---
product_id: 1089057
title: "16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish)"
brand: "cecilio"
price: "£114.00"
currency: GBP
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 13
category: "Mendini By Cecilio"
url: https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/1089057-16-inch-solid-wood-viola-set-for-beginners-hand-carved
store_origin: GB
region: United Kingdom
---

# Hand-carved solid spruce top for rich tone Lightweight hard case with backpack strap 16-inch professional-grade viola size 16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish)

**Brand:** cecilio
**Price:** £114.00
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Elevate your sound, own the spotlight with Mendini’s 16" viola!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** 16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) by cecilio
- **How much does it cost?** £114.00 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.uk](https://www.desertcart.co.uk/products/1089057-16-inch-solid-wood-viola-set-for-beginners-hand-carved)

## Best For

- cecilio enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted cecilio brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Complete Starter Kit:** Includes Brazilwood bow, rosin, bridge, and a sleek, lightweight hard case with backpack straps for on-the-go musicians.
- • **Comfort Meets Durability:** Maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest designed for long practice sessions without fatigue.
- • **Concert-Ready Craftsmanship:** Hand-carved spruce top and maple body deliver rich, warm tones that command the stage.
- • **Effortless Tuning Precision:** Alloy tailpiece with integrated fine tuners ensures flawless intonation every time.
- • **Trusted by Teachers & Beginners:** Teacher-approved design with a 1-year warranty, perfect for students stepping into the world of viola.

## Overview

The Mendini 16-inch viola is a professional-grade instrument crafted from hand-carved solid spruce and figured maple, delivering rich, warm tones ideal for students and performers alike. Equipped with a maple fingerboard and alloy tailpiece featuring four fine tuners, it offers smooth playability and precise tuning. This complete kit includes a Brazilwood bow, rosin, bridge, and a lightweight hard case with backpack straps, making it perfect for beginners ready to make their mark in orchestras or solo performances.

## Description

The Mendini violas are teacher approved. This viola features a hand-carved solid spruce top, maple back and sides. Equip with rosewood pegs, chin rest, and fingerboard, and an alloy tailpiece with 4 built-in fine tuners. Package includes a lightweight form fitting hard case with pockets and backpack strap, making it convenient to carry to school or orchestra. Also the following accessories are included making this viola package great for starters: Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair, rosin, bridge, and an extra set of viola strings.

Review: Thrilled! Fully intact, and sounds Gorgeous! - Okay, this is a little premature, I got it today and haven't tuned it or brought it to my teacher for her to break it over my head, and I'm a total newbie, never played strings before besides guitar and... keyboard. No chance I could ever afford an "approved" one. The price is obviously unbelievable. However the case is hard and felted, and the construction is beautiful of wood, with plastic parts (neck guard). It's *very* lightweight. When I first saw it I thought it was too small to make Viola-bassey sounds and wondered if they sent me a violin by mistake. But I'm writing about the immediate construction and first *sound*, timber, functionality (playability) of the instrument. I somehow managed to rosin my first bow adequately (my orchestral roommate tightened it when he came home because I forgot to). I had watched YouTube videos and read the scant instructions which tell you to wait and let your instructor guide you in your first setup. I held it (I'll definitely need a shoulder brace), and tried the lowest open string... my eyes opened wide. I had never produced a tone on a concert stringed instrument before. It was BEAUTIFUL. And totally bassey. Sounded exactly as it should (correct tuned pitch aside). I was actually amazed. I played all the strings open one at a time, likewise. Absolutely lovely instrument with a beautiful and fully resonate, bassey sound. Just like the YouTube videos. I tried some fingerings; okay, that'll take practice and a developed reach. But clearly it would play. If there's a problem of tuning, not holding pitch or cracking, I'll update my review. But I wouldn't hesitate to purchase this instrument if you're worried if it sounds good enough, esp. for the price. I hope my instructor doesn't break it over my head, I love it and will be sad. My first 4/4 cello by the same maker and store is on the way! :) My seller feedback: Thrilled! Arrived early, unbroken, with hardcase and all accessories, and... plays! First time ever player, sounds wonderful! :) :) Thank you! Update: Ok it's two hours before my first lesson. Tried to tune, string broke and the tuners generally won't hold. I should have had it set up before lesson day. I'm going to see if she knows a trick with rosin or such to make tuners stick. Otherwise I'll have to wait for a setup and it'll set my lesson back and may make it unaffordable depending. I'm not in the market for a more expensive instrument at this time. The sound of the box is still terrific and bow and rosin work fine. 4 stars and we'll see. Update Update: My teacher took it walked around awhile while I was getting ready and handing it back to me said, "Why did you think it couldn't be tuned?!" :) I also got a shoulder rest and two packs of DiDarios. So back to Fine Instrument! :) but follow instructions and let your instructor do the setup the first time. You'll save a string. She understood it was inexpensive, knew the price, but had no problem working with it and is starting me on the Suzuki method :) I thought the tuners absolutely wouldn't hold, so see a pro before giving up!
Review: Good for Beginners - I wish I could put 4.5 stars as I don't want to give the impression that this is a perfect instrumment, but it is quite nice for a $100 piece. The first one I ordered had a warped and cracked fingerboard and had to be sent back, but the second arrived in good shape. I've only had it for a day and I am by no means a good string player, but this viola seems to keep itself in tune fairly well and it also has decent tone. The fine tuners are not great, but function just fine. The case is almost as good as the case my fairly nice violin came with. I've heard in other reviews that the strings are poor and should be replaced quickly, but they aren't terrible and if you're a beginner like me, they'll do for awhile. I had to score the rosin with a pocket knife before it would apply to the bow, which I'm given to understand is common, but not ideal (still, it worked). This brings me to the bow. The bow is very poor. Both violas I recieved came with warped bows and I can tell a big difference when I play with my violin's bow. In short, this is a good instrumment with some fixable shortcomings. The construction and tone are good, and I'm very happy with this purchase.

