This viola is unusually well-toned. It would suit a professional musician or advanced student, looking for a responsive instrument.

István Olah was born in Romania c.1940 where he also studied violin making. Being a professional violist, he soon became a prolific maker of violas - an instrument that he has a particularly close relationship with. He moved to South Africa in the early 1980s to take up a position as violist in the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra in Durban, where he lives. He still actively works as maker and restorer of instruments.

Olah has made a large number of mainly violas in South Africa, most of which are used professionally and by advanced students. His violas are always very well-toned and are characterized by rich robust tone and ease of execution. His concern is always for good tonal properties - he seems to care less about conventions of refined lutherie, often sacrificing refinement, although some of his work demonstrates great skill and attention to detail - something he is certainly capable of.

This instrument is made of a fine selection of materials - the two-piece back and ribs are of well-flamed maple with a narrow to medium curl - repeated in the neck and scroll. The top is of good tone spruce with a narrow even, very straight medium grain. The scroll and purfling are steady. The oil-based varnish is an attractive golden brown which complements the materials well.

This instrument is signed and dated by the maker in the inside on the back, directly on the wood (See photo).

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 40.8 cm

Condition :
	This viola is in superb condition, free from repairs or cracks. The pegs, bridge and soundpost are new.

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request