Violin by Gareth Ballard, London, 2010
About Gareth Ballard
Gareth is a very fine luthier whose workshop is based on London´s Lambeth Walk. He originally worked as a composer and performer before going on to study violin making, first of all in Italy and then at the Newark School of Violin Making. Gareth talks about his fascinating
here.
In addition to being a talented violin maker, Gareth is much sought-after as a restorer. This violin combines these two roles, being based on an instrument which Gareth looked after.
About the violin
This violin is an amazing copy of the 1744 del Gesù `Ole Bull´, one of Guarneri's last works. The violin excels as a copy in two main ways: the varnish captures the texture and brilliance of the original; and Gareth has re-created the gutsy sound as well.
The violin has a two piece back of relatively plain, book-matched maple. The front is two pieces of spruce with grain which widens considerably towards the flanks. The varnish is a delicate golden-brown colour, laid over a lighter golden ground. The violin has a length of back of 351 mm.
How does it sound?
This is a powerful instrument which would relish the task of soaring above a big romantic orchestra. The tone is really brilliant: this violin is rich and full without compromising on response.
Condition
The violin is in original mint condition.
Further information
Please get in touch for more details about this contemporary violin by Gareth Ballard for sale and a member of our team will get back to you.