Moses Sedler

Giuseppe Sgarbi (1818–1905), known by the nickname “Jarino,” was an Italian violin maker active in Finale Emilia, Modena, and later Rome. Though trained within the general traditions of the Emilia-Romagna region, Sgarbi followed an independent path, producing instruments that reflected both imagination and individuality rather than strict adherence to classical models. His career spanned the …

Giuseppe Sgarbi (1818–1905): An Independent Voice in 19th-Century Italian Violin Making Read More »

Stefano Scarampella was one of the most influential Italian violin makers of the early 20th century, widely regarded for his bold, expressive style and strong connection to the Mantuan tradition. Born in Brescia in 1843, Scarampella came from a family rooted in woodworking and musical craftsmanship. His older brother, Giuseppe Scarampella, was already an accomplished …

Stefano Scarampella (1843–1925): A Central Figure in Mantua’s Violin Making Revival Read More »

Joseph Grubaugh and Sigrun Seifert are widely regarded as one of the finest violin making teams working today. Partners in both craft and life, this husband-and-wife duo has been collaborating in the art of violin making for over forty years, earning international acclaim for their instruments’ exceptional tone, refined craftsmanship, and elegant aesthetic. Their instruments …

Joseph Grubaugh and Sigrun Seifert – Violin Makers Read More »

Marino Capicchioni was an Italian luthier known for his craftsmanship and innovative approach to violin making. Born in Santa Mustiola, in the Republic of San Marino, Capicchioni was the second of seven children to Virginia Cecchetti and Bernardo Capicchioni, a carpenter. He grew up in a woodworking environment, assisting his father, and later became interested …

Marino Capicchioni (1895–1977): A Master Violin Maker of Rimini Read More »

Ferdinando Garimberti was a renowned Italian luthier recognized for his exceptional craftsmanship and significant contributions to 20th-century violin making. Born on January 6, 1894, in Mamiano di Traversetolo, Parma, he moved with his family to Milan in 1902. Initially working as a carpenter and blacksmith, he developed an interest in violin making around 1910, after …

Ferdinando Garimberti (1894–1982): A Master of the Milanese Violin Making Tradition Read More »

Giuseppe Castagnino was an Italian luthier recognized for his distinctive craftsmanship and significant contributions to the Genoese school of violin making in the early to mid-20th century. Born in Chiavari in 1883, he was introduced to woodworking through his father, a carpenter and cooper who also crafted musical instruments as a hobby. This early exposure …

Giuseppe Castagnino (1883–1966): A Master of the Genoa Violin Making Tradition Read More »