Instruments bearing the label 'François Barzoni' were produced at Château-Thierry near Paris during the period 1880 to 1920 and were made exclusively for the London firm of Beare & Son. The label is dated 1891.
In this cello one is immediately struck by two things: Firstly, it is very well-toned, speaks with clarity and projection and is easy to perform on. Its tonal properties are not only satisfying for a demanding player, but also make it a pleasure to listen to. It has all the characteristics suitable for solo performance.
Secondly, this instrument shows all the signs of having been much played and used - in itself an indication of appreciation by its previous owners.
All Barzonis were made of carefully selected Swiss spruce and well-figured sycamore.