Luis Claudio Manfio ‘Cittadella’ Viola, São Paulo, 2024

This fine contemporary viola by Luis Claudio Manfio represents the maker’s deeply considered personal model, ‘Cittadella’, developed over decades of specialist focus on the viola. While rooted in the great Italian tradition—particularly drawing inspiration from Andrea Guarneri—Manfio has refined the form with a distinctly modern, player-oriented approach. The corners are slightly shortened, while the lower and C bouts are broadened, enhancing both tonal breadth and physical comfort. The subtly Guarneri-inspired treatment of the back wings further reflects this lineage.

Manfio’s philosophy places the musician at the centre of the instrument’s design: this is conceived foremost as a tool for players rather than a purely aesthetic object. His long-standing dedication to the viola, influenced in part by the artistry of Michael Tree of the Guarneri Quartet, has led him to focus almost exclusively on viola making for decades.

The back is crafted from a single piece of slab-cut American red maple, selected for its medium to broad quilted curl and comparatively lighter density, contributing to a responsive and resonant viola sound. The ribs, also slab-cut, show a faint medium curl, while the scroll and pegbox are carved from European maple of medium curl, lending structural strength and visual cohesion.

The front is formed from two matching pieces of low-density spruce of medium grain, chosen for its tonal flexibility and sensitivity under the bow. The instrument is finished in a warm orange oil varnish over a golden ground, creating a rich, luminous appearance with depth and clarity.

The viola measures 396 mm (15.5 inches) in body length, with an upper bout of 196 mm, middle bout of 148 mm, and lower bout of 256 mm—dimensions that balance power and playability.

Labelled

LUIS CLAUDIO MANFIO

Fecit in Sao Paulo

in 29/08/2024

Manfio’s violas are played by leading musicians worldwide, including Paul Cassidy of the Brodsky Quartet. Instruments of this model have been heard in major venues such as the Gewandhaus Leipzig and are used by players within the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (including Ugne Tiskute), as well as principals and soloists across six continents. Notable associations include the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, Korean Chamber Orchestra, Aarhus Symphony Orchestra, European Union Youth Orchestra, and performances in Kyiv, Córdoba, and beyond.

A distinguished and highly individual contemporary viola, offering depth, projection, and refined tonal colour—ideal for the serious violist seeking both character and reliability in performance.

Delivery

We deliver to customers across the UK and worldwide. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive an email confirmation with your shipping details and tracking number.

We work with trusted courier partners such as UPS and Parcelforce to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of your purchase.

Please note that if you cancel your order for any reason other than those set out in our Returns and Refund Policy (for example, if you change your mind prior to dispatch or shortly after), we reserve the right to deduct any associated payment processing fees—such as PayPal or card transaction charges—from the amount refunded.

Returns and Exchanges

We understand that sometimes a product may not meet your expectations. You may return your item within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, provided it is in its original packaging and in resaleable condition. The cost of return shipping is the responsibility of the customer unless the product is faulty or incorrectly supplied.

Please include your full contact details and either the original invoice or a note clearly stating your name, address, order number, and whether you’d like an exchange or refund.

Returns should be sent to:

Standard Returns Policy

We are happy to exchange or refund any item that is faulty, damaged, or unsuitable for your needs. To qualify, items must be returned within 14 days of receipt, in perfect condition, and in their original sealed packaging with all labels and seals intact.

Your statutory rights are not affected. Please refer to our full Refund Policy below for additional information.

How to Return an Item (UK Customers)

• Pack the item securely in its original packaging (or an alternative sturdy box if necessary).
• Remove any old delivery labels.
• Enclose your invoice or a note including your name, address, contact details, and order number.
• Use a tracked postal or courier service of your choice when sending your return.
• Customers are responsible for the cost of return postage, which will not be reimbursed unless the item is found to be faulty or sent in error.

Once we receive your return, we will process it within 14 days. Refunds will be made to your original payment method, minus any applicable postage costs or transaction fees.

UK Exchanges

If you wish to exchange an item, we will cover the postage for the first replacement to UK addresses. Please include a note with your parcel clearly stating the item you wish to receive in exchange.

International Returns

Customers returning items from outside the UK are required to use a duty-paid service. Returns sent via duty unpaid or held by customs cannot be accepted.

Please securely repack your item (preferably in its original packaging) and remove all old shipping labels. We do not cover international return shipping costs. You must use a tracked, insured service suitable for your region.

Standard Returns Address

Please include your contact details, invoice, or a note indicating whether you would like a refund or exchange. You are responsible for paying return postage costs, and we recommend adequate postal insurance in case your parcel is lost or damaged in transit.

For any return queries, please email enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.

Refunds

Refunds are issued to the original payment method used for purchase. While we aim to process all refunds within 24 hours of receiving the return, please allow up to 10 working days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your payment provider.

In cases where an item is faulty, we may reimburse reasonable return postage costs upon confirmation. Please contact us at enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london for assistance.

Refunds will only be processed once the returned goods have been received and inspected. Proof of postage must be retained as evidence of return.

Refund Policy Summary

• Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt.
• Items must be unused, in their original packaging, with all tags attached.
• Returns without prior approval may not be accepted.
• Certain items are non-returnable, including perishable goods, custom-made items, personal goods, sale items, and gift cards.
• Damaged or defective items must be reported immediately upon receipt.
• Refunds, once approved, are issued to the original payment method. Original shipping charges are non-refundable, and deductions may apply for payment processing fees (e.g., PayPal).

For return requests or questions, please contact: enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.