Portrait
Mina Mazzolari was born in Korea in 1980 and is an award-winning luthier working in Cremona, in the workshop of Edgar Russ. She makes violins, violas and cellos, and is known for soloist-level instruments that consistently deliver on sound.
She studied piano for many years before her interest turned to stringed instruments, and after finishing school she went to the International Violinmaking School in Cremona. She competed at the International Competition for Stringed Instruments in 2003 and again in 2009, taking an honorary mention for a viola that placed fourth. She works from Guarneri del Gesu for violins and Montagnana for cellos, and her instruments carry certification from her and from the Consorzio Liutai Antonio Stradivari.
Her instruments are in high demand across Europe and beyond, particularly among soloists and chamber musicians.
We tried one of Mina's violins in Cremona and were immediately struck by the sound. It has a laser-like focus and a response that is very satisfying to play into, and it is the obvious choice for anyone looking for depth and projection together. Her Montagnana cellos have the physical and tonal characteristics of an antique Italian instrument, responding very quickly and projecting extremely well, with an outstanding low register and a powerful top. They suit a player who does a lot of solo and chamber repertoire and needs to be heard.
Elsewhere
Compare instruments against each other, and against an antique, in a blind test with studio audio. No labels until you have chosen.
What models does Mina Mazzolari work from?
Guarneri del Gesu for violins and Montagnana for cellos.
Where are Mina Mazzolari instruments made?
In Cremona, Italy. Every instrument is then set up and checked in our own London workshop before it reaches a player.
.avif)
