The Dissonances
A professional violin for smaller hands
A professional violin for smaller hands
For five centuries violins were made exclusively with white men in mind. The Dissonances model is our response to the fact that music has become more diverse and, in some fields, even predominantly female.
Dissonances Violin geometry study showing recalibrated proportions for shorter vibrating string length.
Not a student-sized compromise
The Dissonances model is for professional musicians who need a shorter vibrating string length without surrendering tonal presence, authority, or seriousness.
Harmony-first design study for The Dissonances Violin, developed around proportion, balance, and the player’s body.
The violin should not force the body into obedience
Many musicians know the problem well: the standard violin may feel in small hands like a viola in average, large hands. Your body — and potentially the longevity of your career — does not have to be a victim of that gap.
Full presence, smaller hands
The Dissonances Violin is intended for professional musicians who need comfort without musical reduction. It is designed to feel physically manageable while remaining responsive, present, and serious in performance.
“How can a new instrument be predictable before it is finished?”
A commission is not guesswork. Before measurements are fixed, Badiarov studies the musician’s repertoire, physical needs, intended sound, setup, pitch, and practical performance context.
This is the role of his harmony-first method: musical relationships are translated into proportion, geometry, response, and voice, so the instrument is shaped with clear musical and physical purpose.
The method has informed repeated commissions for professional musicians including Sigiswald Kuijken, Sergey Malov, and Ryo Terakado.
Witnesses
“I looked for a long time for a violin that truly fit me. The result is an instrument that fits my hand, my music, and my life.”
Laura Fierro
Baroque Violinist, Chamber Musician, Visual Artist
“Despite its size, the sound is full and powerful — truly comparable to a standard instrument, without the physical struggle.”
Chiharu Shimano
Baroque Violinist, Chamber Musician
“It feels like it grows with me. Constant, alive, and deeply personal.”
Claire de Prekel
Violinist & Music Manager
Commissioning the Dissonances Violin
Each Dissonances Violin is made to commission by violin maker Dmitry Badiarov for a specific musician, repertoire, setup, pitch, and physical relationship with the instrument.
Workshop and bespoke versions are available. Investment depends on the model, materials, setup, and artistic requirements.
Commissioning begins with a private conversation.
Made individually for professional use.