The Gliga Gems 2 viola is handmade in the European town of Reghin, set in the Carpathian mountain forests in Transylvania.c

This famous srtinged instrument-making region has been a centre of excellence for over 300 years. The Gliga workshops were opened in 1991 and one of the violins made there became a treasured possession of Sir Yehudi Menuhin.

This Gems 2 viola has an excellent sound and is highly suitable for the lucky beginner, but also for the player taking intermediate grades. Many teachers will choose these instruments over the Chinese-made equivalent violas.

It has a resonant spruce top with the back, ribs and neck made of lightly-flamed maple. This version of the instrument is finished in a traditional oil-based varnish. The fingerboard, pegs, nut and tailpiece are ebony, as are the chin rest, saddle and end-pin.

We prepare these instruments before sending and fit a single string adjuster (fine tuner) on the A string. We can include string adjusters on all strings if required.

We can also fit quality Pirastro strings, but other options are available. Please ring or email for details.

The outfit is completed with a handsome plush-lined shaped case. and the bow is a suitable choice, made of brazil-wood with natural stallion hair.