We think we have finally made a breakthrough in our varnishing technique at the Opera workshop. We knew we were having some trouble breaking out of our Opera Guarneri Cannone type of varnishing, which became our highly successful model and becoming the top seller for many of our resellers. This year in 2009, we concentrated mainly on renewing our techniques on the top spruce. We feel it is quite nice. Available for order now. Stocks arrive in 3 weeks.
Hi Jehpin,
we tried out the first three Vecchio violins that have arrived here, I hope the remaining ones will arrive before Wednesday next week.
Let me say that I’m delighted with the general quality of both sound and craftsmanship. The antique finish of the “old Italian” and “19th century French” models is expertly done, certainly as good as any that I’ve seen from China. You could really these are old violins. The glossier finish of the straight oil varnish is certainly less distinctive, but no less well done.
The sound character of all three violins is very similar, about what I expect of very compactly built violins with good arching of the body: sweet e-string sound, generally good projection and a characterful g-string, good balance overall. The antiqued ones have a touch of “boxiness”, which is not unlike old violins and suits the character. Violin players keep telling me that a little bit of boxy sound is more comforatble on the ear of the player. Very nice on the whole, very stable quality – I would suggest to my customers that the level is about that of experienced hobby players and advanced students. Very easy to play, too!
I’m naturally looking forward to receiving the remaining ones – and more!
Best regards, Thomas
