What is your educational background?
After attending the Institute of Art in Lecce, my hometown, I moved to Cremona to study guitar construction. There, I attended the Stradivari International School of Violin Making. Later, I moved to Germany for a short experience in instrument restoration, and then returned to Cremona, where I opened my workshop.
Did you learn from a master?
Five years ago I met Igor Moroder, a famous master luthier and restorer. He completely changed my vision of the job. For example, he taught me a new working method. We went to China together, where there are leading musicians who are also our customers.
©Francesco Toto Liutaio
What is little-known about your work?
My real work starts after I sell an instrument: wood is a living material and requires constant adjustments. A good violin maker should follow his instruments all over the world, because a violin undergoes continuous alterations.
What do you love most about your profession?
We have a big commitment and responsibility towards musicians, because their career depends on the instruments we create. If the sound is not good, a musician might doubt their abilities.