V. RICHELIEU
Musically Made in Vermont, USA
Unveiling the Da Salo Model Viola: Where Timeless Elegance Meets Unrivaled Sound
This viola has a 15.5” back seam, but a string length of a 15” viola….creating a larger sound on a viola scale that is exceptionally easy to manage!
The Da Salo Model Viola is a masterpiece of craftsmanship that pays homage to the legendary Italian viol maker, Gasparo da Salo. Impeccably designed and meticulously constructed, this extraordinary instrument embodies the essence of classical beauty while delivering an unparalleled musical experience.
Immerse yourself in the rich tones and captivating resonance of the Da Salo Model Viola. Each instrument is meticulously handcrafted by master luthiers who have dedicated their lives to perfecting their art. Every detail, from the selection of the finest tonewoods to the precision carving and shaping of the instrument, has been thoughtfully considered to ensure exceptional playability and tonal quality.
The Da Salo Model Viola stands as a testament to the timeless traditions of Italian violin-making. Inspired by the legendary Gasparo da Salo, an iconic figure in the history of stringed instruments, this model captures the essence of his legendary craftsmanship. The Da Salo Model Viola carries forward the tradition with a blend of authenticity and innovation, fusing centuries-old techniques with modern advancements in instrument construction.
Crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, each Da Salo Model Viola is an individual work of art. The top is made from carefully selected spruce, while the back, sides, and scroll are hand-carved from premium maple. The varnish, meticulously applied by hand, enhances both the instrument's visual appeal and tonal characteristics, allowing for a well-rounded and expressive sound.
The Da Salo Model Viola is not only visually stunning but also offers exceptional playability and responsiveness. Its balanced tonal palette provides a wide range of expressive possibilities, allowing musicians to explore their creativity and convey emotions through their music. From the warm and sonorous lower register to the vibrant and singing upper register, this instrument exhibits remarkable versatility and projection.
Whether you are a professional musician, a dedicated student, or an avid collector, the Da Salo Model Viola is a true treasure that deserves a special place in your musical journey. It embodies the soul of centuries of violin-making tradition while embracing the needs of contemporary players. Experience the beauty and power of this remarkable instrument and discover a new world of musical possibilities.
Embrace the legacy of Gasparo da Salo and let the Da Salo Model Viola elevate your musical expression to new heights. Prepare to embark on a journey of sound and immerse yourself in the captivating allure of this extraordinary instrument.
V. Richelieu™ Instruments Are Made Using Ebony Alternatives and Sustainable Woods
INTRODUCING V. RICHELIEU VIOLINS & VIOLAS
100% MADE IN OUR VERMONT WORKSHOP
Each V. RICHELIEU™ instrument is uniquely crafted to make each piece of wood sing in full voice. The instruments are built in Vermont to combine over 80 years of experience with unique hand graduations and a beautiful hand-painted oil varnish of our own proprietary formulation. The V. Richelieu small violas are unique in their modelling as we do not work from a violin model in shaping the outline nor setting the graduations. The stops in our small instruments (as small as 11”) are true viola stops allowing children to capture the true rich tones of a viola while developing excellent viola technique. We offer in-house, low-interest financing as well as a very attractive rental program that offers a low payment and generous equity accrual.
V. Richelieu violins are 100% made in Vermont. Hand-split spruce tonewood is imported from Italy and Switzerland; maple comes to us from Bosnia. Together, these woods form a violin of unique distinction offering fine instrument quality at very affordable prices.Each instrument is hand-graduated by our senior luthiers. The oil-based varnish is hand painted by an accomplished oil portrait artist. Each instrument is unique, but each offers a tonal quality perfect for the advancing student, conservatory student or professional player.
V. Richelieu viola are 100% made in Vermont. Hand-split spruce tonewood is imported from Italy and Switzerland; maple comes to us from Bosnia. Together, these woods form a viola of unique distinction offering fine instrument quality at very affordable prices.Our child-sized violas are true violas: modeled after a 16” model, scaled down for children. Finally, a fractional viola that actually sounds like a viola! Most small violas are modeled after violins, and the resulting instruments never perform…our V. Richelieu violas sing with the resonance a viola is meant to have: from the soaring highs of the A string to the haunting lows of the C.Each instrument is hand-graduated by our senior luthiers. The oil-based varnish is hand painted by an accomplished oil portrait artist. Each instrument is unique, but each offers a tonal quality perfect for the advancing student, conservatory student or professional player.
