My journey
MÉLANIE KALTENBACH : Over 25 years of experience as a luthier.
Melanie Kaltenbach is above all a love story between a musician and antique string instruments. Indeed, my passion for violins and cellos drove me to learn more about their crafting and maintenance in order to assist novice or experienced musicians in their art. With 40 years of practice and 25 years of working in my luthier workshop, I have mastered every aspect of string instrument design and repair, enabling me to offer you quality products. I am dedicated to making my expertise available to musicians, allowing them to express themselves directly through their violin or cello.
2025: Jury Member at the Ateliers d’Art de France Competition 2025
2024: Jury Member at the 2024 International Cello Competition "Tremplin"
Highlighting the creative richness and excellence of craftsmanship throughout the Île-de-France region.
2023: Partnership with the Philharmonie de Paris
Active member in the organization of the ALADFI continuing education campus for luthiers in Villefavard.
2022: Awarded the "Transmission of Know-How" Prize by the Bureau of Design, Fashion and Crafts of the City of Paris.
2018: Resident Luthier at La Seine Musicale for the Académie Jaroussky
2017: Holder of the maintenance contract for musical instruments in the municipal conservatories of Paris
Member of Trio Musicae (Ensemble Musicae)
2012 – Present: Collaborative work with Proquartet
2009: Sound Quality Award at the Viola à Paris competition
2006: Winner of the Rotary Club of Paris Arts and Crafts Competition
1996–1999: Trained by Patrick Robin
