Cremona SVA-130 Premier Novice Viola Outfit - 14"

15 " viola. Bought in an emergency as I broke my current viola just before my grade exam and needed something to practise on while it is being repaired. The sound improves quickly the more it's played. It is somewhat soft but still pleasant to listen to. It's a good first viola for players up to about grade 5.I am still enjoying playing this viola. However, as I suspected post grade 5 I will either have to buy a more advanced instrument or upgrade it by changing the strings and purchasing a better bow. It's given me a lot of pleasure so I'm tempted to hang on to it and use it when I'm travelling.

I bought this from Amazon earlier this year. Delivery was quick and efficient and the item arrive undamaged. The only issue was that the bow had been packed in such a way that it was impossible to remove it without damaging some of the hairs. However, this was a minor issue and, compared to the Chinese instruments I used to play on in my youth and some I've tried and seen more recently, this purchase was excellent value for money. Chinese violin/viola makers seem to have come a long way in recent years.The wood used (spruce and maple) seems to be decent quality with no splits or issues. Mine came with Daddario Prelude strings, which are playable and decent quality. The viola itself has a decent sound, isn't too heavy, seems to be well finished and looks good. These strings and the viola would probably be fine up to about grade 5/6 standard, I would say. With a better bow and strings, it would probably take a student beyond that. Some fettling was needed, particularly the pegs, as is expected for any mass produced instrument that has travelled from one climate to another. The bridge seems well fitted, though, with the feet, string height and bridge shape about right.The case is pretty much as is standard across most instruments now - fits pretty well, provides good protection and, crucially, is light. The bow is made by Anton Breton (again, a Chinese make, I believe). Whilst it is nice to have a bow with a name on it and it works well enough, it is a bit basic.The outfit is pretty complete, with rosin, case, strap, bow. However, you will probably need to invest in a shoulder rest, if you don't have one already as, as with most outfits, this isn't supplied.Overall - a good purchase that I am pleased with.