Endeavour 'Artisan' violas are meticulously hand crafted in China to strict design and quality specifications of The String Workshop. They stand out from other brands of 'heavy' and 'dull' instruments which are swamping today's market.

Endeavour 'Artisan' violas are light-weight and produce an alive, and clear resonance which far exceeds the tone of other instruments in this price range. Made from carefully hand selected fine-grained and seasoned tonewoods, they are lovingly hand crafted, carefully varnished, and then undergo thorough quality control checks before being sent to New Zealand. Once they arrive in New Zealand, they are again inspected and evaluated for quality. Each instrument is then personally set-up by Phil Whitehead and professionally adjusted for perfect playability, and for the most clear and balanced tone. New Zealand's viola teachers agree; Endeavour 'Artisan' viola are excellent intermediate level instruments.

ENDEAVOUR "ARTISAN" specs:

• Pegs: Ebony

• Fingerboard: Ebony

• Bridge: 'Aubert' (France)

• Tailpiece: 'Wittner', with built-in precision fine-tuners. (Germany)

• Strings: Corelli 'New Crystal' (France)

• Belly: Solid select spruce

• Back: Solid flamed maple

• Ribs: Solid flamed maple

• Varnish: Traditional style satin finish

• Bow: Brazilian hardwood stick. Nickel mounted ebony frog. Natural unbleached horsehair. Silver lapping. Leather thumb grip.

• Case: Lightweight oblong deluxe model. Water resistant durable nylon cover, impact resistant styrofoam core. With four bow clips, string tube, A4 sheet music pocket, and 2 removable shoulder straps.

"Hi Phil, a huge thank you for saving the birthday by getting the viola out to us so quickly.  It is really beautiful, and I am amazed at the difference in sound between the hired viola (which was brand new!) and the one from you.  I will be sure to pass your details on to anyone I hear of who needs a stringed instrument.  Thanks again :) "

"Phil got a viola sent out to me quick smart before the Covid19 lockdown, so that it would be here in time for my daughters birthday. It is a beautiful instrument with a lovely sound, and was very well packaged for transit. My daughter has only been playing since the start of the year, and the rental viola she had been using until now was very screechy, she hasn't managed an unpleasant noise with her new one, so we are both very happy!"

You are welcome to visit 'The String Workshop' in Mairangi Bay and "Try before you buy."