## Features

- 16 In Viola: Perfect for students & professionals, this viola delivers rich, warm tones. The sleek finish pairs elegance with durability, making it ideal for performances or practice.The viola -inspired design ensures ease of use while maintaining the rich, resonant sound expected from a professional-grade viola
- Premium Materials for Excellent Tone: Hand-carved from solid spruce for the top and paired with beautifully figured maple for the back and sides, this 16 inch viola set delivers exceptional clarity and warmth. Each component is selected to enhance acoustics, ensuring every note played resonates with precision
- Smooth Playability: Equipped with a maple fingerboard, pegs, and chin rest, this viola prioritizes player comfort during long practice sessions. The alloy tailpiece features four integrated fine tuners, allowing for effortless tuning adjustments and superior intonation control, great for fiddle or classical styles
- Complete Viola Kit: Includes a lightweight hard case protects your instrument when traveling; a Brazilwood bow provides smooth, responsive strokes; plus, you'll receive a high-quality rosin bar and bridge. Everything you need to play your viola right away
- Concert-Ready Sound: A perfect gift for beginner who love viola! Whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage, this viola kit is designed to meet diverse musical needs. Elevate your music journey today with Mendini viola. Please note the bridge will not be installed to avoid damage during shipping. Tuning pegs must be handled with care and pushed in when tuning

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B006LCCUTU |
| Back Material Type | Maple, Spruce Wood, Wood |
| Best Sellers Rank | #4,390 in Musical Instruments ( See Top 100 in Musical Instruments ) #1 in Acoustic Violas |
| Body Material Type | Maple, Spruce |
| Brand | Mendini by Cecilio |
| Brand Name | Mendini by Cecilio |
| Color | Natural Varnish |
| Customer Reviews | 4.0 out of 5 stars 1,801 Reviews |
| Finish Type | Varnish |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00847848011405 |
| Hand Orientation | Right Handed |
| Included Components | with case |
| Instrument | Viola |
| Instrument Size | 16-in. |
| Item Dimensions | 35 x 7 x 15 inches |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 35 x 7 x 15 inches |
| Manufacturer | Cecilio Musical Instruments |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 16"MA250 |
| Material Type | Spruce, Maple |
| Model Name | 16"MA250 |
| Model Number | 16"MA250 |
| Number of Strings | 4 |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Set Name | 16-Inch Viola Set (5 Piece) |
| Size | 16-in. |
| Sound Profile | Warm and Balanced |
| String Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Top Material Type | Maple, Spruce |
| UPC | 847848011405 |
| Warranty Description | 1 year warranty against manufacturer's defects. |

## Product Details

- **Back Material Type:** Maple, Spruce Wood, Wood
- **Brand:** Mendini by Cecilio
- **Color:** Natural Varnish
- **Finish Type:** Varnish
- **Instrument:** Viola
- **Item dimensions L x W x H:** 35 x 7 x 15 inches
- **Operation Mode:** Manual
- **Size:** 16-in.
- **String Material Type:** Alloy Steel
- **Top Material Type:** Maple, Spruce

## Images

![16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Pv9oh6ZfL.jpg)
![16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Jl17ICcmL.jpg)
![16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81fQoawFqLL.jpg)
![16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51KyUwwfsvL.jpg)
![16-Inch Solid Wood Viola Set for Beginners - Hand Carved Acoustic Viola Kit with Hard Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Strings (Natural Varnish) - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81SxRXS24bL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Color, Size** options.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thrilled! Fully intact, and sounds Gorgeous!
*by S***A on September 17, 2017*

