Raffaele Calace

1863 – 1934

 

Raffaele Calace, born 1863, continued the violin making tradition of his father Antonio. Calace worked in Naples from 1900, first working with his brother Nicola and then establishing himself independently in 1911. His work included guitars, mandolins, lutes, and violins. Calace’s innovation led to the creation of the classic concert mandolin and the archlute, solving the technical difficulties associated with these types of instruments and increasing the number of mandolins and lutes that were being played professionally. Calace graduated from the Naples Music Academy, published many books and music magazines, and launched a career as a concert mandolin and lute player, touring in Italy and internationally. Calace is also known for his excellent violins, as he participated in violin making exhibitions and won several awards.