Fabio Nicotra, Violin Maker in Palermo
Fabio Nicotra is an Italian violin maker based in Palermo, crafting handmade violins, violas and cellos in the great Cremonese tradition of violin making.
His work combines carefully selected woods, acoustic research and the sensitivity of traditional craftsmanship to create instruments with a distinctive voice. The atelier also specialises in the restoration, acoustic setup and fine-tuning of string instruments, alongside a selected collection of antique violins.
At the Origins of Sound
Craftsmanship, intuition and the pursuit of a distinctive voice.
Selected Instruments
Handcrafted instruments, each with its own voice and identity
Your sound deserves an instrument made for you
Crafted to Become Your Voice
Rooted in the great Cremonese tradition of violin making, every Nicotra instrument is shaped through a profound understanding of wood, acoustics and the sensitivity of the maker. A distinctive voice, crafted to become one with the musician.
Everyone’s needs are different. Tell me what you’re looking for and let’s work out the best solution together, through a direct and personal discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the instruments entirely handmade?
Yes. Every instrument is made entirely by hand, using carefully selected woods that are individually worked in my atelier.
Can I commission an instrument?
Yes. Instruments can be commissioned directly from the atelier.
How long does it take to create a commissioned instrument?
The making of a commissioned instrument takes approximately three months.
Can I try an instrument before purchasing it?
Of course. Instruments can be viewed and played in person by appointment at my atelier.
Do you work with professional musicians and collectors?
Yes. We work with musicians throughout Europe and collectors from around the world.
Do you ship instruments internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide using priority, fully insured services, with meticulous attention to the protection and handling of each instrument.
Can the sound of an instrument be tailored to the musician?
Every commissioned instrument is conceived around the musician’s individual needs, both in terms of playability and acoustic response. My aim is to create an instrument whose character naturally complements the qualities of the musician who plays it.
Do you restore antique string instruments?
Yes. We restore antique string instruments with the utmost respect for their original character, preserving their structural and acoustic integrity.
Do you offer antique instruments for sale?
Yes. A selection of antique violins is available for viewing at the atelier. Please contact us for current availability or to arrange an appointment.
Do you provide acoustic setup and adjustment?
Yes. We provide professional setup, acoustic adjustment and fine-tuning services by appointment. Please contact the atelier to arrange a consultation.
Inside the Nicotra Atelier
Explore the instruments, craftsmanship and philosophy of Fabio Nicotra in the official brochure.
In Their Own Words
“An instrument capable of responding naturally to the musician, revealing depth, character and an extraordinary sensitivity to touch.”
Giovanni Sollima
Composer & Cellist
“A refined balance between projection, responsiveness and tonal personality, with the immediacy a musician looks for in an instrument.”
Franco Mezzena
Violinist
“The sound has presence and depth, while the instrument remains remarkably responsive to every nuance of the player.”
Maxim Beitan
Cellist
“A warm and expressive voice, combined with a natural response that allows the musician to shape every phrase with freedom.”
Miriam Prandi
Cellist
“What stands out is the connection between player and instrument: immediate, personal and capable of developing a distinctive voice.”
Alessio Pianelli
Cellist