Giuseppe Pedrazzini

History

Giuseppe Pedrazzini (1879-1957) was born in Pizzighettone, Cremona, Italy, in 1879, and passed away in Milan in 1957. The son of a cabinet maker, he became a pupil of R. & A. Antoniazzi in violin making in Milan from approximately 1903. Pedrazzini established his independent workshop in 1906 and was subsequently appointed luthier to the Conservatoire and Opera House in Milan. He garnered several medals and prizes throughout his career, notably in Rome in 1920 and in Cremona in 1937. According to The Brompton’s Book of Violin & Bow Makers by John Dilworth, he was assisted at various times by F. Garimberti, P. Parravicini, and N. Novelli.

Craft

• Methods: Giuseppe Pedrazzini crafted very refined instruments, heavily influenced by Amati and Stradivari models, and incorporated idiosyncratic and stylish touches into his work.
• Materials: He was known for utilizing excellent materials in his constructions.
• Varnish: His instruments featured an orange to red-brown varnish, distinguished by its clarity and good texture.

Influence

• Training and Mentorship: Pedrazzini was a pupil of R. & A. Antoniazzi in Milan starting around 1903 and was much influenced by their approach to violin making.
• Notable Associations: He held the distinguished position of luthier to the Conservatoire and Opera House in Milan. His workshop also saw assistance from fellow makers F. Garimberti, P. Parravicini, and N. Novelli.

Recognition

• Awards and Honors: Giuseppe Pedrazzini received significant recognition during his lifetime, including multiple medals and prizes, with notable awards in Rome in 1920 and Cremona in 1937.

Further Information

• Technical Characteristics: Pedrazzini is particularly renowned for producing fine cellos and double basses, and he also made guitars. His instruments were branded internally, bearing labels such as "Giuseppe Pedrazzini / Cremonese / fece in Milano l’Anno 1.." (made in Milan in the year [year]) and "Giuseppe Pedrazzini Cremonese / fece in Milano 1945" (made in Milan 1945).

Summary

Giuseppe Pedrazzini (1879-1957) was an esteemed Italian violin maker, originating from Cremona but primarily working in Milan. His training under R. & A. Antoniazzi profoundly shaped his style, leading him to create refined instruments modeled after Amati and Stradivari, yet infused with his own distinctive artistic flair. Pedrazzini was lauded for his meticulous choice of excellent materials, his clear and richly textured orange to red-brown varnish, and his exceptional craftsmanship in cellos and double basses. His appointment to the Milan Conservatoire and Opera House, coupled with numerous awards, solidifies his reputation as a significant figure in early 20th-century violin making.