Happy Customers
Da Spalla comissioned by Ishi Masa of Japan.
The well proven Badiarov Small Model, made from Black Poplar and Engelmann Spruce.
Beautiful, resonant Black Poplar.
I love my Stephen Collins da Spalla bow! It has a balanced and warm tone. It even sounds great as a baroque bow for my viola and is now my preferred way to play Bach on the viola!
Sarah Kheel, Viola, Peabody Preparatory Faculty.
Viola for Judith DeWitt, International Symphony Orchestra. A Collins original design using the Old Masters' Tones Technique of Dmitry Badiarov.
As part of a summer violin day camp experience, Mr. Stephen Collins created a beautiful custom 1/2 size violin in the style of Guarneri 'del Gesu' for our daughter. It is such a unique opportunity to own a violin crafted by this talented musician and luthier. Our daughter was privileged to learn hands-on, the care and attention to detail required to create such a high-quality instrument.
The resonance, depth and warmth of the sound produced by this custom violin greatly inspired our daughter's further musical endeavours.
Paula Cassin
Testimony from Harvard student Annabelle Rayson
I had taken violin lessons from Mr. Collins for six years, and I was always amazed and fascinated by his workshop and instruments. Later, I decided that I wanted to switch to viola. Mr. Collins first let me borrow a viola he had on hand from a company manufacturer. Then Mr. Collins allowed me to use a viola he had recently made. I fell in love with it.
Mr. Collins' viola had a perfect size and fit for my shoulders and neck, it felt incredibly comfortable and effortless to play. The unique coloring, woodwork, and shine is exquisite. More importantly, the sound, brightness, and resonance of Mr. Collins' instrument is phenomenal. After playing this viola, I found myself playing and practicing more and more as I love the sound that it makes.
Ultimately, despite the option to purchase a more affordable viola, I had to have the Collins viola for its incomparable sound. With this viola I have performed in chamber music groups and for Christmas masses, and it always impresses and amazes my fellow musicians and the audience. More importantly, I use the viola for independent study and personal enjoyment. It is a fantastic way to express myself and relax after a stressful week, and immediately brings joy to myself and anyone who is listening.
Annabelle Rayson
Violoncello da Spalla from Balkan Maple and Engelmann Spruce. This one is based on the Badiarov Small Model with modifications for a richer bass tone. This instrument is available for sale. It has been featured in many live performances, and it is suitable for both solo and chamber music settings.