"Dimitri Musafia is the
Stradivari of violin case makers."
(Gianfranco Berneri,
Chairman of
the Cremona City Council for the Arts, 2009)
Press conference organized by the Cremona City Council for
the Arts presenting two new Musafia cases for the Civic
Collection, donated by AXA-Art, the multinational art
insurance firm. Present were Prof. Andrea Mosconi, curator
of the Civic Collection (left) and Mr. Musafia
(center left); in the center is Prof. Gianfranco Berneri,
Chairman of the council and on the right are AXA-Art
executives. (Photo courtesy of AXA-Art)
"The best in the business."
(E-Cremona.it webzine)
"Musafia Violin cases are high quality cases made for the
violin in Cremona Italy."
(Wikipedia)
"Musafia is a researcher in the field of safe transportation
of [precious musical] instruments."
(MF
Milano Finanza Journal)
"Today Musafia is one of the world's most important
builders of violin and viola cases."
(CERSI
Research Center for Entrepreneurial Development)
"Dimitri Musafia is a man on a mission."
(Strings magazine)
"Musafia cases: the current standard for professional
violinists is manufactured in Cremona, Italy, and contains a
unumber of useful innovations."
(ehow.com, The History of
Violin Cases, entry)
Cremona Solo Violin Competition, 2008 Edition. From left to
right: Luthier M.A. Heyligers, Mr. Musafia, and Prof. Dirk
Verelst, president of the jury. Violinist Floris
Uytterhoeven of Belgium won the "Dimitri Musafia Prize". (Photo
courtesy of Love2Arts)
"The art of the violin case:
Dimitri Musafia creates violin cases that not only protect
the instrument but are extremely refined collectors' items
[...] without doubt the Stradivari of violin cases."
(Giornale
della Musica - Music Journal)
"Case manufacturing was resurrected
[in Italy] by [...] Dimitri Musafia. [...]. Musafia Cremona
Italy cases are arguably the result of more exhaustive
research [...] than any other."
(Violin Cases: History and
Development from the 17th to the 21st Century, by Dr. Glenn
P. Wood, published in the Journal of the VSA - Violin
Society of America)
"Musafia, the center of international excellence in violin
case construction."
(AXA Art magazine, published
by AXA-Art, multinational insurers)

In 2009 the Stradivari Foundation commissioned a Musafia
double violin case for 1734 "Scotland University"
Stradivari, on loan to violin virtuoso Serghej Krylov. (Photo
courtesy of Fondazione Stradivari)
"Musafia [is] one of the world's most
important artisan violin case makers. [...] The elements
which characterize Musafia cases are the highest quality,
the lifetime guarantee against defects, and the maximum
protection for the violin."
(Corriere della Sera, the leading national Italian
newspaper)
"Whatever-proof."
("Strings Magazine")
The 1715 "ex-Joachim - Cremonese", probably the most precious of all
Stradivari violins, in it's Musafia Master Series Aureum case.
"Dimitri Musafia [is] one of the
world's most accredited violin case makers."
(City of Cremona - official press
release)
"Indeed, the Musafia is the Cadillac
of cases."
("Strings")
"Dimitri Musafia, the Valentino of
violin and viola case makers,"
(La Provincia, newspaper of Cremona)
"By far the most impressive of the
cases we saw, the Musafia Master Series is every musician’s
dream."
("Strings"
review of violin cases)
"The Crème de Cremona".
("Strings")
FROM ARTISTS, COLLECTORS, AND V.I.P.

Mr. Musafia with Prince Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi. The Sheikh is nephew of the Sultan of Sharjah (UAE),
owner of one of Mr. Musafia's most elaborate works, featured
in the Giornale della Musica publication. (Photo
courtesy of L. Muchetti)
"Master Case
Maker Dimitri Musafia, It is our pleasure to send you our
best compliments and thanks for the violin case that
represents a model of genuine civilizational heritage,
outstanding unique handcraft expressing your friendly
country contribution in building and developing cultural and
civilizational relations between nations. "
(His Highness Sultan
Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, letter, Sharjah, U.A.E.)
"Dear
Dmitri, The case arrived and I am thrilled. Absolutely
beautiful!
I have a
good friend in LA who bought the Milstein Strad several
years ago that might want to order the same one. He will get
in touch."
(Margaret Batjer,
concertmistress of the L.A. Chamber Orchestra, via e-mail,
U.S.A.)

Creating the interior of the new case for the 1694 "ex-Halir"
Stradivari.
"My
daughter loves her new Musafia case. Her violin sits quite
comfortable in the tropicalized interior of the case! She
does not have to spend minutes tuning all the strings on her
violin now since it retains most of the tuning these days.
This is a dramatic change from day 1 of the new Musafia
case. All in all, it is working great for the New England
weather which has been terrible these days. The case also
looks beautiful and she says that it has attracted quite a
few compliments!"