V. Richelieu viola are 100% made in Vermont. Hand-split spruce tonewood is imported from Italy and Switzerland; maple comes to us from Bosnia. Together, these woods form a viola of unique distinction offering fine instrument quality at very affordable prices.Our child-sized violas are true violas: modeled after a 16” model, scaled down for children. Finally, a fractional viola that actually sounds like a viola! Most small violas are modeled after violins, and the resulting instruments never perform…our V. Richelieu violas sing with the resonance a viola is meant to have: from the soaring highs of the A string to the haunting lows of the C.Each instrument is hand-graduated by our senior luthiers. The oil-based varnish is hand painted by an accomplished oil portrait artist. Each instrument is unique, but each offers a tonal quality perfect for the advancing student, conservatory student or professional player.
Discover a world of rich sound and exquisite craftsmanship with our Special Edition Instruments. Crafted by skilled luthiers, these instruments are built using a diverse range of North American spruce and maple species, offering musicians a wide array of tonal colors and textures. Delve into the legacy of traditional European tonewoods fused with the innovative spirit of American craftsmanship, resulting in instruments that deliver unparalleled performance and sonic versatility.
Introducing our V. Richelieu Special Edition Instruments, meticulously crafted by our innovative luthiers who constantly push boundaries to bring you unique designs and exceptional quality.
Note: Available in sizes 11” - 14” on request - email us at info@vrichelieu.com
The Secret to a Great Violin Performance: Violin Essentials
Elevate your musical journey with more than just a violin or a viola. The secret to a truly great performance lies in the essentials. From the perfect rosin that enhances tone to a supportive shoulder rest and the right bow, each component plays a critical role in your playing experience.
We are dedicated to helping you find the perfect match. Our expert team provides personalised customer service, ensuring you get the right accessories for your needs. Don't just take our word for it—our satisfied customers consistently rave about our recommendations and service.
Ready to unlock your full potential? Shop our curated collection of violin and viola essentials now and experience the difference.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
Note: Please contact for availability.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
If you have custom Sonowood requirements, please reach out to us by filling out the below form. Call for Cello Fingerboards pricing at (802) 862-0349.
Not ready to commit a purchase yet? You can always rent these beautiful instruments. Click on the link to rent.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
Ebony-alternative Sonowood Bow Frog blocks. Sonowood carves just like ebony, has a refined and beautiful appearance and is as durable as traditional wood -- but is made from compressed wood sustainably sourced in Europe.
Ebony-alternative Sonowood Bow Frog blocks. Sonowood carves just like ebony, has a refined and beautiful appearance and is as durable as traditional wood -- but is made from compressed wood sustainably sourced in Europe.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Sonowood is a natural wood product that compresses common, sustainably harvested, species into beautiful wood that has the strength and tonal response of traditional ebony. Ebony woods are, threatened or endangered and Vermont Violins is proud to offer this beautiful and effective alternative to violin makers throughout the USA. We use Sonowood on our own V. Richelieu instruments with great effect.
Please contact for Availability.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Luthier workshops will find GaiaTone an economically and visually similar alternative to ebony. GaiaTone fingerboards are sufficiently porous to bind with hide glues. The stock shape can be adjusted with sandpaper, rasps, and planes along the top and bottom surfaces. The dark, black color is consistent throughout the product. GaiaTone fittings have similar technical specifications to ebony, but are more stable. GaiaTone fittings are available in non-black colors as well for kids, rockstars and players desiring an alternative look and personality.
GaiaTone Fittings are milled in Vermont, USA. Fingerboards have scoop, undercuts, rounded edges---ready to install.
Currently available in solid black. Custom Colors are Available (See images). Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Luthier workshops will find GaiaTone an economically and visually similar alternative to ebony. GaiaTone fingerboards are sufficiently porous to bind with hide glues. The stock shape can be adjusted with sandpaper, rasps, and planes along the top and bottom surfaces. The dark, black color is consistent throughout the product. GaiaTone fittings have similar technical specifications to ebony, but are more stable. GaiaTone fittings are available in non-black colors as well for kids, rockstars and players desiring an alternative look and personality.
GaiaTone Fittings are milled in Vermont, USA. Fingerboards have scoop, undercuts, rounded edges---ready to install.
