Peter Harrold Viola - 15 1/2 inch

Product Information

This exceptional 15 ½" viola was handcrafted in 2007 labelled by renowned British luthier Peter Harrold, whose instruments are highly regarded for their tonal richness and attention to detail. Built using carefully selected tonewoods, this viola features a finely grained spruce top and a beautifully flamed maple back, ribs, and neck, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and superior acoustic performance.

The instrument produces a warm, balanced tone with excellent projection, making it well-suited for both ensemble and solo performances. Its professional setup includes a hand-fitted bridge and sound post, optimising the viola’s resonance and responsiveness. With smooth playability and an expressive tonal palette, this viola is an outstanding choice for advancing players and professionals alike.

This instrument would be the perfect partner for a player who struggles stretching to a first position hand position on normal 16 inch instruments. Struggling to stretch to a certain measure over time may result in weariness and potentially pain which may linger. Posture and proportion are incredibly important and Bridge Street Violins is here to help you find the right instrument for you that is comfortable to play.

String length 357mm; neck length 140mm; body stop 213mm, total body length (excluding button) 392mm (or 15 1/2 inch)

The body stop is 9mm shorter than a ‘standard’ Viola, the neck length has been proportionally shortened in line with the bridge position.

About the Maker – Peter Harrold (aka Peter Dodge)

Peter Harrold is a respected British violin and viola maker known for his dedication to traditional craftsmanship and acoustical excellence. With a background in fine woodworking and instrument repair, Harrold has developed a reputation for creating violins and violas that balance playability with a rich, complex sound. His instruments are sought after by musicians who appreciate the attention to detail, refined tonal characteristics, and the individuality of each handcrafted piece.

Professional Set-Up

At Bridge Street Violins, we provide a professional setup that goes beyond the standard adjustments offered by most shops. Each viola is carefully inspected and adjusted by our expert luthier to ensure the best possible sound and playability. Depending on the instrument, this setup may include:

• Peg adjustment

• Fingerboard resurfacing (if necessary)

• Top nut adjustment

• Sound post and bridge fitting

• String height adjustments

• Tailored settings for enhanced playing comfort

This service ensures your viola is fully prepared for high-quality performance, offering a level of care that sets us apart from retailers who only provide a basic factory setup.

How Long Will My Order Take to Arrive?

We’re a small, family-run workshop with a big focus on quality. For all the details on our delivery times, shipping options and how we’re working to reduce our carbon footprint, see our Delivery Information page.

Postage Options

We offer the following delivery options:

• Free Local Collection: You are welcome to collect your instrument free of charge from our workshop near Lincoln.

• UK Delivery: We’ll dispatch your viola anywhere in the UK, with a postage charge applied at checkout.

• EU Delivery: We are happy to arrange shipping within the EU, a postage charge will be applied at the checkout.

• International Delivery: Worldwide shipping is available with some exceptions. Please get in touch for an individual quote.

Viola Care Tips

To keep your viola in excellent condition and ensure it maintains its best sound, we recommend the following care tips:

• Storage: Store your viola in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can affect the wood.

• Cleaning: Wipe down your viola regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and rosin build-up. Avoid touching the varnish with your fingers.

• String Care: Check your strings for wear and replace them when necessary. Avoid over-tightening, as this can stress the instrument.

• Bow Maintenance: Always loosen the bow hair after playing and re-hair the bow when needed to maintain smooth performance.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need assistance before or after your purchase, our team is here to help. Whether it’s about delivery, setup, or care, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.