Otto Erdesz

John Dilworth

ERDESZ, Otto Born 1917 Bratislava Hungary, d.2000 Toronto Canada Moved to Budapest in 1927 and studied as an artist at the Academia of Fine Arts. Active violin maker from 1941. Self taught, guided by Max Frirsz. Emigrated to New York in 1956 following the Russian invasion of Hungary. Initially established a textile design business, having left his own instrument collection in Budapest. Returned to violin making in 1963, selling his work through Wurlitzer in New York and Moennig in Philadelphia. Worked in Israel 1973-1974, Toronto 1974-1983, and Fort Lee, New Jersey from 1983, although he moved freely between Toronto and New Jersey in his final years. Early work on various classical models, but later adopted a Guarneri pattern. Introduced a new viola design in 1977, with the upper treble bout cut away to allow easier access to the upper positions. Spirit varnish in shaded antique finish. Instruments made in the USA utilise local timber. About 2,000 violins and 1,359 violas completed. [Wenberg]