Okay, this is a little premature, I got it today and haven't tuned it or brought it to my teacher for her to break it over my head, and I'm a total newbie, never played strings before besides guitar and... keyboard. No chance I could ever afford an "approved" one. The price is obviously unbelievable. However the case is hard and felted, and the construction is beautiful of wood, with plastic parts (neck guard). It's *very* lightweight. When I first saw it I thought it was too small to make Viola-bassey sounds and wondered if they sent me a violin by mistake. But I'm writing about the immediate construction and first *sound*, timber, functionality (playability) of the instrument. I somehow managed to rosin my first bow adequately (my orchestral roommate tightened it when he came home because I forgot to). I had watched YouTube videos and read the scant instructions which tell you to wait and let your instructor guide you in your first setup. I held it (I'll definitely need a shoulder brace), and tried the lowest open string... my eyes opened wide. I had never produced a tone on a concert stringed instrument before. It was BEAUTIFUL. And totally bassey. Sounded exactly as it should (correct tuned pitch aside). I was actually amazed. I played all the strings open one at a time, likewise. Absolutely lovely instrument with a beautiful and fully resonate, bassey sound. Just like the YouTube videos. I tried some fingerings; okay, that'll take practice and a developed reach. But clearly it would play. If there's a problem of tuning, not holding pitch or cracking, I'll update my review. But I wouldn't hesitate to purchase this instrument if you're worried if it sounds good enough, esp. for the price. I hope my instructor doesn't break it over my head, I love it and will be sad. My first 4/4 cello by the same maker and store is on the way! :) My seller feedback: Thrilled! Arrived early, unbroken, with hardcase and all accessories, and... plays! First time ever player, sounds wonderful! :) :) Thank you! Update: Ok it's two hours before my first lesson. Tried to tune, string broke and the tuners generally won't hold. I should have had it set up before lesson day. I'm going to see if she knows a trick with rosin or such to make tuners stick. Otherwise I'll have to wait for a setup and it'll set my lesson back and may make it unaffordable depending. I'm not in the market for a more expensive instrument at this time. The sound of the box is still terrific and bow and rosin work fine. 4 stars and we'll see. Update Update: My teacher took it walked around awhile while I was getting ready and handing it back to me said, "Why did you think it couldn't be tuned?!" :) I also got a shoulder rest and two packs of DiDarios. So back to Fine Instrument! :) but follow instructions and let your instructor do the setup the first time. You'll save a string. She understood it was inexpensive, knew the price, but had no problem working with it and is starting me on the Suzuki method :) I thought the tuners absolutely wouldn't hold, so see a pro before giving up!

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good for Beginners
*by A***R on February 25, 2025*

I wish I could put 4.5 stars as I don't want to give the impression that this is a perfect instrumment, but it is quite nice for a $100 piece. The first one I ordered had a warped and cracked fingerboard and had to be sent back, but the second arrived in good shape. I've only had it for a day and I am by no means a good string player, but this viola seems to keep itself in tune fairly well and it also has decent tone. The fine tuners are not great, but function just fine. The case is almost as good as the case my fairly nice violin came with. I've heard in other reviews that the strings are poor and should be replaced quickly, but they aren't terrible and if you're a beginner like me, they'll do for awhile. I had to score the rosin with a pocket knife before it would apply to the bow, which I'm given to understand is common, but not ideal (still, it worked). This brings me to the bow. The bow is very poor. Both violas I recieved came with warped bows and I can tell a big difference when I play with my violin's bow. In short, this is a good instrumment with some fixable shortcomings. The construction and tone are good, and I'm very happy with this purchase.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Better than expected, mostly.
*by C***R on August 23, 2023*

The instrument itself is lovely and stays in tune surprisingly well. I’m an adult beginner on viola and was expecting a much less quality instrument, like the dreaded “orange” beginner stringed instruments you see. But the finish is lovely, the sound is pleasing (I have auditory issues with loud screechy sounds), and it’s surprisingly easy to play with the factory strings. The case is what you’d expect on a budget instrument, but it’s not too shabby. My small gripe: there is a number marking on the fingerboard, I’m assuming a QC or inventory mark. A little spit and rubbing didn’t take it off. Hopefully it’s pencil and I can erase it. My big gripe: the bow is absolutely horrible. The hair was strung so unevenly that even taught, there are VERY loose strands. The curve is so shallow that when loose the stick is still almost straight. There are a number of other issues with it that are even hard to put into words. When tightened to the point I’m worried it might break if I go tighter, the hairs still almost contact the stick when bowing. And as for it holding rosin, the cake it came with doesn’t have a flat surface, so it you really have to work that much harder until it either wears down or you resurface the rosin yourself, then you can play maybe 5-10 minutes before you notice the hair losing grip on the strings. It might just be me being new to strings, or this bow is really as bad is it seems. So overall, the instrument itself is well worth the price but get a better bow and maybe some better rosin.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Mendini by Cecilio 16-Inch MA250 Varnish Solid Wood Viola with Case, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Strings
- Essential Elements for Strings Viola - Book 1 with EEi Book/Online Audio
- Comfort Adjustable Viola Shoulder Rest, up to 15" - 16.5"

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*Product available on Desertcart United Kingdom*
*Store origin: GB*
*Last updated: 2026-05-27*