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About Petko Petkov: master violin maker

Petko Petkov Workshop

Petko Petkov was born in Kazanlak, Bulgaria, in 1975. After graduating from high school, he gained experience in violin making at the Kremona factory in his hometown. In 1997, he began his apprenticeship under Master Vladko Naidenov, one of Bulgaria’s top violin makers.
Two years later, in 1999, Petko established his workshop. Since then, he has crafted over 270 instruments for professional musicians and enthusiasts. Specializing in handmade master violins, violas, and cellos, he selects fine Bulgarian woods like Balkan Maple and Spruce for their exceptional acoustics.
With his own store of tone woods, Petko ensures excellent quality materials for every instrument. While following traditional Italian methods, each instrument comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Petko’s instruments are cherished worldwide, owned by musicians in Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Germany, Spain, Macedonia, Greece, Israel, USA, Australia, and beyond. He is a certified master violin maker and an active member of the Bulgarian Luthiers Association, serving on the board of managers. On the other hand he also participates in prestigious competitions, including:
• International Violin Making Competition in the USA, Portland, Oregon, 2008, organized by VSA
• Eufonia 2009, Sofia, Bulgaria
• International Violin Making Competition in Germany, Mitten Wald, 2014
Petko also exhibits his work internationally, showcasing his instruments at events like Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany, Music China in Shanghai, Cremona Musica in Cremona, Italy, and Akustika in Nuremberg, Germany.

Publications

The Strad Magazine February 2018 issue features Petko Petkov’s workshop in “My Space.”
Petko Petkov was published as a contributor in the March 2024 issue of Strad Magazine, discussing the repair of a cello button in the “Trade Secrets” section.

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