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Today, we turn our attention to a quartet of young French violin makers, whose inspiring work is continuing the age-old tradition of luthiery in this country.
Each of these talented luthiers is redefining the craft, taking a fresh approach to a time-honored tradition. From Paris to Toulouse, they are shaping the future of violin-making in France, their innovative designs perfectly balanced with respect for traditional techniques.
Join us as we delve into the world of these talented individuals, discover their unique stories, and explore the incredible instruments they produce.
The son of Frederic Chaudiere, Octave comes from a family of violin makers. This violin is a captivating and charming instrument that appeals to a wide range of musicians. It stands out as a delightful addition to any music lover's collection. Its pleasant resonance and rich tonal qualities create an immersive playing experience that both performers and listeners can enjoy. Comfortable to hold and easy to play, the Octave Chaudiere violin ensures that musicians can focus on expressing their creativity and passion without distraction. This instrument is an inspiring example of the diverse world of music-making.
The craft of cello making in France is steeped in centuries of distinguished tradition. It can therefore, be difficult to stand out as a new cello maker, which is why the work of Baptiste Juguera is that much more impressive. This is the second cello we have had in our collection and, in our opinion, solidifies Juguera's reputation as one of the premier cello makers in the country. The instrument has a bold and uncompromising tone, with rich harmonics and a boomy low register. Suitable for a player who wishes to develop a long term partnership with an instrument with lots of potential.
The way I make my instruments and my design are mostly inspired by the great Italian masters of the Renaissance who defined the standards of lutherie
The observation of ancient instruments inspires me to look for the best wood, the most beautiful models and the best architecture for the arching.
All my work is done with sharp tools like planes, gouges but also self-made knives and flat gouges.
I also prepare my varnishes from oil and different resins to be able to influence their colour, transparency, flexibility or hardness.
Imitating or getting inspired by centuries-old models is not enough. I am always looking for new features. I also design models of violins, altos and cellos in which I translate what I have learned from old my masters and my vision of what can make them better.
I take great care of choosing the right wood which I can buy personally in Italy to be sure of its quality. I also make some of my tools for them to adapt perfectly to my hands. I also prepare my varnishes from oil and different resins to be able to influence their colour, transparency, flexibility or hardness.
My instruments are on display in Montpellier, Paris, Washington DC, Seattle, New-York, London, South-Korea and in Japan.
Benjamin Molinaro is a talented maker based in Paris, France. His latest cello, inspired by Giuseppe Guarneri 'filius Andreæ', immediately draws the listener in with it's warm and balanced sound. In keeping with Molinaro's innovative approach to instrument-making, this cello has its own distinctive features that set it apart from traditional Guarneri designs. Molinaro has incorporated his own unique style into the instrument, resulting in an instrument full of character that blends the best of the old and the new. A great find at this price range!
Benjamin Molinaro is a French luthier based in Montreuil, France. After receiving training in Newark and gaining work experience in the United Kingdom and France, Molinaro spent a number of years working in Bernard Sabatier's workshop on Rue de Rome in Paris. During this period, Molinaro developed a novel approach to the craft of violin making, which led him to devote his career to the art full-time.
Benjamin draws inspiration from the exceptional works of the renowned Italian craftsmen, but he prides himself on defining his own unique style and designing his own models. Since 2019, he has operated his own workshop in Montreuil, a suburb of Paris, where he specializes in crafting violins, violas, and cellos.
One of Molinaro's recent works, a cello, was selected as a semi-finalist in the inaugural International Cello Competition held in Paris.
A beautifully crafted viola, made by Master Luthier Bonten in his workshop in France. The body length is 40,5 cm (16 inches) and well suited to violists of all sizes. It has a beautiful tone and incredible projection for its size. Suited for a soloist or chamber player. This viola comes certified by the Luthier.
Passionate about music, I first started getting interested in violin making when I was in Buenos Aires in 2001. I spent most of my time in the workshop of Omar Nigrelli, under whose tutelage I first started studying restoration and subsequently violin making. In 2008, I became the assistant of Gonzalo Bayol, a string instrument maker in Santiago de Compostela. I am now in my own workshop in Aveyron, and I specialise in violas and cellos.
MyLuthier was started by two friends while they were studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London. The idea was to provide musicians with exceptional instruments at a price they can afford. We travelled Europe in search for the best contemporary makers and we’re proud of our selection and the partnerships we’ve developed.
Rare antique instruments, representing both historical significance and unparalleled craftsmanship.
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