The workshop — the craft, step by step
On Sălciilor Street in Reghin, a master violin, viola or cello is not manufactured — it is built, entirely by hand, the way instruments were built in Stradivari's day.
Wood dried for 15 years
Resonance spruce for the tops, flamed maple for the backs, necks and ribs — naturally seasoned for at least 15 years before construction begins.
Hand carving
Every piece is carved with the chisel, not the machine. Ebony and Indian rosewood complete the fittings.
Oil & amber varnish
Traditional varnish based on oil and amber resin, applied and antiqued by hand, layer by layer.
Final setup
The bridge, soundpost and strings are adjusted by ear, until it sounds the way a master instrument should sound.
“I never wanted to expand. The moment you do, it's no longer a master instrument, it's series production. You have to put soul into every instrument for it to be good, to sound beautiful.”— Mare Vasile, master luthier
Diplomas & international recognition
More than three decades of taking part in Europe's most important luthiery competitions — Mittenwald (Germany), Cremona (Italy), Reghin.
Mare Vasile — distinctions
Mare Aurelian — distinctions
Vasile's son, Aurelian, has a rich international record of his own — Mittenwald, Cremona, Reghin, Sofia, Veszprém — crowned by First Prize, viola, Reghin 2012. His diplomas can be seen on his own website.
See Mare Aurelian's diplomas →Come and see the workshop with your own eyes.
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