RS Williams, Canada, 1911 (FR013)
RS Williams Canada, 1911 (FR013)
Included with purchase of the RS Williams cello is a copy of this wonderful;l book by Ladislav Cselenyi-Granch on the history of the RS Williams company.
This wonderful cello was made by the RS Williams Company of Ontario, Canada in 1911. It bears their label and the stock number 850 - Artist Series. The RS Williams Company started as a piano making company by Richard Sugden Williams in 1834. Their pianos were of very high quality leading to two being placed in Windsor Castle at the request of Queen Victoria, thus entitling the company to use the warrant 'Piano Makers to the Queen.' The company eventually started manufacturing and importing other instruments and went on to become Canada’s largest music instrument manufacturer. They finally went out of business in 1952. RS Williams was an iconic Canadian company, producing and supplying top quality musical instruments. Both Richard Sugden and his son were avid collectors of antique instruments and there is a collection of their acquisitions at the Royal Ontario Museum.
This cello is in good condition, but with a number of repairs consistent with its age. These include cracks to the ribs and table, non being in important sound affecting areas. It has been professionally setup with a new bridge, sound post, a carbon fiber endpin and fitted with new Kaplan D’Addario strings. It is a wonderful deep reddish auburn in color.
It is light, easy to play, responsive and exhibits an attractive aged warm tone with plenty of power at the high end. The length of back is 755mm.
High resolution photos can be sent on request.