(Sharadha Vijay, via
e-mail, U.S.A.)
"Just
wanted to thank you for the fantastic violin case which I
received before the new year! I really never anticipated for
it to look so great! Please express my gratitude and thanks
to Mr. Musafia."
(Martyn Jackson, via
e-mail, Germany)
"the
beautiful case reached! I am so happy! It ist really best quality!
My Guarneri will feel great in this case, i am sure :) [...]
Thanks also for always beeing reliable. Best wishes also for
2011 to all members of Musafia!"
(Anna Moellers, via
e-mail, Germany)

The prestigious Los Angeles dealer Hans Weisshaar
Inc. has one of the largest permanent selections of
Musafia cases, all made to enhanced instrument
protection specifications.
"I
am moved by your [...] choice of the violin case as a medium
for artistic expression. [...] I realise it is something extraordinary and
very much hand made instead of mass produced. The best
analogy [...] is comparing the interior of a
Bentley S Saloon or Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud to a BMW
7series or Mercedes S Class. Your cases has the feel of
something that is a one-off, where the individual parts are
made to fit each other perfectly [...], rather than being
[...] injection moulded. This
human imput is what I appreciate. Besides, there really is
no one else who would make cases the way you do. It is an
occasion everytime one opens or close the case.
The comparison of a
master case maker to a pregressive Luthier is very
appropriate. The way you consistently try to improve your
designs is not unlike the constant experimentation of
Stradivari during his long career. I hope that you will live
a long and prosperous life perfecting your case designs,
while receiving just accolades along the way as Stradivari
did during his lifetime.
I am sure one day people would
recognise that Musafia cases would be as collectible as
violins. Please
continue to send me emails [...] for I can see that there is
where one can find unique one-off examples of your art."
(Dr. Lawrence Yu, via e-mail,
Australia)
"Dear Mr.
Musafia, I wish to [...] express our complete
satisfaction for the case received, it's an object
of which the quality and beauty far surpasses our
expectations; for this my daughter and I will be
always grateful to you, as for the rapidity and care
with which you have satsified our request."
(Stefano Pastine, via
e-mail, Italy)

Joshua Bell owns this custom Luxury Ultralight,
which has a total of three accessory compartments to
exploit the interior space to the limit.
"I
have owned a beautiful custom made Musafia dart shaped case
for about 5 years. I love that case and I look forward to
the arrival of my new case. My [Vincenzo Postiglione] violin
travels all over the world with me. I can rest easy on long international trips as my violin is safe in the overhead bin
protected in a Musafia case. Thank you for an excellent
product!"
(Dr. LaDonna Taylor, via e-mail,
U.S.A.)
"I
absolutely love the new case! Fantastic! [...] Everything is
tight and up to your Musafia standards!"
(Micah Sherman, electric violinist, via text message,
Balearic Islands, Spain)

The violin in this photo, portrayed in its Musafia Luxury
Classic dart case, belonged to Jean Sibelius when he
composed his concerto in d minor. It is now owned by his
grand-daughter, Mrs. Satu Jalas.
"Dear
Mr Musafia, The violincase arrived today in perfect
condition. Sir, what can we say to you what isn't said
before from your customers? This violincase is one of a kind craftsmanship!!!
[...] Please continue making these cases, these are not
ordinary violincases this is Quality on lonely height."
(Klander Family, via e-mail, The Netherlands)
"I felt I must add a few words to say
how utterly delighted I am with [my Master Series Aureum]
case: it combines aesthetic beauty with engineering
excellence; and to these are added meticulous attention to
detail and superb craftsmanship. It is, indeed, nothing
less than a supreme work of art, one which I am proud to own
and which I am sure will remain a pleasure to use for many,
many years to come. Please could you also pass on my
heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved with the making of
the case?"
(Rupert Luck
M.A., M.Mus. Distinction, via e-mail, U.K.)
Eugene Fodor, Tchaikovsky and Paganini Competition winning
soloist, performing an impromptu concert at the Musafia
Cremona Italy stand in occasion of the Cremona Mondomusica
trade fair, Oct. 5, 2008 on his 1740 Guarneri del Gesù.