Currently available in solid black. Custom Colors are Available (See images). Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Luthier workshops will find GaiaTone an economically and visually similar alternative to ebony. GaiaTone fingerboards are sufficiently porous to bind with hide glues. The stock shape can be adjusted with sandpaper, rasps, and planes along the top and bottom surfaces. The dark, black color is consistent throughout the product. GaiaTone fittings have similar technical specifications to ebony, but are more stable. GaiaTone fittings are available in non-black colors as well for kids, rockstars and players desiring an alternative look and personality.
GaiaTone Fittings are milled in Vermont, USA. Fingerboards have scoop, undercuts, rounded edges---ready to install.Currently available in solid black. Custom Colors are Available (See images). Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
Currently available in solid black. Custom Colors are Available (See images). Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Luthier workshops will find GaiaTone an economically and visually similar alternative to ebony. GaiaTone fingerboards are sufficiently porous to bind with hide glues. The stock shape can be adjusted with sandpaper, rasps, and planes along the top and bottom surfaces. The dark, black color is consistent throughout the product. GaiaTone fittings have similar technical specifications to ebony, but are more stable. GaiaTone fittings are available in non-black colors as well for kids, rockstars and players desiring an alternative look and personality.
GaiaTone Fittings are milled in Vermont, USA. Fingerboards have scoop, undercuts, rounded edges---ready to install.
Currently available in solid black. Custom Colors are Available (See images). Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
Call for wholesale pricing. Only fingerboard (bass not included)
Please allow two weeks for your order to be processed.
Luthier workshops will find GaiaTone an economically and visually similar alternative to ebony. GaiaTone fingerboards are sufficiently porous to bind with hide glues. The stock shape can be adjusted with sandpaper, rasps, and planes along the top and bottom surfaces. The dark, black color is consistent throughout the product. GaiaTone fittings have similar technical specifications to ebony, but are harder, require less adjustments and are more stable.
GaiaTone Fittings are milled in Vermont, USA. Fingerboards have scoop, undercuts, rounded edges---ready to install.
Currently available in Black Color. Please fill out the form and let us know your requirements.
V. Richelieu & Vermont Violins Co-Branded Merchandise Collection.
• 80% organic cotton, 20% recycled polyester
• 100% organic cotton exterior
• Frenchy terry knit
• Set-in sleeves
• 2×2 rib at collar
• Self-fabric neck tape
• Blank product sourced from Bangladesh
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
• 100% polyester maximum thermal retention (MTR) fleece
• Fabric weight: 7.4 oz/yd² (175 g/m2)
• Modern yet classic fit
• Zippered pockets
• Soft material that’s perfect for cold weather
• Branded with Columbia logo
• Blank product sourced from Bangladesh
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
• 100% polyester maximum thermal retention (MTR) fleece
• Fabric weight: 7.4 oz/yd² (175 g/m2)
• Modern yet classic fit
• Zippered pockets
• Soft material that’s perfect for cold weather
• Branded with Columbia logo
• Blank product sourced from Bangladesh
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
• 80% organic cotton, 20% recycled polyester
• 100% organic cotton exterior
• Frenchy terry knit
• Set-in sleeves
• 2×2 rib at collar
• Self-fabric neck tape
• Blank product sourced from Bangladesh
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
What People Are Saying
“This viola has 2 distinct features: power, and size. It is very rare to find a viola at this size with this much power. The instrument is also very well balanced across all four strings. Overall it is a very nice instrument at the price of an advanced student but the quality of a professional.”
— ANDREW KRIMM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/BOULDER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
“This violin by V. Richelieu really knocked me out. Its tone is strong but warm and very even throughout the registers, it feels easy to play, and responds well to a variety of styles. Whether you are embarking on your journey as an ambitious violin student or looking for a solid second violin as a professional, it doesn’t get much better than this!”
— RACHEL SEGAL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE PRIMAVERA FUND
“Vermont Violins’ “Richlieu” model speaks easily, plays very smoothly, and has a lovely resonance. I love the sonowood fingerboard for several reasons, including the environmental impact and the unique look. Some violinists might be concerned with using other types of wood for such an important part of the violin, but I can say that the fingerboard plays and feels exactly like ebony. This would be a great step-up violin for an aspiring conservatory student or a violin for a seasoned pro who wants a high-performing violin.”