Violin Maker
Mario Gadda
Italy, Mantua
Born in Mantua in 1931, Mario Gadda started his studies in violin making with his father Gaetano Gadda at the age of 16.Known worldwide he made around 500 instruments to players and orchestras.Read more
Short Bio
Full Name: Mario Gadda
Highlights
New making style: New
Credentials
Master Maker
Apprentice of Gaetano Gadda
Acknowledge Maker Worldwide
Mastercraftsman
Mantua's Traditional Handcraftsmanship
Locally making
Italy, Mantua
Maker Background
Son of the illustrious master maker Gaetano Gadda, Mario was born in Mantua in 1931 and was introduced to the luthier's world by his father, who started training him when he achieved the age of 16.He had a very important role in carrying the Mantuan tradition of violin making into the 21st century. One big inspiration for him was Tommaso Balestrieri and his father’s teacher Stefano Scarampella. Some other luthiers from the Mantua style also influenced his instruments.
Mario quickly became known worldwide as a luthier, by selling his instruments to musicians and orchestras over Europe, Asia, and America. Gadda's craftsmanship improved over the years and during World War II his violins were considered to be among the best of their time. His work is characterized by deeply flamed maple and oppio, most of the time two-piece back.
He completed his instruments with a shiny and beautiful varnish. Gadda also exhibited his work at many competitions, although he trained only one student during his lifetime. Mario Gadda died in 2008 in Mantua, leaving a legacy in violin making history.
The profile pictures of Mario Gadda were published with the consent of Liuteria Mantovana Antonelli. Source: http://antonelli.altervista.org/mario_gadda.html