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PAUL J. RIDDEN – Violin labelled: Limited Edition No.6

Crafted in 2024, this violin has a beautifully sweet, clear tone that resonates with warmth and richness, making it a strong, projecting instrument. The lower strings have a warm, full- bodied sound that maintains clarity and power, while the higher strings deliver a bold, powerful tone—a distinctive quality found in many of Paul’s recent instruments.The violin offers a wide range of tonal colours, with impressive dynamic range that will likely deepen over time, unlocking even more expressive possibilities. Visually, the instrument is finished with a lovely amber varnish that gives it a clean, elegant look—a notable shift from the darker hues of Paul’s earlier work.
This instrument responds exceptionally well, maintaining clarity even when challenged with a variety of techniques. It handles sustained bow strokes beautifully, with a strong, clear voice, while also excelling in more articulated strokes like spiccato and sautillé. I also noticed minimal bow noise, a welcome quality that some modern violins struggle with.
This violin is well-suited for emerging professional musicians, and I find it particularly ideal for chamber music. Its sweet, easy response makes it a pleasure to play, though it may not quite have the power needed for solo performances.

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