Viola by Arthur Doyle, Glasgow, 2022

About Arthur Doyle

Arthur Doyle was set on a path to lutherie by the influence of the late Hector MacMillan, a polymath and self-taught luthier based in Fife. MacMillan had a background in physics before becoming a renowned playwright who explored the acoustic principles of the violin, examining how cavity and structural resonances, material properties, and especially the chemistry of the varnish ground layer affect tone and projection. His interdisciplinary approach—blending science, craft, artistic sensibility and captivating narrative—profoundly inspired Doyle.

Working full-time as a hospital renal consultant, he spent evenings and weekends experimenting as MacMillan had with old, broken violins, using them to test his theories. He carefully dismantled and studied these instruments, observing how arching, plate thickness, wood density, and varnish composition changed the playability and range of tonal colours. What began as intellectual curiosity evolved into disciplined self-teaching.

Making and playing the instruments meant treating the instrument not just as a technical acoustic system but as a tool for the hands of a musician.

Through persistence and experimentation, Doyle developed a thoughtful, science-informed approach to violin making with a violinist's perspective on playability.

About the viola

This viola was made in Glasgow in 2022 and is built on a personal model.

The viola has a two-piece back of quarter-sawn maple with ribs and scroll to match. The front is two pieces of straight-grained spruce and the varnish is a shaded brown in colour.

The viola has a length of back of 16 and a quarter inches, or 414 mm.

How does it sound?

This viola is warm and rich with a good balance of projection and breadth. Its tonal flexibility would make it an excellent orchestral partner.

Condition

The viola is in original mint condition.

More information

For more options, please view other violas in this price range.