Wojciech Topa is considered to be the most outstanding practitioner of violin making in Poland today. Many of his instruments are played in major orchestras, including the Cleveland orchestra and the Atlanta Symphony. His shop is in Zakopane, Poland. he sets the highest standards for wood choice and workmanship, and his instruments always are dramatic in sound. His work has the exacting character of the German school, but has the lyric human quality of the Italians. These violins are among the finest instruments being made in the world today!
Topas's "bench" (handmade) violins are handcrafted in the style of Guarneri and Guadagnini utilizing methods employed in the violin making profession since the 1700's.
These gorgeous violins are carved of select well-seasoned Carpathian Maple for the neck, back and ribs with a European Spruce top. They are finished with hand applied traditional varnish. The fine instrument in the photos were varnished in Mediterranean yellow and red ochres to deep mahogany reds to produce gorgeous firey finishes.
The sound of these instruments is rich, full and powerful. The mature and glowing warm nuances make it a violin for professional players or amateurs who want "the best" in a new violin without the $20k price tag!
Many professionals around the globe play a Topa violin, including Polish violin virtuoso Janusz Wawrowski who featured the Topa on his CD recording of the Paganini Caprices in 2008. Add to that recent customers in Canada, United States and Hong Kong; there is a growing list of ecstatic Topa players.
It is very important to mention that Wojciech Topa is NOT to be confused with Albert Topa, nor workshop instruments bearing the Topa label. These are certainly the finest instruments made by any Topa. Keep this in mind when comparison shopping.
Each violin is equipped with fine hand-carved ebony fittings (rosewood by special request), Evah Pirazzi strings, and a deluxe European maple bridge setup by Topa himself.
Topa,Wojciech
