Viola by Johann Baptist Schweitzer 1847

János Láposi's Viola

This exquisite viola has been János Láposi's faithful companion throughout his illustrious career.

János Láposi, a distinguished Hungarian violist and pedagogue, has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. His virtuosity shines through his solo performances, his contributions to the Budapest Opera House, and his three-decade tenure with the esteemed Budapest Strings Chamber Orchestra.

As a dedicated educator at the Béla Bartók Conservatory of Music in Budapest, Láposi has nurtured exceptional talent. His protégés, including the acclaimed Gábor Somfai and Ibolya Vörösvary, stand testament to his pedagogical prowess.

Láposi's unwavering commitment to the viola and his profound expertise have earned him reverence within Hungary's classical music sphere, significantly enriching both the development of emerging artists and Budapest's vibrant performance culture.

Johann Baptist Schweitzer, born in 1790 in Pécs, Hungary, is one of the most distinguished violin makers of the Viennese school. His journey in the craft began under the tutelage of Franz Geissenhof in Vienna, where he honed his skills before returning to Budapest in 1825. There, he continued his masterful work until his passing in 1865.

Schweitzer's legacy in violin-making is truly remarkable. He pioneered an academic approach to classical violin designs, meticulously emulating the revered Stradivari and Amati patterns. This innovative methodology marked a significant departure from the waning Stainer models of the era, revolutionising the craft.

The impact of Schweitzer's expertise reverberated through generations of luthiers. His pupils and assistants, including luminaries such as Gabriel Lemböck, Anton Sitt, Jan Baptista Dvorák, Samuel Nemessányi, and Thomas Zach, carried his teachings forward. This illustrious lineage of craftsmen spread Schweitzer's influence across Austria, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia, shaping the future of violin-making in these regions.

Schweitzer's dedication to his art and his profound influence on the craft continue to resonate in the world of stringed instruments to this day.

The back in two pieces of maple of medium curl descending across the back from the centre joint, the ribs of similar curl, the pegbox and scroll of somewhat less pronounced similar curl. The front in two pieces of spruce of broad grain. The varnish of a warm, golden orange-brown color on an amber ground.

Labelled

Joh. Bapt. Schweitzer

fecit ad formam

Hieronym. Amati Pestini 1847

Length of back 388 mm 15 ¼ inches

Width upper bout 179 mm

Width middle bout 124 mm

Width lower bout 222 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.