The state of Spanish lutherie

Jorge Pozas Tarapiella
Cello teacher, member of the Cadequés Orchestra, collector of Spanish-made stringed instruments

I have always found a lack of information about Spanish lutherie: in violin books and articles there is generally either a total disregard for making in the 18th century or, if it is mentioned, there’s always been a sense of mystery. This general slackness and lack of pride in our artistic heritage gradually suffocated interest and growth in the art over the years.

Spain in the 18th century was closely linked to Naples and Sicily. Charles IV of Spain spent his entire childhood and adolescence in Italy. He played the violin, and the Spanish court and aristocracy at the time owned many top Italian instruments. It is therefore no surprise that violin makers such as Contreras, Ortéga, Guillami and Bofill were strongly influenced by the Italian style.

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