Arturo Fracassi

1899 – 1973

 

Arturo Fracassi was born in 1899 in Sant’Antonio di Gattero, Italy, in 1899. Sant’Antonio was a very musical town, and Arturo immediately showed a strong interest in playing music. In 1919, Fracassi started studying violin making at the workshop of violin maker Carlo Biondi of Borella. Biondi only taught Fracassi the bare minimum, out of fear that his student would surpass him. Fracassi finished his first violin in 1924, with techniques for varnishing that he learned independently.

In 1925, Fracassi and his family moved to Cesena. He was still a passionate musician and he established the “Fracassi-Cesena” orchestra. Though he continued playing the violin for many years, violin-making ultimately took over as his primary passion. Between 1926 and 1936, he made many violins, violas, cellos, and bows. He developed a strong talent for business at this time as well, developing relationships with buyers and musicians around the world. Fracassi moved to Rimini in 1959, where he worked until his death in 1973.

Fracassi designed a personal model with a beautiful sound. He was particularly talented at shaping the arching of his instruments. He often used yellow or brown varnish. He won many awards throughout his career, including gold and silver medals in Rome, Cesana, and Florence.