Saulius Urbietis – a Professional Violin Maker from Lithuania

For more than four decades, I have been crafting string instruments, guided by the knowledge and experience of the old masters.

My path in this profession began with four years of study under the master Denis Jarovoy, whose own teacher was the renowned Giuseppe Fiorini – one of the last great preservers of the Italian violin-making tradition. This direct link to history inspired me to seek not only technical perfection, but also a spiritual connection with every instrument I create.

After completing my studies, I worked as a restorer and violin maker at the Lithuanian State Symphony Orchestra and the National Philharmonic in Warsaw. This experience was invaluable – through collaboration with professional musicians, I gained deep insight into the acoustic qualities of instruments, their influence on performance, and their emotional expression.

Workshop and Philosophy

In 1996, I founded my own workshop, where each instrument is created from the very beginning – from selecting the wood to applying the final layer of varnish. I work only with the highest-quality materials: Alpine spruce, Balkan maple, and natural varnishes and oils.

I use natural spirit and oil varnishes, which I prepare myself following historical recipes. This preserves not only the depth of the instrument’s appearance but also ensures the natural transmission of sound through the wood. Each layer of varnish is applied by hand, allowed to dry naturally, and then polished to a subtle shine.

Models and Sound

I craft my instruments based on the models of the most renowned Italian masters – Antonio Stradivari, Giuseppe Guarneri “del Gesù,” and Niccolò Amati. My goal is not only to recreate their forms with precision, but also to capture the unique sound of old Italian instruments: warm, rich, deep, and full of nuance. I shape the sound through extensive acoustic experimentation, resonance analysis, and the careful adjustment of the instrument’s internal balance.

Achievements and Trust

Throughout my career, I have created more than 400 string instruments – violins, violas, and cellos. My instruments are played by professional musicians from Lithuania, Poland, Italy, Germany, the United States, and the Scandinavian countries. Among them are concertmasters, soloists, conservatory professors, and advanced students.

Many clients come through recommendations and return after years or even decades – the greatest recognition a craftsman can receive.