Glasser Carbon Composite 5-String Viola

Fabulous instrument, but…..

Fiddlerman were second to none - great communication and quick and helpful responses to all my (endless) questions! It takes quite some courage to blind order an instrument like this, but I already had the violin version, so I figured it was just a viola version of that! I was delighted when it arrived - the finish is quite something with its subtle matt burgundy weave. I was also very glad to receive the model with the graphite bridge and matt tailpipe, as opposed to the version on the listing. It’s also surprisingly light, and super comfortable to play. I ordered a fiddlerman shoulder rest and hybrid bow too, and it all married very well - no arguements! So what’s the but’? Well… I was disappointed and surprised to find that the instrument didn’t arrive with a professional set up: after struggling to get a good tone on the higher register I checked the action and it was over 6mm, which is a set up for a cello! Luckily I know a fantastic luthier and he shaped the bridge, moved it a little to the right spot, adjusted this and that! The reward for these adjustments was instant - she projected like the beauty she is! I’m curious as to why Glasser wouldn’t send out the best versions of their instruments, but I’m grateful that it could at least be adjusted. I find the strings to be a really good match to the instrument and the fancy non-slip pegs are just a dream! I’m not disappointed at all that I bought this viola, and I’m looking forward to playing her in the rain ☔️

Fiddler's Dream

I'm not a violist. I bought this in the hopes that I could make more noise with this in a fiddle jam going head=to=head with ten guitar players than with my beautiful Luis & Clarke carbon fiber violin or even my 4-string Glasser fiddle. I believe this will do well. I bought the 15.5" . When I play it, even with a mute on, it resonates like I'm playing in a large empty room. I wonder if it could take on an accordion. There's nothing subtle about the sound, but it is clear and sweet to my ear. I think I'll try cross-tuning tomorrow and see if some plaster falls off the ceiling. PS i could not make the Bon Musica viola shoulder rest fit on this 15.5 fiddle; it turns out that this Glasser viola is wider than the others they sell. I ended up getting a Wolf Forte Secondo Viola Shoulder Rest, which is not as comfortable but at least fits.

Glasser Carbon Composite 5-String Viola

It was a Christmas present for my 15 year old daughter and she absolutely loved it. We purchased a Viola last year for her as well and the quality and sound of these instruments are amazing. We will continue purchasing instruments from Fiddlershop because you have an amazing company! Thank you!