Nuremberg – On 24 March 2026, the Bavarian Council of Ministers decided to enter the cultural expression “Artisanal violin and bow making” into the Bavarian State Register as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and proposed its inclusion in the national register to preserve the craft. German violin and bow making has been recognised as a cultural asset worthy of protection, and the Bavarian State Government will take appropriate measures to protect and promote it.
The German Music Council, which actively supported the motion, makes it clear that violin and bow making makes a significant contribution to the preservation of the world’s cultural heritage and to cultural diversity. A vibrant music scene – encompassing both amateur and professional musicians – relies on high-quality instruments from these workshops, as well as expert repair and restoration services.
Master violin maker Konrad Kohlert, Head of the Violin Making Department at the Federal Guild Association for Musical Instrument Craftsmanship, explains what makes this craft so special: “Both violin making and bow making are demanding, artistic crafts that require not only a high degree of fine motor skill but also a keen sense of form and a good ear. The ability to synergistically combine traditional woodworking, a profound understanding of art and sound, and knowledge of physics results in a unique handcrafted string instrument, which, incidentally, would not function without the accompanying bow; this is why violin and bow making must always be viewed as symbiotically interdependent.”
The background to the inclusion of “Traditional Violin and Bow Making” as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Bavarian State Register will be presented on 24 April at the Trade Fair for Music akustika in Nuremberg. On the Soloists’ Stage in Hall 7A, the applicant, master violin maker Konrad Kohlert, will explain the technical background and be available to answer questions.
About akustika Nuremberg
akustika Nuremberg will take place from 24 to 26 April at Messe Nürnberg. Over 250 exhibitors from 24 countries will be showcasing the diversity of handcrafted instrument making at akustika; the fair is growing and will now, for the first time, also occupy Hall 7A. The product ranges at akustika include handcrafted acoustic instruments, such as brass and woodwind instruments, plucked and stringed instruments, upright pianos, grand pianos and organs, as well as accordions, percussion, sheet music and accessories. The major brands in the instrument sector, as well as renowned instrument makers from all over the world, are represented.
akustika is the only industry platform of this scope in Europe and attracts musicians of all levels – from music students and amateur ensembles to professionals – as well as instrument makers and retailers. Admission to the concerts (during the fair’s opening hours) is included in the akustika tickets. For trade visitors, such as music retailers, there are separate VIP Business tickets offering an expanded range of specialist content and additional networking events. Trade fair tickets are available at the early bird price until 13 April.