"[...] Among other articles on your
site were testimonials for your cases, praising them for the
protection they provided to violins which were in accidents
[...] My story is not quite so dramatic, but one that I know
you would like to hear. I love my case, have loved it ever
since I got it, and because of its construction and what it
does for my violin, I am one of Musafia's biggest fans. My
violin is a 1900 German one that had not been verywell taken
care of over the years and had already sustained a couple of
cracks before I purchased it. But it had a lovely, warm and
rich sound and, to me, that's what mattered most. [...] But
I continued to have problems with it. It was extremely
sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Each
week, in the middle of orchestra rehearsal, my violin would
go out of tune. Sometimes it took a lot of work to get it
back in tune causing a great deal of frustration and
embarrassment to me. At one dress rehearsal for a concert,
as the conductor lifted his baton, my stand partner informed
me that my violin had just sustained a 4" crack, not due to
an accident, only temperature. [...] I read and reread your
website knowing that any other brand of case wouldn't do for
me. The more I read the more I wanted to try the
tropicalization and weatherguard features so I ordered them
with my Luxury case. A miracle! My violin has not once gone
out of tune due to temperature or humidity changes since the
day it so proudly was packed into its Musafia case. Not
once. Incredible! I have always been a firm believer in
keeping it in the case to prevent any harm coming to it
while it is idle so it stays zipped in the case a good part
of each day. When I tell people about the positive effect
that the case has had, it sounds incredible even to me,
considering the trouble I used to have. The tropicalization
feature, perhaps with the help of the weatherguard, must
keep the violin at a much more consistent level so that even
when I take it out of the case in summer or winter, the wood
remains stable enough so that it doesn't change so quickly
as to cause the pegs to slip. [...] Thanks so much for
continuing to make such fine cases for the instruments we
love, I'd be delighted if you used part of my email. I've
been so happy with my case, I think everyone should have one!
(Kay Danzico, via e-mail, U.S.A.)
"Dear Mr Musafia, The case that i have
recieved a few weeks ago was absoulutley stunning. I caanot
imagine any other violin case that could be compared to the
Musafia series. Indeed your cases are the best in the world!
keep up the fantastic work. I was having a concert tour in
Germany, Italy, Austria and France in the last three weeks,
and i couldn't believe how many people commented on the case
when i opened it. I only have one word to describe the case,
just simply " Perfect". Well done!"
(David Ma, via e-mail, Australia)
"I want [a case] to last a very long time,
but I want it to look nice. In the Italian language, they
have a nice single word for this whole sentence: Musafia."
(MB,
posted on violinist.com website)
Did you know that the sales of Musafia Cases helps support
young artists get on stage? Mr. Musafia is on the Board of
Directors of the Concert Society of Cremona's Filodrammatici
Theater (established in 1674), which organizes performance
opportunities and scholarships for talented young musicians. (Photo
courtesy of E-cremona.it webzine)
"Musafia Italian cases are the first
choice for professional musicians worldwide – they are among
the best cases money can buy."
(tuhy001,
on E-bay)
"[...] I've been using my new Opus V
Master Series Aureum since a week now....what can I say....it's
practicality is unequalled...accessory boxes well-designed
and well-placed...huge music pouch...everything that one
could request...and in addition the refinement and finish
that gives honor to what is made in Italy! Bravi !"
(Pier
Paolo Riccomini, via
e-mail, Italy)
"I can't express how I felt when I saw
the case you built for my violin. Apart from your exquisite
taste in how to built the most beautifull violincases I can
imagine, you make sure that my violin's safety is your
priority. This case is very special for me. It is a long
story and maybe one day I tell you why. But for now I really
want to thank everyone who helped building my violincase. I
saw you wrapped the cremona news-paper around my violincase.
I really hope to see Cremona one day, I guess every
violonist dreams of that... "
(Gijsje
Van Grunsven, via
e-mail, France)
Dec. 20, 2007: Gala charity evening at Cremona's Ponchielli
Theater, organized by the Cremona daily La Provincia.
From left to right: Mr. Musafia, master violin maker
Fabio Volta, violinist Alessandro Ceravolo, film actress
Catherine Spaak. During the evening Mr. Musafia and Mr.
Volta donated respectively a case and violin to the young
violinist; Mrs. Spaak presented the event. (Photo
courtesy of La Provincia)
"Caro Signor Musafia, I just
received the case; it's an absolute wonder! the feel,
the touch and the quality of the materials are just
exceptional! I can only say that [my J.B.Vuillaumme,
1856] "Doria" and me are delighted! Congratulations
from all my heart for your artistry and kindness!"
(Eugen
Tichindeleanu,
via e-mail, France)
"A 6 figure violin -- I'd go
Musafia. [...] no one else that I know of allows you
to add the tropicalization (e.g. extra thermal
insulation), waterproofing (truly waterproofing the
wood so that the case will literally float),
tongue-and-groove closure, pressure ports, etc.
[...] Musafia is clearly the gold standard even for
straight up protection. And if there's any question
about environmental changes (think airplanes and the
sudden humidity and temperature changes even if you
carry the instrument on), I don't think there's any
question that Musafia cases stand head and shoulders
above all other cases."
(Ray,
posted on The Violinist internet discussion group)
Mr. Musafia lecturing on the subject of Antonio
Stradivari's violin cases, Cremona 2008. (Photo
courtesy of Dr. Fabio Perrone)
"Dear Mr Musafia, I just wanted to say
how much I love my Enigma violin case!! It's absolutely
perfect for me and very much admired. [...] Thanks once
again, With all Best WIshes, Chloe."
