In addition to the Amati copy models Chris has been making for some years, there are two new models of viola now available.
The Amati model
This model is based on an original viola by the Brothers Amati of Cremona, circa 1600. Chris had the privilege of setting up and studying this valuable viola for a number of years, during which time he made accurate copies. The original had of course been cut down from a considerably larger instrument – there is some debate as to whether it would have been played the other way up (like a viola da gamba). Chris makes more recent copies based on this Amati model which have incorporated certain ideas which he feels may be true to the intention of the original.
These instruments have a large and resonant sound; one of these violas was recently played in the Wigmore Hall and has been used for a number of professional solo viola recordings by Robin Ireland. Robin owned the original Brothers Amati viola; it is rewarding for Chris that Robin has commissioned a copy from him which he is now playing exclusively.
The Castello model
This model is based on an original viola by Paulo Castello of Genoa, circa 1770. Chris owned this viola for a number of years, during which time he was able to study it in depth and make accurate copies. It now belongs to the collection of fine instruments held by the Royal Northern College of Music. Over time, Chris has made minor adjustments which he feels have liberated the sound. These instruments have a very warm and noble sound, with an element of darkness in the lower register. He offers this model in several different sizes to suit individual requirements.
The violist of the Tallan String Quartet plays one of the smaller models and her sound is completely commensurate with the texture of the other instruments. The Castello model was also used recently for a private performance of the York Bowen Fantasie for four violas, where all four players played on this model. The sound was luscious…..
“The wealth of knowledge that Chris Tayler brings to his instrument making is remarkable. When I first met Chris over 20 years ago, I was struck by his ability to speak in detail on subjects spanning science, engineering, history, architecture and the arts, to name but a few.”
— Stella Mahrenholz: Violist of the Basel String Quartet; Viola Soloist with John Elliot Gardiner; Guest Principal viola with the Basel Chamber Orchestra and Bachakademie Stuttgart