Artimúsica Traditional Luthier 10 String "Viola de Arame" Madeira

The Wire Viola from the island of Madeira is a chordophone that descends from Portuguese viola, although its closest relatives are the Azorean viola.

However, while all of these are known as wire viola, the Madeira viola differentiates itself from the others by having the fingerboard raised above the soundboard instead of being flush. The playing technique for this instrument is the same as that used for playing Rajão and Braguinha.

The Wire Viola can be played with plucking or strumming techniques, and it stands out in a genre of improvisation called "Charamba", with instrumental interludes separating the verses of the so-called "Cantigas de Trabalho" (work songs).

The dissemination of the Wire Viola through the emigration of Madeiran settlers also influenced another instrument in Brazil, the Viola Caipira, which, in addition to physical characteristics and the number of strings in its tunings, adopted the same tuning, "Rio Abaixo."

The Wire Viola is strung with nine strings, with the individual string being the "Si," grouped into 5 courses from high to low: D B G D G.

This instrument is a unique luthier model.

Specifications: 

• Model: Luthier "Madeira"  
• Soundboard: Deluxe Englemann Spruce
• Back and sides: Solid Portuguese Walnut with mirrored back.
• Inlay: Selected Wenge
• Neck: Mahogany 
• Fingerboard: Selected Wenge
• Truss Rod
• Nut: Bone
• Bridge and Tail Piece: Selected Wenge
• Tuners: Wittner® Finetune Precision Pegs
• Finish: Matte

Notes: 

- All our instruments are serviced before we allow them to leave!!
- A new set of strings if needed.
- String height, truss rod, and intonation adjusted if needed.
- Polished frets and Oiled fingerboard (If applicable).
- Electronics checked and serviced.
- A final polish of the instrument before shipping.
- This instrument is on display in our shop so if you are close by pop in to give it a go.
- Due to their artisanal craftsmanship, may have differences compared to the photograph displayed on the website, especially in terms of decoration.