Violin Maker
Cristiano Scipioni
Italy, Mantua
Born in Mantova in 1969, Scipioni studied violin making under the guidance of Master Luca Salvadori, following the processes of traditional Cremonese violin making standards. The maker focused mainly on violins and double basses, for which he developed his model, caring primarily for acoustic performance and playability of his instruments.Read more
Short Bio
Full Name: Cristiano Scipioni
Age: 53
Highlights
Experience: 27 Years
New making style: AntiquedNew
Credentials
Master maker
Award Holder
Cremonese Traditional Handcraftsmanship
Instruments Owned by Collectors
Works with own model
Awards
2013, Quality of tone prize at ISB convention in Rochester, USA
2018, Bronze Medal at the Makers competition held at the Lucca BassEurope convention, Italy
2019, Prize for craftmanship at the ISB Bloomington convention, USA
2020, first prize at the Makers competition held by the "Società Filarmonica di Trento", Italy
Locally making
Italy, Mantua
Maker Background
After graduating in Philosophy from the University of Padua and in double bass from the Conservatory of Mantua, Scipioni became interested in the study of violin making and refined his technique and style under the guidance of master Luca Salvadori, following the processes of the traditional “Scuola Cremonese,” using the inside mould.He has been attracted to musical instruments since when he was a child. During his double bass studies at the Conservatory, Scipioni had the chance to know a Viola da Gamba maker, which helped him make his first bass, giving a start to his passion for violin making.
Besides being played by top-level musicians, Scipioni’s instruments have also been recognized in competitions. In 2013, he won the prize for the quality of tone at the ISB convention in Rochester (NY), and in 2020 won the first prize at the Makers competition held by the “Società Filarmonica di Trento,” among others.
Maker Interview
Why did you start making instruments?
I have always been attracted to musical instruments since I was a child, but I don’t know why! So when I was a double bass student, I had the luck of meeting an old viola da gamba maker who helped me make my first bass… and everything began.
Why your instruments are so special?
I don’t know if they are special, but I’m sure they are made with love and great passion!
What is your inspiration?
I take my inspiration from the maker of the past, both from the Cremona and Mantova traditions.
Where your instruments are currently being played?
My instruments are played in a lot of orchestras worldwide and also by several famous musicians ( Solisti Veneti, Arena di Verona, Athens National Opera, Oslo Music Academy, I Virtuosi Italiani, and many many others…)