Violinmakers in Cremona: the Epicenter of Violin Making
Cremona, a charming town in Lombardy, northern Italy, bears the title "The capital of violin makers". Some of the most famous violin makers in history, such as Antonio Stradivari, Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù and Nicola Amati, have left their mark here. It all began with the violin maker Andrea Amati, who set the first standards of the Cremonese style of string instruments, 450 years ago. His violins and violas combined great sound quality with beautiful craftsmanship.
The Amati family’s workshop continued to thrive. About one hundred years later, after overcoming some hard times, the family hit a peak under the leadership of Nicola Amati. Under his roof it is said, world-famous Antonio Stradivari made over 1000 instruments, including some of the most sought-after violins today. Stradivari’s instruments are said to be the epitome of sound and graceful design. Working together with these renowned violin makers, was a third master of his craft: Andrea Guarneri. His instruments were of exquisite sound and elegance, often emulating the Amati style, but giving it his own twist. As founder of the Guarneri family Andrea established a great tradition of violin makers.
The city of Cremona is a Mecca for lovers of high-quality violins, violas, cellos and bows. These Cremonese craftsmen are counted highly among the 150 renowned Italian violin makers working in Cremona today:
These talented Cremona violinmakers contribute as craftsmen to the rich tradition of violin making in the city and continue the legacy of the famous masters.