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instrument

viola

Lorenzo Storioni

built in Cremona in 1778

The “Genders Viola,” built by Lorenzo Storioni in Cremona, 1778. Body length: 41.7 cm.

History of this instrument

This viola was acquired in 2024 thanks to a generous donation from the heirs and family of Mrs. Genders. When the viola came into our possession, we did not yet have a player for it. The reason for the purchase was our desire to add diversity to our viola collection. A beautiful viola like this doesn’t come along often. If you go looking for one, you won’t find it (easily), simply because there aren’t that many of these exceptionally beautiful violas. So when this viola was offered to us, we wanted to at least hear it played by different musicians in different concert halls.

The initial reactions were promising: “a lot of sensitivity and color, very responsive, very captivating sound.” This was followed by: “a broad and rich palette of colors, a beautiful tenor tone, good projection, and a focused sound with a clear series of overtones; it responds easily and therefore has excellent articulation.” With highly positive reviews from the experts, a dendrochronological report supporting the findings, and such an incredibly generous donation, nothing stood in the way of purchasing this beautiful alto. We are very happy that this alto is now part of the collection.
Alice Sinacori is the first lucky alto player to perform on this magnificent instrument.

About the builder Lorenzo Storioni

Lorenzo Storioni—or Laurentius Storioni, as his label read—was born in the year that Guarneri del Gesù died. Cremona was once the center of European violin making, but little of that remained. Michelangelo Bergonzi was still one of the...

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