Genuzio Carletti (b. 1905 d. 1996) From a young age Carletti apprenticed under his uncle Carlo Carletti who was a well established violin maker. In 1936 Carletti started working independently as a violin maker, and in 1949 Carletti won first prize at Cremona for a viola. This viola in particular is a wonderful example of the masterful work that Carletti produced during his life. It produces a perfect balance of color and clarity across all ranges, and creates the classic richness and depth in the lower register that all violist are looking for. This instrument is finished with a beautiful amber varnish and has a stunning offset flaming across its 2-piece back. Based on its careful craftmanship, it’s clear how much care Genuzio Carletti put into all of his instruments. It is of the quality sought-after by professional players. (original papers from Carletti)