My journey

MÉLANIE KALTENBACH – Master Luthier in Paris

Over 25 years of experience dedicated to string instruments.

Mélanie Kaltenbach’s story is, above all, a love affair between a passionate musician and fine string instruments. Her deep passion for the violin and cello led her to devote herself entirely to their making, restoration, and maintenance — with one goal in mind: to help every musician, whether amateur or professional, find their true sound.

With over 40 years of musical practice and 25 years of experience in violin making, she masters every stage of string instrument design and repair. In her lutherie workshop in Paris, Mélanie Kaltenbach combines artisanal precision, attentive listening, and acoustic excellence to create unique and long-lasting instruments.

My expertise is at the service of musicians. Every violin or cello should allow its performer to express themselves fully — with confidence and emotion.

Distinctions & Awards

• 2024 – Winner of the “Révélateur des savoir-faire et de l’excellence des métiers d’art” program in Île-de-France
• 2022 – “Savoir-faire in Transmission” Award, granted by the Bureau du Design, de la Mode et des Métiers d’Art of the City of Paris
• 2009 – Sound Quality Award at the Viola Competition in Paris
• 2006 – Winner of the Rotary Club of Paris Fine Craftsmanship Competition

Collaborations & Commitments

• 2025 – Jury member at the Ateliers d’Art de France Competition
  • Active participation in the Cellopro summer workshops and the VIBRE event at La Seine Musicale in Paris.
• 2024 – Jury member at the “Tremplin” International Cello Competition
• 2023 – Partnership with the Philharmonie de Paris
  • Active member of the ALADFI continuous training campus for luthiers in Villefavard (Qualiopi certified)
• 2018 – Official luthier for La Seine Musicale, Jaroussky Academy
• 2017 – Awarded the instrument maintenance contract for the municipal conservatories of Paris
• 2012 – Present – Ongoing collaboration with Proquartet
• Member of Trio Musicae (Ensemble Musicae)
• 1996 – 1999 – Training with luthier Patrick Robin

Education & Qualifications

• First Prize in Cello and Chamber Music (Conservatory)
• Sound Quality and Instrument Making Award for contemporary creations (2009, viola)
• Graduate of the Newark School of Violin Making (United Kingdom) — Upper Merit

The Violin Making Workshop in Paris

The workshop of Mélanie Kaltenbach, located in Paris, is dedicated to the repair, restoration, rental, and sale of violins, violas, and cellos. Each instrument is handled with the utmost care, respecting both traditional craftsmanship and modern acoustic standards.

Musicians benefit from personalized support, attentive listening, and tailor-made services designed to bring out the full richness of their instrument’s sound.

Visit the workshop to discover exceptional craftsmanship and share your passion for your instrument.