They are beautiful to look at. They have the freshness of ten-years-young creations that are thoroughly cared for annually. Over their classic curves and roundnesses, there is a clear golden orange-red varnish that catches the eye. — Tom Heimberg, San Francisco Classical Voice, 1999
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violins
I like a bold look. This is reflected in the sound of the violin. The outline is derived from a late Guarneri, its form evolved with repetitive use. Choice of wood, full archings, "samurai" f-holes and relative flexibility/tension determine its voice. Powerful, with full range of color and reserve.
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violas
My violas go back to Mantua and Camillus Camilli for their inspiration. A broad middle bout gives depth and power to its sound. Varying body lengths provide a maximum of comfort with a full array of tonal possibilities.
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cellos
Cellos by Francesco Ruggeri and Antonio Stradivari provide a good starting point for my smaller and larger models. The broad yet compact Ruggeri is "user friendly" with no loss in power and complexity, while the larger modified B-form Stradivari (as played by ASQ) offers a nobility in tone to cellists accustomed to its greater length.