Marinos Glitsos, Luthier

I am a professionally trained luthier residing in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

My father was a Greek immigrant and a master carpenter. My mother, while not a musician herself, encouraged my siblings and me to study classical music from a very young age.

I studied the cello for many years, and went on to complete a degree in music performance.

After earning my undergraduate degree I was fortunate to apprentice with internationally renowned lute maker Daniel Larson. It was here that I was first introduced to violin making and developed the foundation of my tool skills.

After serving a two year apprenticeship in his shop I was accepted to the prestigious Violin Making School of America where I studied under award winning violin maker Sanghoon Lee.

Upon graduating from violin making school I was invited to spend the next two years working alongside luthier John Waddle where I worked directly with some of the finest examples of both historical and contemporary instruments.

During this time I was involved in the ongoing CT research done by radiologist Dr. Steve Sirr who pioneered the use of CT scanning in the study of fine violins.

I was then asked to join esteemed luthier and restorer Peter Bingen at the Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop where I provided expert setup and tonal adjustments for more than five years.

I have since dedicated my energy solely to the construction of new violins, violas, and cellos which I create in my Saint Paul workshop.

 

 

 
 

Pam, Workshop Assistant

My primary focus is devoted to the constant improvement of workshop morale whilst ensuring the shop upholds its commitment to being a squirrel-free campus.