Despite starting playing at the tender age of 2, and being a violist is a bedrock of my identity, I haven't been able to play in years. This is partially due to the amount of physical pain and it being a migraine trigger even on my very body-friendly viola (15.75 inches and very light). Prior to the onset of chronic migraine, my beloved viola was destroyed in an horrific housefire. Whilst it was able to be reconstructed by an expert, it has never been the same, and no longer suitable for high level playing.

I played the viola photographed for 3hrs without any pain or migraine attack or anything, just a slightly bruised jaw bone today as it wasn't set up for me - something that is easily remedied. It is literally and physically perfect for me. Within moments of the Unicorn Viola being under my chin I felt like I had finally found my home. Unfortunately, the price is prohibitively steep as a student who has been unable to work for years due to chronic migraines, I simply can't afford it. I miss playing so much. For me, music is life affirming, it gives me hope.

Multiple doctors (including 2 different brain and nervous system specialists) have prescribed playing as a way to improve my mental health and to help heal my nervous system - but only if it doesn't trigger migraine attacks. This viola has become known as The Unicorn Viola. I just want to feel like myself again and be able to once again contribute to my beloved music community, and the broader community at large.

Before I got sick, I played with indie rock bands at well loved establishments such as The Triffid, in musical theatre, as well as more traditional instrumental music groups including but not limited to: the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra, the Queensland Philharmonia Orchestra, the Amadeus Orchestra, and the Christ Church Festival Orchestra (in Oxford, UK). I was principal viola in the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra. The monetary price is an absolute bargain for an instrument of this quality, and for a return to myself.