Handmade 16 1/4 inch viola by Henriette de Vrijer - Norwich, 1994

Product Information

This beautifully handcrafted 16 1/4-inch viola was made by Henriette de Vrijer in Norwich in 1994. With exceptional attention to detail, this instrument showcases high-quality tonewoods, featuring a well-seasoned spruce top and a highly flamed maple back, neck, and ribs. The varnish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, while also contributing to the instrument’s warm, resonant tone.

The viola delivers a deep, sonorous sound with excellent clarity and projection, making it well-suited for orchestral, chamber, and solo performances. Its responsive nature allows players to explore a wide dynamic range with ease. Professionally set up by our expert luthier, it benefits from an optimally adjusted bridge, sound post, and high-quality strings to bring out its best qualities.

The instrument model’s design and broad proportions indicate a strong and deep bass sound, with very manageable measurements for playability as well for any player.

This viola is labelled “Henriette de Vrijer, in the workshop of David Edwards, Norwich 1994, No. 1”

String length 371mm; neck length 148mm; body stop 220mm, total body length (excluding button) 419mm (or 16 1/4 inch)

The body stop is 9mm shorter than a ‘standard’ Viola, the neck length has been proportionally shortened in line with the bridge position.

Professional Set-Up

At Bridge Street Violins, we provide a professional setup that goes beyond the standard factory adjustments offered by most shops. Each viola is carefully inspected and adjusted by our expert luthier to ensure the best possible sound and playability. Depending on the instrument, this setup may include:

• Peg adjustment

• Fingerboard resurfacing (if necessary)

• Top nut adjustment

• Sound post and bridge fitting

• String height adjustments

• Tailored settings for enhanced playing comfort

This service ensures your viola is fully prepared for high-quality performance, offering a level of care that sets us apart from retailers who only provide a basic factory setup.

How Long Will My Order Take to Arrive?

We’re a small, family-run workshop with a big focus on quality. For all the details on our delivery times, shipping options and how we’re working to reduce our carbon footprint, see our Delivery Information page.

Postage Options

Once your viola has been set up to perfection, we offer the following delivery options:

• Free Local Collection: You are welcome to collect your instrument free of charge from our workshop near Lincoln.

• UK Delivery: We’ll dispatch your viola anywhere in the UK, with a postage charge applied at checkout.

• EU Delivery: We are happy to arrange shipping within the EU, a postage charge will be applied at the checkout.

• International Delivery: Worldwide shipping is available with some exceptions. Please get in touch for an individual quote.

Viola Care Tips

To keep your viola in excellent condition and ensure it maintains its best sound, we recommend the following care tips:

• Storage: Store your viola in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can affect the wood.

• Cleaning: Wipe down your viola regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and rosin build-up. Avoid touching the varnish with your fingers.

• String Care: Check your strings for wear and replace them when necessary. Avoid over-tightening, as this can stress the instrument.

• Bow Maintenance: Always loosen the bow hair after playing and re-hair the bow when needed to maintain smooth performance.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need assistance before or after your purchase, our team is here to help. Whether it’s about delivery, setup, or care, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.