(Chloe Hanslip, via e-mail, U.K.)
"I was able to see the [Salvatore
Accardo by Musafia] case only Monday and [...] today I would
like to thank you for the splendid work of quality and
beauty that you have done. I was certain to have chosen well.
Thank you again."
(Matteo Amat di San Filippo, via e-mail, Italy)
"Thank you so much for the most
beautiful [custom-made] case! It's perfect! I absolutely
love it. "
(Sarah
Chang, via fax, U.S.A.)
This custom
Luxury Ultralight mod. U3012 was specially made to be as
light and as practical as possible to meet the needs of one
of the world's most distinguished soloists. The stylish
paisely satin lining and suede-like frame covering help
reduce the weight, while a low-profile extra accessory box
under the violin's neck and a special area for the shoulder
rest make the most of the compact (cm 76 x 23.5) size.
Despite this, and the addition of side impact protection,
the case weighs only 2.6 kg. (5.7 lbs.)!
"I have just received my case and I
must say that I didn't expect such beauty and precision
construction. I am ultra-satisfied and it will be a great
pleasure to promote your name among my colleagues."
(Francesco Ventura, via E-mail, Italy)
"Received the [viola] case today, and
it’s FANTASTIC. It fits perfectly, and the quality and
construction is obviously first rate. Aesthetically, it is
so beautiful, too. Thanks again for your fast and
professional service, and for a case that I am proud to own
(instead of wondering when it will fall apart.)"
(Kevin Davidson, via E-mail,
U.S.A.)
"I
just want to inform you that I received my
Dart-Shaped-Master-Series-Exclusive etui today. It is a
truly beautiful case, reflecting not only caring
craftsmanship and attention to detail, but also the personal
experience and knowledge of what today's musicians demand
from their instrument etuis. In a world where websites and
commercials tend to exaggerate and glorify products out of
proportion, your cases prove the contrary...I was already
impressed by your website photos, information,etc... but
even more impressed when I finally received the etui. The
case has exceded my expectations. [...] I also want to take
this opportunity to thank you for the first-class service I
have been granted throughout our e-mail correspondence/order/delivery,
etc... [...] Your success and accomplishments are
well-deserved. I will be proud to recommend your etuis to my
colleagues. [...]
Once again, THANK YOU
SO MUCH for the superior service and the even more superior
violin etui."
(Melanie Torres-Meissner, Assistant Principal
Second Violinist, Beethoven Orchester Bonn, via E-mail,
Germany)
AXA, a leading European insurance company with a special
branch dedicated to insuring works of art, invited Mr.
Musafia to lecture on the topic of string instrument safety,
during a convention held May 31st, 2006. (Photo courtesy
of AXA)
"Dear Dimitri, I received the case
yesterday afternoon - it is a beautiful case- exactly as you
described it [...] Your dedication to researching, creating
and manufacturing such quality case's is fantastic. Thanks
again!"
(Ian McCamy,
via E-mail, France)
"i just wanted to say that your cases
are the best that money can buy! in addition, are the best
built cases out there. [...] i have since commissioned a
new violin to be made by a master modern maker and when
finished will rest in a musafia enigma case. [...] again,
thank you for making such works of arts to protect,
transport and house other works of art. it is rare indeed in
this day and age where art is used to enclose art!"
(Ben Fung, DDS, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"Mr. Musafia: about two years ago I
purchased a Master Series E violin case from you. This case
has been the marvelous home for my wife's G.B. Ceruti ca.
1800. She couldn't be more happy with the case. Your
workmanship is extraodinary! [...] Once again, we could not
be happier with the beautiful case you made for us. We are
very proud to own both a [18th century] Ceruti [violin] and a Musafia!! We refer
fellow musicians to you often and without reservation."
(Thomas Kelley, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"Dear Dimitri - You are an ARTIST! The
cases arrived yesterday and I literally had tears in my eyes,
they are so beautiful... [...] Nobody I know is so lucky to
have 4 of your cases, so I appreciate you very much. The
Guarnerius looks incredible with the medallion fabric
[...]."
(Dr.
Pilar Bradshaw, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
Gala evening at
the Teatro Filodrammatici. Prof. Mario Vitale (left),
Director of the Conservatory of Cremona, awards scholarships
to particularly talented music students. The funds were
provided by the Cremona Kiwanis Club thanks to an initiative
by Mr. Musafia.
"I just received my Salvatore Accardo
case and it is so beautiful that it did exceeded my
expectations. It is a delight to look at! Also it gives me
lots of piece of mind to know that my violin has the best
protection.."
(Mayra Urdaz, via E-mail, Puerto
Rico)
"I just wanted to let you know that my
case is fabulous! It has exceeded my expectations and is a
credit to the exceptional quality Musafia represents. I am
looking forward to receiving case number two soon. Finally,
after many years of wishful thinking, I not only have one
Musafia creation, but two."
