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Oakland School

Ignazio Argento

Oakland, b. 1917

Ignazio Argento (b. 1917) was an American amateur violin and bow maker from Oakland, California, who began his craft after retiring in 1975. A pupil of Niels Van Valkenburgh, he is known for making 36 violins, six violas, and three bows, primarily using Stradivari and Guarneri models with commercially prepared oil varnish.

Worked Oakland
Taught by Niels Van Valkenburgh

Maker Overview

Life

Ignazio Argento (1917-Unknown) was born in 1917 in Oakland, California, USA. According to The Brompton's Book of Violin & Bow Makers by John Dilworth, he was a musician who transitioned into an amateur maker following his retirement in 1975. He received instruction from Niels Van Valkenburgh.

Characteristics

Models
Ignazio Argento crafted instruments based on Stradivari and Guarneri models.
Varnish
He utilized commercially prepared oil varnish for his instruments.
Output
Argento is credited with producing 36 violins, six violas, and three bows.
Recorded labels
  • Ignazio Argento
    N.. 19..John Dilworth
  • N
    Oakland, CaliforniaJohn Dilworth

Influence and legacy

  • Mentorship: Ignazio Argento was a pupil of Niels Van Valkenburgh.
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Biographies

The overview above is drawn from the following published accounts. Read them in the original:

John Dilworth+

ARGENTO, Ignazio Born 1917 Oakland, California USA. Musician and amateur maker since retirement 1975. Pupil of Niels Van Valkenburgh. Stradivari and Guarneri models using commercially prepared oil varnish. Credited with 36 violins, six violas, and three bows. Ignazio Argento / N.. 19.. N / Oakland, California [Wenberg]

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