FEATURES
- Hand-Carved Solid Spruce Top – Produces a warm, responsive tone with good projection
- Maple Back and Sides – Often flamed maple, contributing to tonal clarity, structural stability, and visual appeal
- Ebony Fittings – Includes ebony fingerboard, pegs, and chinrest for durability, smooth playability, and tuning stability
- Student-Friendly Tailpiece – Metal tailpiece typically fitted with integrated fine tuners to assist developing players with accurate tuning
- Traditional Spirit Varnish Finish – Polished or hand-rubbed varnish in a natural or lightly antiqued style, allowing the instrument to resonate freely
- Consistent Craftsmanship – Built to uniform standards across the Model 400 line, ensuring predictable quality and performance
*Includes case, bow, & rosin
DESCRIPTION
The Franz Sandner Model 400 15” Viola is a well-regarded instrument designed for beginning and intermediate-level violists seeking reliable playability and a refined tonal character. Crafted in the German tradition, the Model 400 series reflects Sandner’s reputation for producing durable, musically responsive student instruments suitable for both instructional and ensemble settings.
Although specific production records for serial number 1311XX are not publicly cataloged, the Model 400 line is widely recognized for its warm, resonant sound and balanced response across registers. Retailers and educators consistently recommend this model for advancing students who require an instrument that supports technical development without sacrificing tonal depth.
The viola’s construction emphasizes ease of play, allowing students to focus on posture, bow control, and intonation rather than compensating for instrument limitations. As a result, the Franz Sandner Model 400 remains a common choice for school orchestra programs, private studios, and advancing ensemble players.
Our featured instrument was constructed approximately ten to fifteen years ago in Germany and imported in the United States where it was set-up (most-likely) by Knilling Fine Instruments. There are a few nicks on the rims of the instrument, but no pings, dings or cracks. On the fingerboard is residue from finger-tape used by the previous owner. Our In-House Technician has adjusted the Viola for General Playing Conditions.
The package includes the Original Polyfoam Case, Rosin and a brand new 15” Viola Bow (not rosined). If you or a loved one is ready for this size instrument, the Sandner Viola is a great choice at an affordable price.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Model: Franz Sandner Model 400
- Instrument Type: Viola
- Country of Origin: Germany (German-style craftsmanship)
- Top: Hand-carved solid spruce
- Back & Sides: Maple, frequently flamed
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Ebon
- Pegs: Ebony
- Chinrest: Ebony
- Tailpiece: Metal tailpiece with fine tuners (student configuration)
- Finish: Polished or hand-rubbed spirit varnish
- Tone Character: Warm, rich, and resonant
- Intended Player Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Primary Use: Orchestra, ensemble, and instructional study
*Includes case, bow, & rosinModel# Model 40015
