Title: From South Korea to Italy: A Rising Star in the World of Violin Making
In the world of craftspeople whose work rises to the level of art, Ayoung An stands out as a shining star. From a young age, An’s passion for violin making has taken her on a remarkable journey from her hometown in South Korea to the historic hub of Cremona, Italy.
An’s love for the violin began at the age of 8 when her parents bought her a violin, which she cherished and slept with every night. By the age of 10, she was already frequenting a local shop selling musical instruments, bombarding the owner with questions and showing a keen interest in the craft.
Determined to become a violin maker, An pursued her dream with unwavering dedication. She made the bold decision to move to the United States at the age of 17 to attend the Chicago School of Violin Making, as there were no such schools in Korea at the time. Despite initial resistance from her parents, An’s passion and determination led her to pursue her dream.
Eventually, An found herself in Cremona, Italy, a renowned center for violin making since the 16th century. Today, she runs her own workshop in Cremona, where she meticulously crafts violins and cellos in the tradition of masters like Stradivari and Guarneri.
An’s studio in Cremona is a haven of creativity, filled with natural light, books, and piles of wood chunks that must air dry for years before becoming instruments. With her husband, who is also a violin maker, by her side, An pours her heart and soul into each instrument she creates.
An’s dedication to her craft is evident in every step of the process, from shaping the wood to varnishing and polishing the instrument. She follows the traditional methods of violin making, striving for the sound quality and craftsmanship of the masters who came before her.
As the youngest member of a consortium in Cremona dedicated to upholding violin-making traditions, An has truly immersed herself in the art and culture of her craft. She even adopted an Italian artist’s name, Anna Arietti, to better fit in with the local community.
For An, the most rewarding moment comes when she places her label inside the instrument, a symbolic “baptism” that marks her work as a lasting legacy. With each violin she creates, An hopes to leave a lasting impression, knowing that her instruments will be cherished and remembered for generations to come.
An’s story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in craftsmanship. As she continues to hone her skills and create beautiful instruments, An’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring craftspeople around the world.
