Paolo Coriani

Paolo Coriani is a renowned Italian luthier from Modena, active since the 1970s. After training at the Masetti Workshop, he founded his own atelier in 1984, creating classical guitars inspired by José Ramírez and Masaru Kohno. Encounters with Torres instruments and Daniel Friederich deeply influenced his work, blending traditional Spanish craftsmanship with modern acoustic research. Coriani’s guitars are celebrated for their warmth, depth, and refined precision, earning him multiple international awards and recognition as one of Italy’s most respected makers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classical Guitars

How do I choose the right classical guitar for my level?

Choosing the right classical guitar depends on your playing level, musical goals, and budget. Beginners benefit from studio-model guitars from renowned workshops, while advanced players and professionals often choose a handmade master guitar. We are happy to advise you personally and can send detailed sound samples and videos on request.

What is the difference between a master guitar and a studio guitar?

Master guitars are built entirely by hand in the workshop of a single luthier, using only high-quality, well-aged tonewoods. Studio guitars are made in small series, often under the supervision of the master luthier, and offer excellent value for students and ambitious amateur players.

Can I try a classical guitar at home for 14 days?

Yes — every guitar you purchase from us comes with a 14-day home approval period. This complimentary trial applies worldwide to all orders, whether you are in Germany, Europe, the USA, Asia or anywhere else. We ship your instrument fully insured in a high-quality case so you can play it under your own acoustic conditions. If the guitar is not the right one for you, simply send it back and receive a full refund of the purchase price.

Can I try a classical guitar before purchasing?

Absolutely. You are warmly invited to visit our showroom in Karlsruhe, Germany, and test the instruments at your leisure. We are happy to schedule a personal appointment. If a visit is not possible, we send detailed videos and sound samples, and offer extensive consultation by phone or video call.

What payment methods and financing options do you offer?

We accept bank transfer, PayPal, major credit cards, and Klarna. For high-value instruments, we offer individual installment plans on request. Please contact us directly — we will find a suitable solution for every budget.

How do I properly care for my classical guitar?

A classical guitar requires constant humidity between 45 and 55 percent. Store the instrument in its case with a humidifier, avoid direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations. Change the strings regularly and clean the guitar with a soft microfiber cloth.

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Paolo Coriani – Luthier from Italy

Paolo Coriani is a highly respected Italian luthier who began his career in 1975 at the Masetti Workshop in Modena, completing his apprenticeship in 1980. In 1984, he established his own workshop, where he initially built hurdy-gurdies and classical guitars inspired by the designs of Kohno and José Ramírez.

His professional journey led him to France, where he met Christian Aubin, a concert guitarist and luthier renowned for his copies of the 1867 Torres guitar. Coriani described his first encounter with a Torres as a revelation—he was struck by its depth of tone and the exceptional craftsmanship involved in its restoration. This meeting became a turning point in his career, sparking his fascination with Spanish guitars of the late 19th century and inspiring extensive research into their construction.

Over the years, Coriani expanded his expertise, studying different building techniques to develop a comprehensive concept of guitar construction. In Paris, he was deeply influenced by the meticulous work of Daniel Friederich, studying every stage of the building process to refine his own methods. Collaborating with Richard Schneider and Dr. Michael Kasha allowed him to explore scientific approaches to guitar construction and integrate them into his practice.

In 1993, Coriani attended a course by José Luis Romanillos on traditional Spanish guitar-making techniques, reigniting his appreciation for the craftsmanship of late 19th- and early 20th-century Spanish instruments. While grounded in tradition, his work incorporates the precision and insight of modern luthiery, achieving a perfect harmony between heritage and innovation.

Paolo Coriani has received numerous awards for his outstanding craftsmanship, including 3rd Prize at the 1984 Bagnacavallo Young Luthiers Competition for a hurdy-gurdy, 1st Prize for a classical guitar at the 1986 Bagnacavallo National Competition, and both the 1st Prize and the “Baveno” Award at the 1st International Classical Guitar Making Competition in Baveno (1993).