(Diana Iorio, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"On behalf of my family I thank you
very much for this nice piece of art."
(Igor Martynov, via E-mail, Russia)
""Gorgeous" is not a word that sufficiently describes my
reaction to [my new Musafia case], but for the moment "gorgeous"
will have to do. It is gorgeous. Exclamation mark. "
(Brooke McEldowney, violist
and syndicated cartoonist (9 Chickweed Lane), via
E-mail, USA)
"I have acquired two additional Master Series cases. I
personally feel these are the finest cases ever produced."
(Dr. Roger Shingler, via
E-mail, USA)
Dimitri Musafia being interviewed by Japanese television
during official presentation of the Salvatore Accardo by
Musafia case.
"The case finally arrived yesterday,
in perfect condition. Thank you, it is a wonderful case
indeed (much better than my old [competing brand] case!) "
(Jose Monton, via E-mail, UK)
"I think you are a true artist!"
(Jeremy vanDieman, via E-mail, Canada)
"Thank you so much, your handiwork is
magnificent and artistry much appreciated in this day and
age!"
(Milada
Keck, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"Dear Mr Musafia, I have received the
case today and would like to thank you very much. I am
delighted with the case and I think it is absolutely
fantastic. Once more many thanks."
(Djordje Gavic, via E-mail, U.K.)
"I received my beautiful Aeternum
viola case recently. It is stunning, inside and out. Because
he fits in the case so securely, and the case is strong
enough to support my weight while standing on the lid
without any deformation, I feel much safer transporting my
best friend. And there’s ample storage space for all my
accessories. My colleagues are quite envious."
(J.C. Loewe, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
Some leading Cremona makers, such as Giorgio Grisales, offer
their precious violins with specially-made Musafia cases.
"I bought two weeks ago one Aeternum
Case from one of your american dealers, during a tour in the
USA. Thanks a lot, for this marvellous case ; all is perfect,
magic, the Aeternum is every violinist's dream. Thanks again
to take care of our most precious instruments, dear Mister
Musafia."
(A.
Roncigli, Membre du Comité Directeur, Grand Prix Européen de
Violon, via E-mail, Luxembourg)
"Dear Dmitri, I received my Enigma
viola case today from [a dealer]. It is MAGNIFICENT!!!! It
is truly a work of art. My viola looks beautiful in it. I
can't stop looking at it. Thank you so much!"
(Kathleen McGee-Daly, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
from left to right: the Prefect of Cremona Dr. Iovino, the
regional governor of Kiwanis Italy Dr. Parlato, the
1996-2004 Mayor of Cremona Sen. Bodini and Dimitri Musafia,
2003-2004 President of the Cremona Kiwanis club. Kiwanis
International is an association which assists children in
need.
"I received the case a few weeks ago
and it is so beautiful!!! Wow! The workmanship is incredible.
And knowing the level of protection underneath all that
beauty is a true comfort. Thank you for keeping your
standards!"
(Mary Ann
Begbie, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"Wow, it is stunning, congratulations!! Now you have truly
made the most amazing case I have ever seen! So beautiful."
(Isabel, via E-mail, Great Britain)
From left to right, standing: the President of Yamaha Music
Trading Corp. Mr Tojo, Mr. Musafia, and Project Manager Mr.
Yamamoto, in a traditional Japanese restaurant. Yamaha Music
Trading is the exclusive distributor of Musafia products in
Japan.
"Mr. Musafia, I just wanted
to let you and all of your staff know how thrilled I am with
my new custom case. My peers and teachers were also amazed
with the beauty and craftsmanship. It is the most beautiful
case I've ever seen. Beyond the beauty, though, I also want
to tell you that I feel safer with my violins in a Musafia
case. I got so frustrated with my old case (straps
breaking, zippers breaking, cover ripping/detaching from the
wood of the case, etc) that I made the decision to buy a
quality case for the sake of my modern and baroque violins.
I tell everyone I know about your cases, and I look forward
to doing business with you again. Thank you!"
(Michelle Brians, via E-mail,
U.S.A.)
"WOW!! Thank you so much for the
beautiful job you did on my case. It is just spectacular and
is causing a sensation everywhere I go!! [...] Again, my
sincere thanks for all of your extra effort. It was so very
much worth it!"
(Ida Kavafian,
via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"I just wanted to write you a note to
say we received the case we ordered and we love it. [...]. I
am so pleased with the case. It is really great and I know
that because I shopped long and hard before ordering from
you. I saw many cases in a broad range of prices and this
one is a very good buy. The case is pretty and well put
together with lovely little details. We are very happy with
it. Many thanks for your great product!"
(Kathleen Wallace, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
Prof. Mario Vitale, Director of the Conservatory of Cremona
(left) and Mr. Musafia. Mr. Musafia organized the donation
of a violin by Stefano Conia Sr. to this institute, complete
with bow and Aeternum case, to be lent to a talented but
underprivileged student on a long-term basis.
