Heberlein Workshop Violin – Markneukirchen 1925 – A Sleeper With Fantastic Sound!

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We have a beautiful older Heberlein workshop violin from the 1920’s. I call the instrument a “sleeper” – a fantastic violin of exceptional quality and sound at a modest price. The violin is not branded inside. If it was and was made in Markneukirchen it would be more than twice the price. The Heberlein family was one of the most prominent violin making families in Markneukirchen. Their history of making lasted for a few centuries. Their masterful precision workmanship is seen in all their instruments. They created an above reproach work ethic in building fine instruments in the style of the old master Italian violin makers. This was even so on workshop instruments.

Our violin is modelled after Stradivarius with an orange/brown color varnish. The varnish has depth of color and some patina. The woods on the violin are choice: a two-piece highly flamed maple back and the top table is medium-width grained spruce, straight grain widening at the flanks. The scroll is a classic cut with nice long volutes (elongated eyes). The arching is Stradivarius style, which is a lower arch which helps deliver on power. The violin has been completely gone over here in the shop. New ebony fittings for everything, we even cut a new fingerboard and nut because the instrument deserved it. The oil varnish is orange/brown on a golden ground. The varnish is consistent through the violin.

The sound on this violin is full and powerful. The instrument is responsive, way above average for an atelier (workshop) violin. The low end has some guts, especially when I lay into the violin with my bow arm. The instrument plays with ease, and a player will enjoy the robust sound. It is not harsh; it delivers on sweetness and drive. The violin speaks well with the overtones delivering in response and in a variety of colors. The sound is balanced, speaking well on all the strings. I find the treble side catching my attention because it is very enjoyable, vibrant and creating a ring that is clear and focused. A sleeper for the shop. A violin with great sound at a moderate price.