What it means to be a Luthier in Cremona
Back to BlogWhat it means to be a Luthier in Cremona?
A luthier is a craftsman who builds and repairs string instruments, following a tradition that has been carried on for centuries. Violin makers, especially those in Cremona, are celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship and profound understanding of acoustics, which enable them to bring out the unique voice in each instrument.
Cremonese Violin Making
The art of Cremonese violin making has a deep-rooted history, its origins trace back to the 16th century. Cremona is renowned as the birthplace of master luthiers like Andrea Amati, Antonio Stradivari, and Guarneri del Gesù. These legendary Cremonese luthiers established what is known as the great tradition of Cremonese violin making, a cultural heritage that continues to influence violin makers in Cremona and around the world. According to Cremonese tradition, the selection of the finest woods, the precise crafting techniques, and the attention to even the smallest details are essential in creating instruments that not only look beautiful but also produce an unparalleled sound.
Luiz’s craftsmanship
At our workshop our Master Maker, Luiz Amorim, crafts custom instruments that can meet the most discerning needs, and he can make copies that pay homage to the masterpieces of Antonio Stradivari, Guarneri del Gesù, and other great makers of the violin-making tradition.
Luiz Amorim has devoted his craftsmanship to create instruments that reflect the superior quality and sound characteristics of these iconic instruments. His work is a testament to the enduring influence of Cremonese violin making, and each instrument crafted in his workshop is a piece of art, steeped in tradition and crafted with modern precision.
Every instrument is crafted by Luiz with commitment to quality. The process begins with the careful selection of the finest materials, according to tradition, and extends to the intricate handwork that characterizes the great tradition of Cremonese luthiers. Luiz Amorim’s deep respect for the identity of each fine instruments is evident in each copy that leaves his workshop, which can be described as an exact replica of the work of the great makers Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesù.
Our Master Luthier thoughtfully crafts each instrument to the specific needs and preferences of its future owner. Whether you’re seeking a new creation that reflects your personal style or a precise reproduction of a Stradivari or Guarneri masterpiece, Luiz collaborates closely with you to create an instrument that not only meets your exacting standards but also resonates with your artistic vision. Every piece is crafted with deep respect for the Cremonese violin-making tradition, ensuring it embodies both quality and heritage.
Beyond Craftsmanship
Besides crafting new instruments, our workshop also offers meticulous restoration services. We approach each restoration with a profound respect for the original craftsmanship, carefully preserving the historical integrity of every instrument while enhancing its playability and sound quality. Our restoration work ensures that the legacy of the master luthiers lives on through the instruments we restore, allowing them to continue inspiring musicians for generations to come.
We also recognize that even the finest instruments occasionally need adjustments to perform at their best. We can take care of your instrument with the utmost attention, through soundpost setting, bridge adjustments, and other fine-tuning techniques, all performed with the same care and precision that go into crafting a new instrument. These adjustments help your instrument achieve its full potential, ensuring it continues to serve your musical journey.
The Amorim Family
At Amorim Fine Violins, we also maintain a carefully curated collection of fine and modern instruments from renowned makers. This collection offers musicians the opportunity to explore different tonal qualities, helping them find an instrument that truly resonates with their artistic needs. Whether you are in search of a new instrument or looking to explore the characteristics of a fine or modern piece, our collection serves as a valuable resource in your musical journey.
Whether crafting, restoring, or fine-tuning, our work is dedicated to supporting musicians in creating music that moves the world and crafting top-quality instruments according to Cremonese violin making tradition.
If you are a professional musician looking for a custom-made violin, an amateur in search of the perfect instrument, or a collector seeking to restore a historical piece, Amorim Fine Violins is here to support you in your musical journey. We invite you to visit our workshop in Cremona and experience the passion and dedication that goes into every instrument we create, continuing the great tradition of Cremonese Luthiers, who still today are revered for their ability to craft top-quality instruments with devotion and care.
The Workshop
Amorim Fine Violins is a violin, viola, and cello workshop based in Cremona. Our mission is to provide musicians with instruments so they can uniquely express themselves. We are a family business, just like the workshops of Stradivari and Guarneri. Founded in 2001 by the renowned violin maker Luiz Amorim and his wife, Betina Schreiner. We bring our fine arts experience into the violin-making field. .