"I ordered a Master Series E case from
you through Phil Kass at William Moennig and Son. [...] Our
beautiful case arrived last week and we couldn't be more
delighted. [...] When I ordered the case, I requested
several additional features such as tropicalization,
reinforced frame, as well as a personalized name plate.
Everything was exactly as we ordered! The care and
craftsmanship that went into the construction of this case
is evident in every aspect. This case exceeds our
expectations. [...] Thank you so much for your care and your
meticulous attention to detail. We [...] will have nothing
but wonderful thoughts of you and your wonderful craftsmen.
Again, please accept our sincere thanks and also know that
my wife's colleagues are asking about this wonderful case.
We will guide them your direction whenever possible!"
(Tom Kelley, via E-mail, U.S.A.)
"My [custom made] case arrived this
afternoon in perfect condition and on time! It is a perfect
fit for my [larger than normal] violin and is absolutely
gorgeous, I am quite delighted."
(Ed Dubois, via E-mail, Belgium)
"Today, as punctually announced, I
received the Master Series Exclusive case I ordered; with a
little emotion - I will admit it - because it had been some
time that I was desiring one [...]. The case is a veritable
jewel (my colleagues will be very jealous!), with great
attention paid to the smallest detail, and truly worthy of
your fame and professionality. My thanks to all your staff
and once again, thanks for your work!"
(Maestro Andrea Taio, via E-mail,
Italy)
With Gil
Sharon, concertmaster and artistic director of the Amati
Ensemble
"I am very happy with the new [custom
made double violin] case. It is beautiful and my wife likes
it also."
(Gil
Sharon, via E-mail, Netherlands)
Mr. Musafia, the president of Yamaha Music Trading Corp. Mr.
Tojo, and the president of the Cremona Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Cabrini in 2003.
"In Musafia I trust. I am the fifth
generation owner of the family violin. This Italian violin
has been in the family for well over 150 years. What type of
violin case do I place my trust in? Musafia, of course!"
(Reneé Olstead, via E-mail, USA)
"The violin case is delivered to my
wife in USA. She just called me and told me that the violin
case is fantastic !! She is very very satisfied with the
case. Thank you for your excellent works. Your violin cases
are always best of the best ! I hope your business being
prosperous and continues forever. I will contact you again
if I need another violin cases."
(J. Kim, via E-mail, Korea)
"I just wanted to let you know that I
received my new viola case yesterday and I am thrilled with
it. The craftsmanship is outstanding and it was well worth
the wait. (...) it will be my pleasure to spread the word to
all of the professional string players that I encounter on a
daily basis about your company and the superb quality of
your work."
(Debra Reilly,
via E-mail, USA)
"You have a fantastic product with no
competition. I will recommend your product to everyone I
know."
(Chris
Burndrett, via E-mail, USA)
"I absolutely love my Musafia violin
case. It's simply the nicest case around, anywhere I go, and
is always a topic of conversation. Mr. Musafia is also a
pleasure to deal with. Every other case feels cheap and
flimsy to me because I'm so used to the Musafia".
(Jonathan R., posted on Maestronet Internet site)
Another fine Cremona maker to offer Musafia cases with his
instruments is Maurizio Tadioli
"I thought I'd share with you guys my
recent purchase of a Musafia violin case. It is absolutely
breathtaking! I've had many cases. They are all the same.
The Musafia is incredible. WORTH THE MONEY!"
("C.B. Fiddler", posted on Maestronet Internet site)
"The Musafia cases are wonderful. Both
my son and I have them. They are works of art, but very
functional as well."
("Bubba", posted on Maestronet Internet site)
"The Musafia Master Series case offers THE BEST protection
for your instrument."
(Ludwig, posted on
Maestronet Internet site)
"These cases are "QUALITY"!! Would
never buy another kind, and I've had [cases by] J*****,
N****, etc."
(Susan,
posted on Maestronet Internet site)
Mathijs A. Heyligers, a Dutch violin maker working in
Cremona for over 25 years who caters to a professional
musician clientele, recommends that only Musafia cases be
used to protect his instruments.
"I think this is the best violin case
I have ever seen."
(Jaeil
Kim, via E-mail, South Korea)
"Musafia cases [...] are absolutely
beautiful [...] workmanship is outstanding. They are sturdy
[...] This case is tough to beat in workmanship, finish, and
practicality".
(Ben, posted
on Maestronet Internet site)
"I thank you truly for your generous [double
case] which will offer the possibility of transporting
together [Paganini's] two violins, as by the [safety]
specifications indicated during by the Technical Commission
[...]."
(Mayor Dr.
Adriano Sansa, City of Genoa, letter)
Newsarticle regarding the new Musafia case for Paganini's
1742 del Gesù "the Cannon", as appeared in the Genoa daily
"Secolo XIX"
"Your magnificent violin case has been
exhibited [...], during the entire Competition creating
general admiration."
