Master Mina Mazzolari
Cremonese ViolinMaker
“a near-obsessive attention to detail, understanding that it is the smallest elements that can make the greatest difference"
The Sound of Beginnings
Minjeong Kang born in 1980 in Daegu, South Korea, and from a very young age, she developed a deep fascination with music. At the age of five, she began studying the piano, an instrument she played for almost ten years. Through her piano studies, she was introduced to the beauty and complexity of classical music, an experience that profoundly shaped her understanding and appreciation of this art form.
Journey into the Art of Violin Making
At 18, she decided to move to Italy, driven by a sense of adventure. Her first experiences in Italy were challenging, as everything seemed either too small or too large, and the cultural differences felt overwhelming at times. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to immerse herself in the country’s rich cultural heritage. In 1998, she enrolled at the prestigious "A. Stradivari" Violinmaking school in Cremona. Initially, she viewed the school as just the first step in a series of experiences that would shape her new life in Europe. However, the complexity and beauty of violinmaking, particularly the design and construction of stringed instruments, captivated her entirely, sparking a deep passion for the craft.
Preservation of Excellence
In 2003, Mina began working with Master Edgar Russ, a renowned figure in violinmaking. What started as a professional opportunity quickly blossomed into a long-term collaboration, both artistic and business-oriented. In 2009, they co-founded Sound of Cremona Ltd., an innovative and highly respected workshop that has become one of the leading violin-making establishments in Italy and internationally.
In 2005, she expanded her reach through the Cremona-Kremlin Project, with one of her cellos chosen to be performed by Marina Archakova, First Cellist of the prestigious Kremlin Chamber Orchestra, a testament to the exceptional quality of her work.
Her talent shone at the XII International Violin Making Competition Antonio Stradivari in 2009, where her unique 41.5 cm viola earned 4th place and earned multiple honors, including a Special Honorary Mention.
As a proud member of the Consorzio Liutai A. Stradivari, she continues to be a prominent figure in the international violinmaking scene, regularly showcasing her creations at exhibitions celebrated by musicians and collectors alike.
Today, Mina Mazzolari is renowned not only for her skillful craftsmanship but also for her ability to infuse each instrument with soul, continuing to shape the legacy of Cremonese Violinmaking while adding her own vibrant voice to this centuries-old tradition.
Crafting Beauty and Sound
Throughout her career, she developed a deep appreciation for Italian craftsmanship, embracing a style that transforms small imperfections into charming elements of beauty. This approach became central to her work, imbuing her instruments with warmth and character.
She honed the technical skills to create instruments with powerful, rich sound, balancing precision with artistic freedom. Her obsessive attention to detail, from selecting wood to perfecting the varnish, has made her violins, violas, cellos, and double basses highly regarded for their tonal richness and expressive range.
The Art of Sound - Craftsmanship and Legacy
Her instruments have been praised for their exceptional sound quality, with many musicians expressing admiration for their powerful tonal richness and expressive range. Her reputation has grown steadily, and her work is now recognized not only for its technical excellence but also for its emotional depth, a hallmark of true craftsmanship. Through her dedication to both the art and science of violin making, she has succeeded in crafting instruments that inspire musicians and captivate audiences, continuing the proud tradition of Cremonese violinmaking while adding her own unique voice to the craft.
explore the art of Violinmaking in Cremona. 🎻✨
where every instrument is meticulously handcrafted with precision, passion, and attention to detail. The focus is on combining fine craftsmanship with timeless taste, creating violins and violas that are both beautiful and unique. Follow the journey of violinmaking and discover the beauty behind each creation. Follow her Instagram for a closer look at her meticulous process and stunning creations.
Italian craftsmanship, transforming imperfections into beauty and adding warmth and character to the instruments.
