Fabio Nicotra
A Life Dedicated to Sound
Fabio Nicotra is an Italian violin maker based in Palermo, specialising in the making, restoration and acoustic adjustment of violins, violas and cellos.
Trained in Cremona and Gubbio, his work combines Italian violin-making tradition, acoustic research and more than twenty-five years of experience.
Craftsmanship, Research and Experience
Fabio Nicotra trained at the International School of Violin Making in Cremona and at the School of Violin and Bow Making in Gubbio. He developed his craft through direct experience with the Italian violin-making tradition and through work in the atelier of master violin maker Claude Lebet.
Since 1999, his work has focused on the creation and restoration of fine string instruments, combining traditional craftsmanship with continuous research into wood selection, acoustic response, construction methods and the individual character of sound.
Over the years, Fabio Nicotra has collaborated with musicians, conservatories and cultural institutions, including the Fondazione Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana and the Conservatory of Music in Palermo.
He has also worked as a court-appointed technical expert and collaborated with the Carabinieri Cultural Heritage Protection Unit in Palermo.
His instruments have been presented at national and international exhibitions, reflecting a personal approach in which tradition, acoustic research and musical sensitivity remain inseparable.
Franco Mezzena plays a Fabio Nicotra violin
International Violinist
Franco Mezzena plays a Fabio Nicotra violin, Palermo 2022.
Visit Official Website →Musicians playing Fabio Nicotra instruments
Fabio Nicotra instruments in the hands of internationally acclaimed musicians, recorded in the atelier and beyond.
Giovanni Sollima
Cello by Fabio Nicotra
Franco Mezzena, Violinist
Violin by Fabio Nicotra
Dmitry Fershtman
Cello by Fabio Nicotra
Former professor at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and the Royal Conservatoire The Hague.
Miriam Prandi
Cello by Fabio Nicotra
Max Beitan
Cello by Fabio Nicotra
Franco Mezzena featured recording
In this recording, Franco Mezzena plays a violin built by Fabio Nicotra in Palermo in 2022, inspired by the 1741 Guarneri del Gesù “Kochanski”.
Visit Franco Mezzena website →Inside the Atelier
Where wood, tradition and sound take shape.
Fabio Nicotra — Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Fabio Nicotra?
Fabio Nicotra is an Italian violin maker based in Palermo, Sicily. His work is dedicated to the construction of fine violins, violas and cellos, together with restoration, acoustic setup and the selection of important antique and contemporary string instruments.
Where is the Fabio Nicotra violin-making atelier?
The atelier is located in the historic centre of Palermo, Sicily, at Piazza Olivella 15. Visits and private consultations can be arranged by appointment for musicians, collectors and clients interested in instruments or atelier services.
Is Fabio Nicotra's work connected to the Cremonese violin-making tradition?
Yes. Fabio Nicotra’s work is rooted in the Italian and Cremonese violin-making tradition, with close attention to classical construction principles, historic models and the relationship between craftsmanship, materials and acoustic response.
What distinguishes Fabio Nicotra's approach to violin making?
His approach combines traditional manual craftsmanship with careful observation of the acoustic behaviour of wood and the completed instrument. Construction decisions are guided by experience, sensitivity to materials and the pursuit of balance, responsiveness and a distinctive musical identity.
Does acoustic research influence the construction of Fabio Nicotra instruments?
Yes. Acoustic behaviour is considered throughout the making process, alongside traditional craftsmanship. The objective is not to standardise the sound, but to understand and develop the individual potential of each violin, viola or cello.
Which instruments does Fabio Nicotra make?
Fabio Nicotra builds violins, violas and cellos individually by hand. Each instrument is conceived as a unique project, with attention to model, materials, construction, varnish, setup and final acoustic character.
Does Fabio Nicotra work directly with professional musicians?
Yes. Direct dialogue with musicians is an important part of the atelier’s work. Playing style, response, projection, tonal balance and individual musical needs can all be considered when selecting, commissioning or adjusting an instrument.
Can collectors consult Fabio Nicotra about fine string instruments?
Yes. Private collectors may contact the atelier for discreet consultation regarding fine violins, violas and cellos, including selection, condition, documentation, evaluation and potential acquisition of important instruments.
Can I visit the atelier and meet Fabio Nicotra personally?
Yes. Private appointments can be arranged at the Palermo atelier. A visit may include discussion of a commission, examination of an available instrument, consultation regarding restoration or a conversation about a specific musical or collecting requirement.
How can I contact Fabio Nicotra directly about an instrument?
Enquiries can be made directly through the atelier regarding commissions, available instruments, restoration, acoustic setup, evaluations or private consultations. Providing a brief description of your requirements helps prepare the conversation in advance.