(Pierre-Yves Tribolet, Director, Tibor Varga Violin
Competition, Switzerland, letter)
DEALERS AND LUTHIERS
"Excellent
cases - a lifetime investment and a lovely thing to own."
(Martin
McClean, posted on the violinist.com discussion forum, U.K.)
"I think you are real
innovators- your cases are the best by far."
(Hammond
Ashley Violins, U.S.A., e-mail)
"Thank you for the cases you have sent
us. They are absolutely beautiful."
(Atelier Paganini, Czech Republic, e-mail)
"The quality is really convincing."
(Renata Koeckert Streichinstrumente, W. Germany, fax)
Dario Segala, a member of the Parma Violin Makers'
Association and winner of numerous prizes, is happy to offer
Musafia cases with his instruments.
"The Musafia violin case is really
beautiful".
(Sirena Co.
Ltd, Japan, fax)
" I am very pleased and not surprised
that there has been such interest in the [Musafia] Portfolio
cases. [...] In short, I think they look great, so keep it
up."
(Philip
Kass, Wm. Moennig & Son, USA, fax)
"I would like to thank you and tell
you how much I am happy to be one of your clients."
(Jean Noel Rybicki, Switzerland, fax)
"The quality of your case comes up to
my expectations."
(Kunio Mori, Japan, fax)
Loeiz Honoré, a
foremost violin maker in Cremona, together with Mario
Brunello and Mstlav Rostropovich. The latter two selected a
cello (pictured) by Mr. Honoré as the best- sounding among a
series of contemporary celli tried out for purchase by an
important foundation. Mr. Honoré has endorsed Musafia cases
since their introduction in 1983.
"We recently received an order of your
cases and are quite pleased with them. We would like to
order [more]..."
(Spruce Tree
Music & Repair, USA, letter)
"[...] your cases are really getting a
good response here in the States. So I am sure that this is
just the beginning of a great business relationship."
(Machold Rare Violins, USA, fax)
"Thank you so much for your recent
shipment. As usual, the cases are beautiful. We received
seven of the nine ordered and are very happy with them."
(Lake & Wilson Fine Violins, USA, fax)
"Thank you for the recent shipment of
cases; they were fine."
(Kamimoto
String Instruments, USA, fax)
Ishii Takashi,
maker of the viola pictured, commissioned a special case for
it. Both are now in the possession of the Emperor of Japan.
"It has been a pleasure selling your
cases. [Our] shop has sold [only] Musafia cases since last
March."
(Rafael
Carrabba, USA, fax)
"Your cases are becoming popular in
Los Angeles! [...] I look forward to continuing expansion of
our business relationship!"
(Thomas Metzler Violin Shop, USA, letter)
"Your cases are, on the whole, very
beautiful and people really notice them."
(Robert Cauer, USA, fax)
"Thank you, first of all, for the
beautiful cases on my last shipment."
(Foster's Violin Shop, USA, letter)
"I am pleased and impressed with the
fine workmanship, design and materials."
(John Harrison Violinmaker, USA, letter)
Correspondence reproduced from
Musafia Italia S.r.l. files. All statements are from clients
who received Musafia cases and were not solicited for
publicity purposes.
NEWSPAPER AND MAGAZINE
ARTICLES
"Ida
Kavafian's most important piece of gear is her gorgeous
custom-made Musafia, complete with purple silk lining, which
[she] chose personally. Indeed, the Musafia is the Cadillac
of cases, [full description follows]."
(String Magazine,
December 2004 issue)
"COME BACK WITH THAT CASE! Anyone
stealing instrument cases belonging to the Dutch National
Musical Instrument Foundation will be easy to spot from now
on: the organization has commissioned a special series of
cases in distinctive colors that marks them as the
foundation’s property. A brass plate inside the Musafia case
identifies the foundation and a special feature means that
standard [replacement] case covers do not fit the cases,
making them harder to disguise. "(The
Strad – News & Events section, December 2003)
Naomi Sadler,
at the time editor of Strad Magazine, and Mr. Musafia at the
Amati 500 concert in Maastricht (Netherlands). Mr. Musafia
assisted with the organization of the event, which saw 17
Amatis (violins, violas, including celli and a double bass)
in concert together for the first time in over two centuries,
in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of
Andrea Amati, inventor of the violin.
"[Dimitri Musafia] creates luxurious
and refined cases for the Gotha of the international concert
scene, starting from Salvatore Accardo. [...] Now
Cremona-made craftmanship brings the world of high fashion
to violins, thanks to a joint-venture between Musafia and
Roberta di Camerino, one of the most prestigious names in
Italian style. [...]"
(news article, La Provincia, newspaper of Cremona, 3 October
2003)
"THE CRÈME DE
CREMONA.
