Hiroshi Kono 16″ Viola – Tokyo 2026

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We have a finely crafted one-piece back viola from Japan. The instrument has moderate arching in the Stradivarius style which helps project a massive powerful viola sound. The top plate is medium-width spruce, and the back plate is one-piece maple with a medium-width flame that is also matched to the same degree in the ribs. The varnish is a deep amber/orange/brown on golden ground, simply beautiful. The oil varnish is antiqued and distressed to give an older appearance to the instrument. All of the fittings are carved here at the shop. Swiss model ebony pegs, Despiau grade B French bridge, soundpost, nut removed and reworked, fingerboard cambered, and a German Wittner tailpiece added. Joshua Bell, the famous violinist, has many students purchase Kono instruments because of the quality, depth of sound, and incredible responsiveness. These instruments are excellent for the up-and-coming series player looking for the next level in sound and performance. The weight or lightness of the viola will amaze you too. It is noticeable and I believe adds greatly to the value of the instrument. This is a new instrument in perfect condition.

The sound of the Kono viola is large and resonant. Warm and abounding in steadfast goodness. It is a wow in my book. This powerful sound is throughout the entire voicing and register. The C & G strings have a gutsy mature sound which I like very much. But they also have an edginess to their tone which adds greatly to the overtones of the viola. The A & D strings have brilliance. The instrument sparkles with its dynamic tones. As a player you will fall in love with this sound and will be captured by the instrument’s presence and performance.