A Fine Contemporary French Viola by Yann Poulain in Montpellier, 2020. 420mm or 16 1/2.”

Yann Poulain (b.1979-) learned violin from his grandfather, a symphony musician, and received guild certification in cabinet making before enrolling in the Newark School of Violin Making, from which he graduated with distinction in 2001. He worked as Friedrich Alber’s assistant in Montpellier from 2002 to 2005 and concurrently assisted Frederic Chaudiere from 2004 to 2005, focusing on refining his work as a copyist. Poulain established an independent workshop in Montpellier in 2005 and has spent the last 20 years crafting highly esteemed instruments which he has presented at famous exhibitions such as Musicora in Paris, Mondomusica in Cremona, RNCM Cello Festival in Manchester, Music Korea in Seoul, etc…

This beautiful 420mm (16.5”) viola was meticulously crafted by Yann Poulain in his Montpellier workshop in 2020 and has seen since consistent performing and competitions. Graceful and well-executed, with attention given to the smallest details - from wood selection to its subsequent varnish, it presents a refined aesthetic with a boisterous voice: brimming with depth, conveying a sultry sizzle, and offering an unyielding resistance to even the most dramatic of articulations.