A CASE FOR THE VIOLIN THAT HAS
EVERYTHING. For the past 20 years, Musafia Italia of
Cremona, Italy has made high-quality cases for violin and
viola, and the new Enigma model incorporates all of that
experience and more. Appointed with an exquisite silk and
satin velvet lining, [full list of features follows],
the Enigma bespeaks luxury. But the beauty of this case is
more than skin deep." [exhaustive technical description
follows].
(Strings
– New Products – Workbench section, August/September 2003)
"LUXURY
SURROUNDINGS: Celebrating 20 years in the violin industry,
Musafia has introduced the Enigma case, one of it’s most
exclusive cases ever. [full description follows]"
(The Strad – What's New
section, August 2003)
"CREMONA
MOVES: Musafia, the Cremona case maker, has doubled the size
of it’s operations and has moved to larger premises. […] The
expansion has been caused by a growth in orders for bespoke
cases.[…]."
(The
Strad – News & Events section, April 2003)
"A new case for the violins of
Paganini [...] The exclusive work designed by [...] Dimitri
Musafia - noted for having supplied his creations to the
world's most famous soloists [...] as well as the Emperor of
Japan - has a thermo-hygrometric control of the microclimate
within the case and a suspension system against bumps and
vibrations. [...] The case has the interior lining in silk
with an exclusive pattern, the color of which contains 12
variations on the color of the violin itself. [...]"
(news article, Il Secolo XIX, newspaper of Genoa, 21
March 1998)
"A thermally insulated case for the
violins of Paganini [...] The two violins preferred by
Paganini won't have anything to worry about during transport,
not even differences in climate. [...] [The case] has a
sophisticated thermo-hygrometric control of the microclimate
within the case and a suspension system against bumps and
vibrations. [...]"
(news
article, Il Giornale, national newspaper, 21 March 1998)
"Violins in D.O.C. cases - after the
Stradivari 1715, Musafia's work [commissioned] for the two
Guarneri del Gesù violins of the museum of Genoa" [...] 'The
case which I delivered is the fruit of 15 years of research.
It is not only useful, in fact it is lined in high fashion
fabrics, a silk print which I myself contributed in the
design.' [...]"
(news article,
La Provincia, newspaper of Cremona, 21 March1998)
"When the violin case becomes art
[...] 'We were the first in Europe to make a specific
instrument suspension system to guard against impact, to use
a humidifying system [...] The latest innovation is the use
of high fashion fabrics for the interior' [...]"
(Interview of Dimitri Musafia, La Gazzetta della Musica,
issue February 1998)
"[Paganini's Guarneri 1742 the] 'Cannon'
gets a new case. [...] specially built by Musafia of
Cremona. Commissioned by the City of Genoa, the case is
lined in colour-print velvet, and includes thermal
insulation, four-point suspension and humidity control.
[...]"
(magazine
article, The Strad, issue October 1997)
"A precious 'dress' for the violins of
the Civic Collection. The stylist Dimitri Musafia [...] one
of the most accredited violin case makers in the world,
provided yersterday a violin case with the highest
technology available to the City of Cremona. It will be used
for the transport of the Stradivari Cremonese 1715 and the
other masterpieces of the Civic Collection. It has a
suspension system to guard against bumps, a control system
for temperature and humidity, and is "tropicalized", in
other words decreases inside temperature changes by 60%.
[...] Precious also aesthetically, [the case] has lining in
silk velvet and Alcantara, while the metal fixtures are in
gold-laminate. [...] Musafia cases with the same
characteristics have been ordered by violinists as famous as
Accardo, Ughi, Mintz and Stern."
(news article, La Provincia, newspaper of Cremona, 3
October 1996)
"Violin-making with a following wind -
with a racing sailboat sponsored by a Cremonese industry.
[...] [Musafia Italia S.r.l.] is a unique company which [produces
violin cases] for VIPs of the music world, such as Uto Ughi
and Salvatore Accardo. [...]"
(news article, Il Giorno, national newspaper, 28 April
1996)
"[The violin offered to the National
Museum of Music of Havana, Cuba] had a case specially made
by Dimitri Musafia with a series of new safety features able
to protect the instrument both during transport and against
the particular climatic conditions present in the region.
The exterior, of white color, is made with a patented
material which reflects infrared light rays, and covers a
special sandwich of insulation panels which blocks the
absorbtion of eventual unreflected heat rays; [thermometer
and hygrometer] monitor the safety zone in which the
instrument is in with respect to the outside [of the case]."
(news article, Liuteria [official publication of the
Association of Italian Violin Making], September-October
issue, 1989)
"A special violin case with
thermo-hygrometric control system and safety lock was
commissioned to Dimitri Musafia [by the International
Violin-making School of Cremona] for the viola offered to
the Prince of Japan."
(news
article, Mondo Padano newspaper, 20 October 1986)
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