This is one of the nicest student Violas that we’ve ever seen. Nationally recognized as a superb builder, and often requested by string teachers, Scott Cao instruments have won a number of prestigious awards including tying for first place in 2013 at the Mondo Musica in NYC where he was up against 10 other top US luthiers and three actual Stradivarius in a double-blind competition. Do not let the student moniker fool you. You will have to look hard for a viola that will play and sound as good under $1000. The outfit comes with Brazilwood bow and beautiful oblong case.