The World's Best Violin Makers of 2025

Our search for the best violin makers in the world continues, as today's finest luthiers combine centuries-old traditions with modern innovation.

As the leading provider of contemporary violins, violas, cellos, and bows, MyLuthier is dedicated to sourcing and offering the best examples of violin making available. Our team, comprised of professional musicians, travels extensively to bring you a selection of the finest contemporary violin makers of 2025.

It is important to note that this list is by no means exhaustive, but rather a record of the most impressive makers and instruments that we have come across in our travels this year. The world of contemporary violin making is constantly evolving, with new makers emerging and established makers pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Our goal is to bring you a snapshot of the best of what is being produced today, but we encourage you to continue your own exploration and discover the many talented makers and beautiful instruments that are out there.

The Best Contemporary Violin Makers Shaping Modern Music

Stefan-Peter Greiner

Stefan-Peter Greiner

Stefan-Peter Greiner, widely regarded as one of the best violin makers in the world, has established his workshop in London, contributing to the city's reputation as a centre for fine instrument making. His violins, considered among the best violins in London, have earned international acclaim for their exceptional tonal qualities and masterful craftsmanship. Leading soloists including Leonidas Kavakos and Christian Tetzlaff have chosen Greiner's instruments for their concert performances, testament to their remarkable acoustic properties.

Violin by Stefan-Peter Greiner, London 2011

best living violin maker

We are very pleased to offer this rare violin by Stefan-Peter Greiner made in London in 2011. Peter's violins are in demand around the world and are played by some of the most prominent musicians of our time, including Chistian Tetzlaff, Leonidas Kavakos, Clemens Hagen to name a few. This violin is from his most sought-after period and it has a powerful yet refined and characterful tone, typical of Greiner's instruments.

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Visit Greiner's Website

Marc Paquin

Marc Paquin

Marc Paquin brings unique insights through his background as both craftsman and musician. After studying at London's Guildhall School of Music, he trained under master luthiers in Switzerland. Since 2006, Paquin has dedicated himself to researching sound quality and playability. His instruments, characterised by their powerful projection and tonal clarity, have found homes with international soloists including Sergey Malov and Leticia Moreno.

Violin by Marc Paquin, Granada 2024 Stradivari

best professional violins

Marc Paquin's reputation precedes him and he is one of our favourite violin makers, renowned for his consistently excellent instruments. This particular Stradivari model exemplifies Paquin's dedication and expertise, the result of over ten years of meticulous research into sound quality, power, timbre, and playability. The violin boasts a very powerful sound with remarkable projection and a beautiful timbre. It offers a rich, balanced tone with a powerful E string that responds flawlessly to the player's touch. Today, Paquin's violins are used by professional musicians and international soloists worldwide, from Spain to Australia.
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Visit Marc's Website

Gregg Alf

Gregg Alf

Recognised as one of the best living violin makers, Gregg Alf represents the pinnacle of American lutherie. A graduate of the prestigious Cremona Violinmaking School, his accomplishments include gold medals and the distinguished "Hors Concours" recognition from the Violin Society of America. Through his work at Alf Studios, he not only creates exceptional instruments but also trains future generations of top violin makers.

Violin by Gregg Alf, 2024

american violin making

It has been our long-standing mission to partner with some of the leading names in the violin making world in order to offer the very best contemporary instruments one can find. This is the latest creation by Gregg Alf, and second of our collaboration. The violin boasts a powerful and broad tone throughout. Every string has its own richness and as you dig into the string, the violin responds with ease. The brilliancy and vibrancy makes it reminiscent of the finest antique Italian violins. A true gem from a true master!

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Visit Gregg's Website

Elina Kaljunen

Elina Kaljunen

Finnish violin maker Elina Kaljunen exemplifies the global reach of contemporary lutherie. With training from both the Cremona International Violin Making School and London-based master John Dilworth, she creates instruments that honour Italian tradition while incorporating modern precision.

Violin by Elina Kaljunen, Finland 2023

best nordic violin maker

Elina Kaljunen from Helsinki, Finland is one of the most talented makers of her generation. She crafts stunning instruments with meticulous care and attention to detail. This Stradivari model is immediately very impressive. It has a bright and powerful tone with lots of focus and projection. The response is extremely fast and overall, the playability is is very good. This is due to the care she takes in perfecting the setup. As a player herself, Elina knows how important this is to musicians. The sound is rich and deep throughout the register and even in the higher positions, this violin really is able to set itself apart. Highly recommended!
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Visit Elina's Website

Joseph Curtin

Joseph Curtin

Joseph Curtin, recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship, stands among the best contemporary violin makers through his innovative approach. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, he combines traditional craftsmanship with scientific analysis, using technologies like MRI and laser scanning to understand and enhance violin acoustics. His work spans both classical wooden instruments and groundbreaking designs in carbon fiber.

This overview reflects developments in violin making as of 2025. The landscape of best contemporary violin makers continues to evolve as new talents emerge and established masters refine their craft.

About the Author

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.

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