Maker Background
Stefano Conia is a violin maker based in Cremona.
In his workshop, located in the heart of the violin-making city, he crafts instruments inspired by the classical models of the great masters, while also developing his own unique designs.
Born in Hungary in 1946, Stefano Conia developed an early passion for the violin and instrument making inspired by his father, who was a graduate of the Cremona School of Violin Making. After completing his high school and violin studies in his homeland, he moved to Italy to further pursue his craft. From 1968 to 1972, he studied at the International School of Violin Making in Cremona, training under the expertise of Masters Sgarabotto, Morassi, and Bissolotti. Conia spent more than twenty years teaching at the Cremona School of Violin Making. He initially specialized in varnishing and restoration before focusing on the construction of instruments. His instruments are inspired by the classical models of the great masters, while also featuring his own unique designs. He carefully selects high-quality, well-aged woods, and his instruments are characterized by their classic lines, refined archings, and vibrant varnish. Over the years, Conia has earned numerous awards at both national and international competitions and he has been an active member of the violin makers community both in Italy and Europe, taking part in the foundation of both the Italian Violin Making Association (ALI) and the European Association of Violin Makers (AEL).
