The Hows and Whys of Choosing a Viola
A Few Practical Considerations
Now that you have found a fantastic viola and have fallen in love with it, become, for the moment, cold and calculating. Consider what the secondary market of the maker is. Do you know the difference between a great $12,000 viola and a $12,000 snow job? Here are a few points to keep in mind:
Market value is determined by three basic factors: whodunit, condition, and sound quality. The quality of the work coupled with the maker's reputation is largely responsible for price. Sound will, however, determine salability and liquidity, If the instrument is antiqued, did the maker do it tastefully or is it overdone? Is the model odd in any way, and if so, what might the impact be in terms of future salability? If the instrument is very large or very small, its market will be more limited.
Trade is often an avenue to a better instrument. Will professional dealers take this instrument in a trade situation? This is a major consideration in the realm of the more expensive contemporary makers.
Your best approach to choosing a viola is to try as many great violas as you can, regardless of price, to gain a perspective. Then narrow your search to the instruments that give you the best size and sound for your budget.
Be patient. Take the time to inform yourself and find expert help. After all, the sound quality and fit of your viola will be the very foundation of your playing.
