Gaetano Gadda
1900 – 1956
Gaetano Gadda was an important figure of the Mantuan violin making tradition in the 20th century. He was born in the year 1900 in Sorgà, Italy. At the age of 19 he began working in the nearby city of Mantua in the workshop of Stefano Scarampella. Scarampella’s health was failing in 1924, so he asked Gadda to take over as manager of his workshop. A year later he passed away. Gadda continued to work in Mantua until his own death in 1956.
Gadda’s early instruments were heavily inspired by Scarampella but as his career progressed, he began to develop a more personal style. In the 30s and 40s he made some instruments inspired by the master makers Stradivari and Guarneri. His work constantly became more refined. Gadda’s instruments sold particularly well in America. He participated in lots of international exhibitions during his life and won several awards for his fine work.
Gadda trained his son, Mario Gadda, who became quite an excellent luthier as well.
Labeled “Stefano Scarampella di Brescia / Premiato con Medaglie D’Argento / Fratello Ed Alievo Del Giuseppe / Fece in Mantova Anno 1906”.
Labeled “Gaetano Gadda di Mantova / premiato con Medaglia d’Oro / Allievo di Stefano Scarampella / fece in Mantova anno 1929”. This violin has been sold.