Christian Schabbon has been working in wood since 1991. He produced fine furniture as a joiner/cabinetmaker in Germany where he passed his journeyman’s examination in 1993.

In September 1999, he attended the School of Violin Making in Milan, studying construction with Luca Primon and restoration with Gabriele Negri, and he graduated in 2003 with top marks. While enrolled there, Christian was an exchange student at the Swiss School of Violin Making in Brienz. Also while at school, he made several violins, violas, and violoncellos in Cremona, while at the same time assisting Luca Primon in his workshop in Milan.

In March 2004, he started at Florian Leonhard Fine Violins Ltd., in London. He rose to the position of workshop manager, responsible for quality control, customer care, and apprentice training. He was also involved in extensive restoration of top Italian instruments.

Having been acquainted with Christopher Reuning for several years, Christian was thrilled when a restoration position opened up in 2011. He shares the approach taken at Reuning & Son Violins: to deliver outstanding results in tandem with customer care.

Now at the very top of the restoration field, Christian continues to take a conservative, ethical approach while exploring the latest materials and developing innovative techniques. He has published numerous articles in books and magazines.

In his spare time, he enjoys exploring the New England countryside with his wife and young daughter, Sophie Yuzuki.