Fine English Violin by Nigel Harris (Wells, Somerset, 1990)

An exceptional contemporary British instrument of remarkable pedigree, this 1990 violin represents a golden era of making by the highly esteemed luthier Nigel Harris. Crafted during his celebrated period in Wells, Somerset, this instrument combines rigorous acoustic science with traditional master craftsmanship to deliver a tool built strictly for the demanding professional. He developed his approach over decades and worked with Roger Sheldon on acoustic ideas aimed at increasing power and projection.

Provenance & Performance History

This instrument comes with an impeccable professional pedigree, having been the long-term chosen instrument of a highly accomplished British violinist, chamber musician, and dedicated string educator.

It has been rigorously played and proven across decades of active, high-level musical life, including:

• Chamber & Ensemble Performance: Served as a primary voice in established classical ensembles, string sextets, and chamber groups performing sophisticated repertoire (including major works by Brahms, Tchaikovsky, and Mozart).

• Featured Solo Appearances: Entrusted with the demanding responsibilities of a featured concerto soloist, performing alongside established opera and classical orchestras.

• Festival & Recital Highlights: Frequently performed in prominent regional music festivals and recital series, delivering highly praised interpretations of classical and 18th-century repertoire.

• Professional Pedagogy: Utilized continuously in the hands of an experienced violin coach and chamber music tutor while guiding advanced players.

Because it has been continuously played at a professional level for decades, the timber is completely "opened up." It offers a maturity, depth, and immediate responsiveness that only a lifetime of dedicated artistic use can produce.

Acoustic Profile & Characteristics

Nigel Harris is globally recognized for his pioneering research into acoustic dynamics and plate arching (famously published in The Strad). His instruments are explicitly engineered to provide the immense power and soloistic projection required by professionals, without sacrificing tonal beauty.

• The Sound: Distinctly powerful, deep, and brilliant. The lower register is rich and resonant, while the upper strings sing with a brilliant, shimmering clarity that carries perfectly across an ensemble.

• The Response: Exceptionally quick under the bow. It responds beautifully to subtle shifts in pressure and speed, making it an incredibly versatile partner for intricate chamber repertoire, orchestral playing, and solo work alike.

Player Note

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a fully mature, professionally proven instrument by one of Britain's most respected modern luthiers. It is perfectly suited for an active chamber musician, an ensemble player, or an advanced student looking for an instrument with genuine performance maturity and a rich history.

The back in two pieces of maple of faint broad curl descending across the back from the center joint. The ribs of similar curl. The pegbox and scroll of plain maple. The front in two matching pieces of spruce of medium grain. The varnish of a warm orange-brown color on a light yellow-brown ground.

Labelled

Made by Nigel Harris

Wells, Somerset.  1990

Length of back 356 mm

Width upper bout 168 mm

Width middle bout 112 mm

Width lower bout 208 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.