I bought this as a beginners' instrument, along with the Gewa student carbon bow and the Gewa pure case. I am only a beginner so I cannot provide an expert opinion. The viola has overall fulfilled my expectations. Please note that the viola will be delivered with the bridge and strings off. So you will need to be confident enough to position the bridge and fit the strings. Because of this the tuning will take some days to settle, as the viola will have been without the tension provided by the strings. Please also note the viola does not come with a chin rest fitted, so you will need to purchase this separately. I was pleasantly surprised to find it came with Larsen strings, and not the Dominant ones indicated. I think these are better quality, so I am happy with the change.