Portrait
Gonzalo Bayolo is a Spanish luthier based in Santiago de Compostela, and one of the finest makers of his generation. He brings a deep knowledge of the science and history of the trade to the bench, and the results have an unmistakable character of their own.
He works most often from Guarneri del Gesu, including the 1737 "King Joseph", and from Stradivari, and his antiquing is expert. A violin of his took an honourable mention at the Cremona Triennale for its resonant, even sound across all registers. He also works widely as a restorer, holding a Hans Weishaar certificate.
His instruments are played by orchestral leaders, by players in major orchestras and by knowledgeable collectors, principally in the United Kingdom.
Bayolo is one of our favourite makers and consistently produces some of the finest contemporary violins we see. The sound is complete: balanced, even and focused throughout, with the power and projection of a soloist's instrument and none of the depth or warmth sacrificed to get there. On the King Joseph models the E string has outstanding brilliance without losing sweetness, the G is rich and full, and the middle strings are resonant enough that a player can use the whole range. There are no weak points. His prices are rising along with his reputation, which makes his work an unusually good long-term acquisition.
Elsewhere
Compare instruments against each other, and against an antique, in a blind test with studio audio. No labels until you have chosen.
Where are Gonzalo Bayolo instruments made?
In Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Every instrument is then set up and checked in our own London workshop before it reaches a player.
How much does a Gonzalo Bayolo instrument cost?
Instruments by Gonzalo Bayolo currently start at around £20,000. Price varies with model, wood and whether the instrument is antiqued. We can give you an exact figure for anything currently in the showroom.
.avif)
.avif)
