W.E Hill & Sons Violin London

This violin was made at the Hill & Sons firm in 1889, in London. W. E. Hill & Sons (1887–1992) was a London-based firm that specialised in violins and other string instruments, as well as bows. It was also known as William Hill & Sons or William E. Hill & Sons. Founded by William Ebsworth Hill at 38 New Bond Street, London in 1887, the name W. E. Hill & Sons built on a long family history of violin making going back to William Ebsworth's great grandfather, Joseph Hill. The firm soon gained a widespread reputation for excellence in repairs, making of instruments, bows, cases and fittings as well as instrument identification and authentication. Many fine craftsmen worked for the firm, and they were particularly famous for their bow makers, their work renowned for its character and consistency.

The violin is labelled "William E. Hill & Sons / Makers , 38 New Bond Street, London. 1889. Nº 14". The body measures 362mm along the back, 163mm across the upper bouts and 203mm across the lower bouts. It has a one-piece back of highly flamed maple with a strident, narrow curl, and matching ribs and scroll. The top is finely grained spruce of even growth, and the violin is finished with an amber-red varnish and ebony fittings. It is in good condition. 

It has a smooth, sophisticated sound, textured with lots of complexities, both delicate and rich. It has a solid core to its sound in all registers and is eminently playable, both under the left hand and for the bow. Overall, it has a warmer, rounded feel to it, which is very suitable for chamber and orchestral repertoire, and has plenty of projection for most soloistic repertoire, and as such, this violin would be perfectly suited to any professional musician. 

Please contact us if you would like to book an appointment to try this beautiful English violin.