In playing this viola one is immediately struck by its easy response and very open and focused tone. It is a very good instrument and a pleasure to play.
Any instrument bearing the Pretzschner name represents the excellent quality associated with the broad achievement of this enterprise founded by the eminent maker H R Pretzschner early in the twentieth century. This viola is no exception. It is beautifully made from an excellent choice of materials with great attention to the requirements of good lutherie. The label is undated but this viola appears to have been made around the 1980s.
The two piece back, ribs, neck and scroll are all made of nicely flamed maple with a distinct narrow curl. The top is of excellent tone spruce with narrow growth lines at the centre seam broadening slightly to the flanks. The Fs are elegant and nicely balanced.
This viola would be suitable for all genres of performance and should serve a discerning musician very well.