Finally the cello was finished and strung, and the moment of truth arrived. No matter how well made, an instrument must perform, and David needs to perform in the most demanding situations. We had kept this project secret. David took his new mystery cello to rehearsals and concerts. The response to the new cello has been strong and enthusiastic, and the instrument soon became David's principal cello for quartets, solos, and recording.
People start to listen because it looks like a Strad, but they stay because it delivers the sound.
As the new instrument continues to develop we have experimented with adjustments, bridges and strings to discover the full capabilities of this cello.