Cremona · From Living Wood to Pure Voice
Every instrument is born from hand-selected woods, shaped with patience and coated in varnishes following the centuries-old tradition of the Cremonese School.
The Luthier
My name is Marcelo Cavanna and, for nearly twenty years, I have worked at the heart of Cremonese lutherie. After earning my master luthier's diploma at the "Antonio Stradivari" International Professional Institute for Lutherie and Woodcraft (IPIALL) in Cremona, I settled in Cremona, pursuing a path that blends innovation and artisanal tradition.
In my workshop at Largo Pagliari 16, I passionately build bowed string instruments — violins, violas, cellos. The quality of the materials, the precision of the finishes and a craftsman's approach guide me through every stage of the work.
My work has been recognised in national and international settings: I have received prestigious awards at the national ANLAI competitions and, more recently, a Certificate of Merit and an Honourable Mention as a finalist in the violin category at the "Antonio Stradivari" International Triennial Competition — a tangible sign of contemporary excellence in lutherie.
I Craft
The Production
Every piece is built on commission, tailored to the musician and the repertoire they will perform.
Built after the classical models of Stradivari, Guarneri and Amati. Resonance spruce and curly maple of the finest selection.
Proportions studied to ensure the tonal richness that defines the Cremonese tradition. Custom-made for the musician.
Built with maximum attention to wood selection and ergonomics, offering sound power and depth at the highest levels of classical lutherie.
"A violin is not built: it is listened into being."
— Marcelo Cavanna
The Production
Every instrument is captured in its finest details: from the top plate to the scroll, from the varnish to the f-holes.
Training & Excellence
Rigorous training at the most respected institutions of the world lutherie tradition.
Violin-category finalist at the 16th "Antonio Stradivari" International Triennial Competition of Violin Making, Cremona 2021, under the High Patronage of the President of the Italian Republic. Museo del Violino Foundation.
First prize, viola category, at the 10th ANLAI National Bowed Instruments Competition. Milan, May 2016.
First prize, violin category, at the 8th ANLAI National Violin Making Competition. Cremona, May 2014.