Research Project on Different Original da spalla Instruments
While researching in various museums, we came across instruments definitely meant for da spalla playing, but different from the usual Violoncello da Spalla of today, which is inspired by Hoffmann. Our dream is to study and make them and hear them played in the contexts to which they originally belonged.
If you are also interested into the musical context of the 18th century, which saw the flourishing of the Violoncello da Spalla, get in touch with us to discuss a unique project of research and revival of a special small da spalla bass.


Leopold Mozart
Versuch einer gründlichen Violinschule
Augsburg, 1756
Wagner Borstendorf Project 2020/21
Thanks to the support of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Department of Italian Culture, in 2021 we were able to make this instrument: considered the only five-string cello that has reached us in its original condition, it is noteworthy not only for its small size and the many signs of wear, but also for its very short and absolutely original neck!
We demonstrated this instrument in a video made by Lorenzo Vignando, with the collaboration of Stephan Kofler and Giulia Bolcato.

Research

Making

Comparing the copy
with the original
Price List
This is a custom project that needs to be fully discussed, a shared dream that obviously needs to be financially sustainable. How?
LET'S DISCUSS IT TOGETHER.
Goldberg 1742

J. Goldberg 1742: An instrument of small dimensions, with a carved back and wear marks exclusively from being played horizontally, da spalla. Its charm also lies in its maker, the father of the famous friend of Bach, to whom the *Variations* were dedicated
J. G. Hammig 1747

J. G. Hammig 1747: A very small five-string "bass" with a shape similar to that of a viol. It has a bent flat back but standard f-holes. The wear marks are very noticeable and only compatible with a shoulder-held position.


