Steffen Nowak Viola, Bristol 2017

This handsome viola was made by Steffen Nowak in Bristol in 2017, and is based on the celebrated 1676 Andrea Guarneri viola known as the 'Conte Vitale' which features a notable knot in the table. It combines a classical Cremonese inspiration with the precision and clarity of a contemporary maker, offering a viola with real character, warmth, and presence. A distinctive knot in the front wood gives the instrument a unique visual signature, echoing the natural markings found on some historic Guarneri instruments.
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The outline gives a good sense of breadth without feeling unwieldy, making it a viola that is easy to manage in the hand and under the bow. It has the sort of setup and responsiveness that encourages confidence from the first notes.

In terms of how it works, the instrument responds readily to the player’s input, speaking quickly and evenly across the strings. It should offer a clear, focused attack with enough flexibility for shaping phrases, while still retaining the warmth and depth expected from a Guarneri-inspired viola. The sound can be described as centred and expressive, with a good core to the tone, a singing upper register, and a lower range that remains round and substantial without becoming diffuse.

Overall, this is a viola that combines thoughtful making, attractive individuality, and a characterful voice. It will appeal to players looking for an instrument with personality, clarity, and a classical tonal profile that still feels direct and modern.

The back in a single piece of slab cut maple of irregular medium-fine curl. The ribs of similar curl. The pegbox and scroll of less pronounced medium curl. The front in two pieces of spruce of medium grain with a distinctive knot on the lower treble flank. The varnish of a rich, warm amber-brown color on a golden amber ground.

Labelled

Steffen Nowak fecit Bristol 2017 

S.NOWAK

and a second label

Andreas Guarnerius fecit Cremonae sub

Titulo Sanctae Terelae 1676

Length of back 397 mm 15 5/8 inches

Width upper bout 190 mm

Width middle bout 134 mm

Width lower bout 234 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.