John Simmers Gasparo Model Viola 15.5" Brisbane Australia 2021

John Simmers began his career in music studying viola and double bass at the Queensland Conservatorium before working as a repairer in Brisbane. He later travelled to England to study at the Newark School of Violin Making, graduating with Distinction in 1997. After gaining further experience in workshops in England and the United States, Simmers returned to Brisbane and established Simmers Violins in 1997. He combines restoration, repair and retail with his own instrument making, and is a founding member of the Australian Violin Makers Association. Simmers makes violins, violas and cellos, working to commission and on his own models. His instruments are played internationally, and in 2018 he received a Silver Medal at the Violin Society of America competition in Cleveland for a viola.

Labelled 'John Simmers, Brisbane 2021', this viola is modelled after Gasparo Da Salo. The body measures 391mm along the back, 204mm across the upper bouts and 259mm across the lower bouts. The back is of one-piece flamed maple, with matching ribs and scroll. The top is made from fine grained spruce and finished with boxwood fittings. The width of the bouts more than counteracts the shorter back length of this instrument, producing a rich, warm and powerful tone. It is suited towards solo, chamber and orchestral playing.

Please contact us if you would like to try this viola.