Officina Mauro Lucini, Cremona
Workshop portrait and buying guide
At Piazza San Michele 7 in Cremona — a few steps from the old cathedral, the church of San Michele, in the rooms of the former hospital that once belonged to the cathedral — sits the Officina Mauro Lucini. This small Cremonese workshop represents over four decades of violin making at this address. Mauro Lucini works today with a team of young craftspeople trained at the Cremona violin-making school and international institutions — a combination of long experience and craft renewal that shows in every instrument.
Varnish research
What sets Officina Mauro Lucini apart from other Cremona workshops is its independent varnish work. The workshop uses house-made varnishes of its own formulation — spirit-oil varnishes and pure oil varnishes — and actively researches the varnishing methods of the old masters. How do different varnish recipes affect resonance and sound? This question drives the workshop continuously, and the findings go into every instrument. The visible result is a transparent orange-brown color and a finish that gives the sound a resonant-free quality.
The models
The Stradivari model
A warm sound with a soft quality. The tone is full in the middle register; moving upward it becomes sweet and wonderfully resonant. The response is easy — the instrument gives quickly, without requiring pressure. In a direct comparison with four other violins around €6,000, this model came out ahead. Suitable for all players; favoured by women.
The Guarneri model
A stronger, clearer, more mature sound. More substance and directness — an instrument with presence. The Cremonese Guarneri tradition emphasises projection over mellowness. Suited to players with a strong bow arm; first choice for advanced players who prioritise core tone and carrying power.
Prices
New violins purchased directly in Cremona from the maker are rarely available below €8,000. Instruments from Officina Mauro Lucini are available through authorised dealers at significantly lower prices — and can be purchased from the UK with free shipping and a 30-day return guarantee:
- Violins: entry-level models from approx. €3,500–3,800
- Violins: mid-range €4,000–5,000
- Cellos: €7,500–8,500
Prices within a model may vary slightly. Since each instrument is made individually from hand-selected wood, the grain, finish and tonal maturity of the particular piece all contribute to the price. New instruments from a craft workshop have a clear advantage: playability is more predictable. A new instrument is set up, tested and ready to play immediately.
Available through Corilon violins
Officina Mauro Lucini does not sell directly to end customers. Instruments are distributed exclusively through authorised dealers. In Germany and worldwide — including the United Kingdom — Corilon violins Munich carries the complete range.
Corilon sets up every instrument in its own workshop, inspects it before shipping, and delivers it play-ready. Every Lucini instrument comes with an original certificate from the Officina. Purchase is possible worldwide — free shipping, 30-day return guarantee. Those who would like to try an instrument in person can arrange a visit in Munich.
Corilon also offers a trade-in guarantee: anyone who wishes to return an instrument or exchange it for another can trade it in at Corilon — both new and antique instruments are accepted. This is not available at any other dealer.
What buyers say
Officina Mauro Lucini holds 18 reviews on Google — average 5.0 out of 5. A selection:
"I'm from the US. Ordered a violin. Arrived in a very timely manner and is absolutely beautiful. Could not be more happy!"— C. D., 5/5
"As a professional musician I notice differences immediately. Not every affordable violin in this price range is convincing — this one is."— Lina-Fee Nestle, 5/5
"I have already purchased several instruments from Corilon and am highly satisfied with the service and quality."— R.H., 5/5
★★★★★ See all 18 Google reviews — Officina Mauro Lucini, Cremona
Summary
Officina Mauro Lucini is a small Cremonese workshop with a distinctive profile: four decades of experience, active varnish research, a team combining tradition and craft renewal. Convincing in sound and workmanship for its price segment.
Instruments from Officina Mauro Lucini are available worldwide through Corilon violins Munich — free shipping, 30-day return guarantee, original certificate, and trade-in guarantee.
Related article about the Mauro Lucini workshop from a specialist forum:
Mauro Lucini and the next generation
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