Franz Hoffmann® Amadeus Viola - Quality & Affordability for Beginning Players This is a solid wood beginner viola designed specifically for students seeking quality sound and traditional craftsmanship at an accessible price point. The Franz Hoffmann Amadeus Viola represents exceptional value for beginning violists, combining solid tonal wood construction with professional-grade details like hand-carved bridges and genuine ebony fittings. As the entry point for the trusted Franz Hoffmann line, this instrument delivers warm, resonant tone quality that encourages practice and accelerates learning progress. Ideal for elementary through middle school students, as well as any beginner, the Amadeus viola features a solid spruce top that projects sound beautifully in practice rooms and recital halls alike. Each viola is individually set up and inspected to ensure proper playability, making it an excellent choice for parents, teachers, and students seeking reliable performance without compromise. Available in sizes from 16.5" all the way down to 11", the Amadeus grows with young musicians throughout their learning journey. Backed by Shar Music's 30-day satisfaction guarantee and trusted by music educators nationwide. Key Features Solid Spruce Top: Hand-selected solid spruce tonewood provides rich, resonant projection and improves with playing over time Genuine Ebony Fittings: Professional-grade ebony pegs, fingerboard, and chinrest ensure durability and smooth tuning stability Hand-Carved Bridge: Each bridge is individually carved and fitted to optimize string height and enhance tonal response Composite Tailpiece: Lightweight composite tailpiece with integrated fine tuners makes accurate tuning effortless for beginners Nitrocellulose Varnish: Heavy-duty nitrocellulose varnish creates an almost impermeable barrier to prevent scuffs, dents, and scratches Multiple Sizes Available: Complete size range from 11" to 16.5" ensures proper fit for students ages 4 and up Professionally Set Up: Each viola arrives fully adjusted and ready to play with proper string height and sound post placement Warm, Clear Tone: Balanced acoustic response across all four strings supports true musical expression from the first lesson 30-Day Guarantee: Risk-free trial period with full return privileges ensures complete satisfaction Specifications Specification Details Brand Franz Hoffmann Model Amadeus Player Level Beginner Strings Overture Premium Top Material Solid Spruce Back & Sides Solid Maple Fingerboard Ebony Pegs Ebony Chinrest Ebony Tailpiece Composite with four integrated fine tuners Bridge Hand-carved maple, individually fitted Varnish Nitrocellulose Sizes Available 11", 12", 13", 14", 15", 15.5", 16", 16.5" Why Choose the Franz Hoffmann Amadeus Viola? Trusted by Music Educators: Franz Hoffmann violas are recommended by teachers nationwide for their consistent quality and reliable performance in student hands. Real Solid Wood Construction: Unlike laminated beginner instruments, the Amadeus features solid tonal woods that produce a beautiful sound and actually improve with age. Professional Details at Entry-Level Pricing: Hand-carved bridges, genuine ebony fittings, and individual setup are typically found on instruments costing significantly more. Risk-Free Trial: Shar Music's 30-day guarantee lets students and families try the instrument at home with complete peace of mind. Grows With Your Student: Complete size range means you can stay with the trusted Franz Hoffmann quality as your child grows and progresses. Care Instructions Wipe the viola after each playing session with a soft, dry cloth to remove rosin dust and perspiration Store in its case when not in use to protect from dust, bumps, and sudden changes in temperature or humidity Use a case blanket when stored in the case to prevent rosin from depositing on the instrument while it is stored Check the bridge occasionally and ensure it remains upright and properly positioned, especially after tuning Replace strings when needed, typically every 6–12 months depending on playing frequency and use FAQ Q: What size viola does my child need?A: Viola sizing is generally based on arm length, not age. A teacher or luthier can measure from the neck to the center of the palm. Generally: 15"-16.5" (ages 15+), 13"-14" (ages 9-15), 11"-12" (ages 9 and younger), and smaller sizes for younger children. When in doubt, consult with your music teacher or a trusted professional. Size Selection Guide Size Arm Length Typical Age Range Body Length 16"+ 25" or more Ages 15 to adult 16"+ (406mm+) 15.5" 24" or more Ages 15 to adult 15.5" (393mm) 15" 23"-24" Ages 13-15 15" (381mm) 14" 22"-23" Ages 11-13 14" (356mm) 13" 20"-22" Ages 9-11 13" (330mm) 12" 18"-20" Ages 7-9 12" (304mm) 11" 18" and under Ages 7 and under 11" (279mm) How to Measure: Extend left arm straight out to the side. Measure from the base of the neck to the center of the palm. Round down if between sizes. Q: Why are the viola sizes different than violin sizes?A: Violins have relatively standardized sizes, but violas do not. Because violas are tuned lower, they need a larger body to produce their deeper sound. A perfectly proportional viola, however, would be too large for most people to play comfortably. Viola makers therefore use a range of sizes and designs to balance rich sound with comfortable reach and playability. Q: Does this viola come with a bow and case?A: This listing is for the viola instrument only. For a complete outfit including bow, case, rosin, and shoulder rest, please see the Franz Hoffmann Amadeus Viola Outfit or the Franz Hoffmann Amadeus Viola Deluxe Outfit. Q: How does the Amadeus compare to the Franz Hoffmann Concert viola?A: The Amadeus is an excellent entry-level instrument, while the Concert model offers enhanced tonal complexity and projection for advancing students. Both feature solid wood construction, but the Concert includes upgraded varnish and more selective wood grading. Q: Is the viola ready to play when it arrives?A: Yes! Every Franz Hoffmann viola is professionally set up at Shar Music's workshop, including bridge fitting, sound post adjustment, and string installation. Simply tune and play! Q: What is your return policy?A: Shar Music offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied, you can return the viola within 30 days of purchase for a full refund or exchange. Due to the handmade nature of these instruments, your viola may have a different visual appearance than what is pictured.
