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Petko Petkov is a master luthier dedicated to the traditional art of violin making. From his workshop in Bulgaria, he handcrafts violins, violas, and cellos using time-honored Italian methods and carefully selected tonewoods. Each instrument is the result of deep focus, refined skill, and a pursuit of sound that is both expressive and enduring.
Trusted by professional musicians, educators, and passionate performers across the world, Petko’s instruments are known for their beautiful sound, clarity, and responsiveness. Whether commissioned by a soloist, built for a conservatory student, or crafted for chamber and orchestral use, every piece is tailored to the individual’s needs. For Petko Petkov, violin making is not just a craft — it’s a lifelong dialogue between material tonewood, maker, and music.
Discover the passion and dedication that shape every violin, viola, and cello crafted by Petko Petkov. From early inspirations in Kazanlak to international recognition, this timeline reveals the milestones of a master luthier’s lifelong pursuit of acoustic excellence and artistic mastery.
Petko Petkov was born in the picturesque town of Kazanlak in 1975. From an early age, he was drawn to activities that allowed him to create with his hands—whether crafting whistles from willow branches or carving ornaments into sticks. He did not imagine that this childhood passion would determine his future.
At 19, a life-changing encounter changed the course of his life. Petko saw a friend making a violin, and at that moment, he recognized his true calling. Captivated by the magic of this beautiful instrument, he knew he had found his path.
Petko began his professional journey at the Kremona factory in his home town, gaining foundational experience. He acquired basic knowledge and honed his skills in making musical instruments.
His true craftsmanship developed during his apprenticeship with master luthier Vladko Naydenov. Vladko, known as the best acoustic technician in Bulgaria, imparted invaluable knowledge to Petko. He learned crucial details about the acoustic setup of the instrument, such as the precise placement of the bridge and sound post, the optimal string height, and how to feel the wood to produce the best sound. Master Vladko Naydenov also taught him the importance of the age and proper cutting of the wood for superior sound quality in musical instruments.What began as an apprenticeship soon grew into a lifelong friendship—one that profoundly shaped Petko’s style and approach to his craft.
With confidence and vision, Petko opened his own workshop in Kazanlak. The early years were a blend of hard work and perseverance—tool-making, workshop setup, and building trust with his first clients. His dedication soon earned him a growing reputation among musicians.
Petko Petkov relocated his workshop to the charming village of Ovoshtnik, on the outskirts of Kazanlak, where it is still located and where he lives with his family. This workshop was featured in the “My Space” section of Strad magazine in February 2018.
Petko’s instruments are built from carefully chosen Balkan maple and spruce, prized for their rich acoustic properties. Each violin, viola, and cello comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Today, his instruments resonate in the hands of musicians across 20+ countries and 5 continents.
As a certified master luthier and member of the Bulgarian Union of Luthiers’ Management Board, Petko actively promotes the art of violin making. He regularly participates in global exhibitions like Musikmesse (Frankfurt), Music China (Shanghai), Cremona Musica (Italy), and Akustika (Nuremberg), showcasing Bulgarian craftsmanship on the world stage.
“For me, every instrument begins long before the first note is played. It starts in the forest — with the careful selection of tonewoods whose grain and character will one day carry a musician’s voice. These woods are aged for years, allowing them to develop stability and resonance. From there, each curve, each joint, each varnish layer is shaped by hand, guided by both tradition and intuition. My years at the workbench have taught me that an instrument is more than its parts — it’s a dialogue between the maker and the musician, brought to life through detail, patience, and respect for the craft.”