Rare Opportunity - Baroque Viola by David J Rubio Cambridge 1986

Step into the world of authentic period performance with this remarkable baroque viola, made by the renowned English luthier David J Rubio in Cambridge in 1986. Rubio's instruments are acclaimed worldwide for their craftsmanship, tonal beauty, and historical expertise—his output across guitars, lutes, harpsichords, violins, violas, and cellos has earned him a coveted reputation among collectors and leading musicians alike.

Made in Cambridge at the peak of Rubio's artistry, he is noted for recreating the classical sound and appearance of old Cremonese masters.

This instrument boasts a distinguished career with leading early music ensembles:

• Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
• The Academy of Ancient Music
• The London Classical Players
• The English Concert
• Orchestre Révolutionnaire Et Romantique

These ensembles are at the forefront of historically informed performance, favoured for their vibrant sound and authenticity on period instruments.

Used in concert halls worldwide, this viola has accompanied acclaimed musicians in the most exacting settings.

Rubio's knowledge of historical construction and surface treatments yields a warm, resonant voice ideal for baroque and classical repertoire.

Rubio’s attention to period detail—drawn from extensive research and collaborations with top musicians—ensures historical authenticity and playing comfort.

David Rubio's instruments are increasingly sought-after, valued for their rarity, musicality, and investment potential.

David J.Rubio - Violin Maker, (born David Joseph Spinks, 1934–2000) was an acclaimed English luthier renowned for crafting high-quality violins, violas, cellos, and a wide range of other stringed instruments, including guitars, lutes, and harpsichords.

Originally trained as a medical student, he turned to music after discovering his color-blindness barred him from a surgical career. He became a flamenco guitarist in Spain, where he adopted the surname "Rubio" due to his red beard.

Rubio began making guitars in New York before returning to England and eventually setting up a workshop in Cambridge. There, he concentrated on both modern and baroque string instruments, earning worldwide recognition for his craftsmanship.

He was innovative in his approach, collaborating with Cambridge University scientists to research and replicate the varnishes and treatments used by classical Italian makers like Stradivarius, aiming to reproduce their renowned tone.

Over a 40-year career, Rubio created more than 1,000 instruments, which became highly sought after by musicians and collectors. His work was honored by the naming of the Rubio Quartet, which plays exclusively on his instruments.

Rubio passed away in 2000, leaving a significant legacy in the world of instrument making.

The back in two matching pieces of maple of medium curl descending across the back from the center joint. The ribs, neck, pegbox and scroll of similar curl. The front in two matching pieces of spruce of medium grain. The varnish of a beautiful red-brown color over an amber ground.

Labelled

DAVID J. RUBIO

Cambridge Anno 1986

Length of back 411 mm 16.18 inches

Width upper bout 189 mm

Width middle bout 131 mm

Width lower bout 245 mm

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.