions, but it’s almost ready to go! (The orange shade in the central pic is given by the sunset light)
Want to try a Violoncello da Spalla? Get in touch, we’re happy to welcome you in Meltina, South Tyrol, Italy!
Are you a luthier interested in making a Violoncello da Spalla?
In the archive of this newsletter, I documented the whole process, sharing measures and templates. You can check the index and some of the posts at this link, and if you subscribe to a paid plan you have instant access to all the posts and to a private chat where you can ask me any question.
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