Laura Germann

Sourcing string instruments

• Laura is inspired by fellow humans
• She sources vintage instruments for investors
• She trained under five master craftsmen

Laura Germann's desire to become a luthier was sparked when she first heard the word from her violin teacher at the age of 6. From then on, she dreamed of pursuing the profession. While she was still at school, she sent over 100 applications to violin makers for an internship and finally recieved an opportunity in Zurich, 200 km away from her hometown. For the internship, she travelled 400 km by train every day. Completely unexpected, her boss at the time rewarded her dedication with a small salary. Having her own workshop became Laura's goal. Wind the clock forward and today she has her own workshop in the center of Hamburg, near the Michel in Hamburger Neustadt, which she set up in 2016. As well as restoring historic string instruments, Laura also purchases and brokers very valuable instruments for investment purposes, so that they can be played again by professional musicians.

Interview

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

What inspires you?

New ideas and important perspectives are usually brought to me by my fellow humans: people here at Grossneumarkt, clients or university professors. Human stories fascinate me, and I enjoy listening to them, which is why I love having visitors to my workshop.

How do you source violins for investors?

String instruments have increased in value in recent decades due to the quality of wood, which cannot be reproduced. Investors seek me out to find instruments that match their price and profit expectations. I visit many workshops to source the right instrument, then handle its repair and placement in an orchestra.

Did you learn from a master luthier?

I learned from five master craftsmen during my time at Goldfuss Geigen-bau in Regensburg. The workshop manager was largely responsible for my training, but also the other master craftsmen including Mr. Goldfuss senior and junior gave me advice.

What is your advice to aspiring luthiers?

For those beginning their journey, I would recommend setting goals and letting your dreams guide you. Have fun along the way. Make sure you have two or three people who believe in you, know you well and have an interest in investing in you.

Laura Germann is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2009

Where