Testimonials
“I am delighted that this beautiful Gaspero da Salo viola by Stephanie Irvine has been my main instrument since 2015. It is comfortable and a pleasure to play. It has a remarkably big sound, holding its own with ease when in chamber groups alongside instruments by Stradivarius and Guarneri. The sound is even across all the strings. I have had many compliments on the warmth and richness of the sound in solo and chamber repertoire, and have ordered a second viola from Stephanie.”
Sally Beamish: chamber and solo violist, including Trondheim Kamfest, Musikdorf Ernen, Australian Festival of Chamber Music, IMS Prussia Cove, and recent solo recordings on the Delphian label).
“The beautiful cello I play made by Stephanie Irvine is a real joy. It has a warm but clear tone, is very even across the whole range and easy to play. The sound is rich and velvety and yet carries easily to the back of the hall. I’ve performed on it very often in recordings and chamber concerts where it holds its own alongside the Amatis and Strads of my colleagues.”
Robert Irvine: Professor of cello and chamber music Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Principal cello Red Note Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra of the West, Kyle string quartet and Da Vinci piano trio. Solo recording artist on numerous CS projects.
“In 2023 I took possession of a copy of a Grancino violin which I had commissioned from Stephanie Irvine in the autumn of 2022. The workmanship is excellent and the materials of an equally high standard. The 2-piece back being particularly beautiful. The instrument has a lovely warm tone yet speaks clearly. It is easily audible under the ear in orchestral situations and has very good projection without sounding harsh. The sound is continuing to grow with more playing. Overall, I am delighted with the instrument.”
“I recently played one of Stephanie’s viola and was impressed by her work. I would highly recommend her instruments to students and professionals.”
Charlotte Edwards (Thomas)
“I was fortunate enough to play on one of Stephanie's beautiful violas, and was amazed at the power and projection of the instrument, despite being conveniently sized for someone considerably smaller than me. The immediacy of tone, evenness between strings and quality in the higher registers were striking; I recommend Stephanie's instruments unreservedly.”
Matthew Jones: Violist, Violinist, Composer. Head of Chamber Music and Professor of Viola, Guildhall school of Music and Drama
Roland Roberts: Violinist, Pianist, Composer