
Rare small English Viola by William Tarr dated 1845
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Rare small English Viola by William Tarr dated 1845. Branded "W Tarr" below button on back and inside centre of the back. Only 15"/380mm. Very easy to play.
Two previous repair labels, "J Shaw, Manchester 1891" and "Bryan Skilhorn 1965".
It has a fairly wide-grain front with a two-piece medium flamed maple back with matching ribs.
Varnish of a brown colour over a amber base - mostly original.
Some restorations.
Newly set-up with a professionally cut bridge and Dominant Pro strings.
Would suit a professional player and/or discerning amateur looking for a small viola with all the power of a larger model.
William Tarr was born in Manchester 1809, died 1891. He was a celebrated English double-bass player and maker and began making basses in 1829. With the help of his sons he produced a number of high quality concert basses which are highly sought-after today. Just a few of his violas remain.






