3/4 Violin “HOPF”

The name “Hopf” is inseparably linked with the development of violin making in the Vogtland. The founder of the Hopf dynasty, Caspar David Hopf, moved to what is now Klingenthal around 1650. In the following centuries, the name Hopf – and its instruments beyond – advanced to become one of the most prominent violin making companies in Germany. Characteristic features are the very bulky, angular shape with a strong top and slight back arching, as well as the delicately engraved scroll with a narrow pegbox. Many sellers of the time applied the branding themselves, so it is not clear whether this is an instrument from the Hopf family workshops.

This 3/4 violin reveals a warm, sweet tone. Across the registers it is very well balanced and pleasing to the ear. Students switching to the 3/4 size will find it a grateful instrument, while at the same time challenging their skills to bring the violin’s sound to bear.