Benedicte Friedmann violin "Ardor", Guadagnini model, Cremona, 2026 | Metzler Violins

I graduated in 1997 in violin and in 1999 in viola. I continued my studies in musicology at the Sorbonne in Paris. My thesis in Musicology is entitled: “The Quinton and the Five-Stringed Pardessus de Viole” – supervisor: Professor Nicolas Meuss.

During my years of study at the Sorbonne I visited many violin makers. The perfume of resins, the contact with wood, and the curiosity to know how a violin was made ignited my passion for violin making.

In 1999 I moved to Cremona to begin my new life path. I attended the International Violin Making School under the guidance of Master Giorgio Scolari.

In 2002 I received the Ferraroni Prize for best graduating student – “Tecnico di Liuteria” and the prize for best thesis.
Upon completing my studies I frequented the workshop of Master Eros Barcellari to deepen my training in stylistic technique and acoustic aspects. I also studied the art of varnishing and instrument set up with Master Stefano Konya “Il Giovane”.

In 2007 I opened my workshop in the historic centre of Cremona to dedicate myself to building violins, violas, and cellos. Today my instruments are mainly inspired by the Cremonese school – Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesù – but also by more recent makers such as Ornati. Over the years I have participated in many national and international competitions, including those in Mittenwald, Paris, and the famous “Triennale” competition in Cremona.

I am currently a member of both the Consorzio Liutai Antonio Stradivari and the A.L.I (Associazione Liutai Italiani) violin makers’ associations.