Francesco Toto violin, 2002, Cremona, ITALY, with maker's certificate of authenticity | Metzler Violins

resonant, versatile, spirited
 
About the Instrument
This violin is nimble and clear while also warm and resonant. Its versatility makes for an excellent solo instrument. The delicate reddish-brown varnish is richly applied to bring out the flame grain along its single-piece back and the prufling along the instrument’s edges.

Interior label reads: “Francesco Toto / Cremona 2002” and bears his brand stamp and signature.
Length: 357 mm
Upper Bouts: 167 mm
Middle: 114 mm
Lower Bouts: 206 mm

About the Maker
Francesco Toto (1972- ) is a modern luthier born in Lecce, Italy. Upon graduating from the G. Pellegrino Institute for Art in his home town, Toto enrolled in the Antonio Stradivari International School of Violin Making in Cremona. He moved to Germany after completing his studies, focusing on developing his skills as a restorer. In 1996, Toto opened his atelier in Cremona, refining his varnishes, wood selection, and instrument models over the years. Today, he continues to build some of the most desirable stringed instruments made in the city recognized for its luthiers, with violins known for their excellent quality of sound. His cellos, in particular, have earned him a number of accolades, including a Bronze Medal in Mittenwald, a Certificate of Merit from the Violin Society of America’s International Competition, a Silver Medal at Mittenwald, a Gold Medal and First Place Overall at the International Triennial Competition in Cremona, and Gold Medal from the “Walter Stauffer” Musicology Centre. Toto serves as the President of String Instrument Makers for the CNA Small Business Association in Cremona, is a member of the Antonio Stradivar Consortium of Violin Makers in the city, and is on the Advisory Board of the Cremona Violin Museum.