Biography

Ciurba Claudiu

My introduction with the manufacturing of musical instruments was at a very early age, as violin making was a family tradition. Since I was little I used to stand by my father while he was working on something, trying to blend in by polishing a violin, thing that made me at the age of twelve, “ very useful “.
While attending a high-school specialized in wood carving, I decided to attend the courses of a violin making school.

1991

In 1991, I started courses at the International Violin Making School of Cremona-IPIALL-, under the guidance of Master Wanna Zambelli, for four years. At the same school, I had as teachers Master Massimo Negroni , at varnishing, and Master Stefano Conia at restoration.

1995

I finished my studies, obtaining the Master Violin Maker qualification, in Cremona, 1995, when I returned to my country. Here I continued my training working with my father.

1997

Since 1997 I have had my own business, having my father’s permanent support.
Then came a period of intense collaboration with well known workshops from Cremona for which I was privileged to work thanks to the technical knowledge I had regarding the Cremonese classical style of execution and acoustics.
I participated at some international contests of which I remember: Cremona 1994, Baveno 1995, Cremona 1997, Cremona 2000, Pisogne 2011.
I have also participated for many years at the “Mondomusica” International Fair from Cremona.
At the moment I am collaborating with a workshop from Torino, Italy, and my activity is divided between two locations, Reghin and Torino.

2001

In response to traders' requests, I decided to set aside some of my work time to create the "Workshop" line. As a result, I brought together a highly talented and professional team to develop instruments of exceptional quality. These instruments can confidently compete with the esteemed Master's creations.

2006

Our instruments successfully entered the Japanese market, thanks to our collaboration with the renowned Shirakawa Sogyo & Co

2010

I had the privilege of participating in the Cremona International Fair - Mondomusica, alongside my father, who has amassed 50 years of experience in the field of lutherie.

2016

I had the opportunity to attend the prestigious lutherie workshop titled "Preparation du bois et vernissage en lutherie" in Schauffhausen, Switzerland. The workshop was organised by the esteemed restorer Francois Perego.

2017

I also took part in the lutherie workshop "Preparation des vernis gras pour la lutherie" in Becherel, France.

2022

After gaining 30 years of professional experience, I made the difficult decision, due to health reasons, to focus solely on crafting personal instruments. Unfortunately, this meant parting ways with the team that had become like a second family to me for nearly two decades. However, this change allows me to leverage my extensive expertise and deliver high-quality instruments tailored to the specific requirements of my customers.

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