Jaime Gabriel González 15 1/2" viola, Boston, 2026 | Metzler Violins

The measurements of the viola are as follows:
Length: 393mm (15 1/2")
Upper bouts: 187mm
C’ bouts: 122mm
Lower bouts: 230mm

Jaime Gabriel González's journey as a luthier is a testament to passion and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Graduating with honors from the Escuela de Laudería in Querétaro, Mexico, Jaime swiftly opened his own workshop in Guadalajara, where he began to truly hone his unique craft. A pivotal moment came in 2017 when he delved into an "Antique Varnish and Retouch" class with master luthier Pablo Alfaro. This experience sparked a new level of ambition, leading him to prestigious events across the United States, often sponsored by esteemed organizations like the Violin Society of America and Oberlin Restoration Workshops.

Witnessing the pinnacle of violin making firsthand ignited a profound desire in Jaime to really push his own artistry. This drive ultimately led him to the United States, where he relocated in 2020, starting his U.S. journey by working at a rental shop in Houston. This hands on experience in a busy environment provided a unique foundation before he joined the distinguished workshop at Carriage House Violins in 2022, immersing himself in instrument restoration.

Jaime's exceptional talent has been consistently recognized on the competition stage. In 2023, he swept the Violin Makers Association of Arizona International Competition, earning gold medals for both viola and violin workmanship and the coveted Bill Barnitz Award. His accolades also include a gold medal for violin workmanship at the 2019 Southern Violin Association Competition, an achievement that led to an invitation to judge the 2021 event. Adding to his impressive record, 2025 saw him awarded gold medals for both violin and viola workmanship, a Certificate for Tone for his violin, and a Silver Medal for viola tone. Notably, he also achieved Hors Concours at the 2025 Southern Violin Association (SVA) Competition, a recognition that has led to an invitation to judge the prestigious 2027 biennial competition. Jaime also collaborated with Pablo Alfaro on a quartet entered into the 2022 Violin Society of America competition.