Villeneuve. Florian Bandi, the luthier who draws inspiration from different cultures

It's at the foot of the fir trees and in the heart of the vineyards in the heights of the village of Le Perréon that you'll find Florian Bandi's workshop. Originally from the Var region, Florian Bandi discovered the craft through his encounters with luthiers, artisans, and diverse cultures. "In 2014, I discovered the craft from a luthier who had just set up shop. I was able to spend my summer vacation carrying out my first repairs in his workshop," recalls the artist.

Trained in carpentry and cabinetmaking (CAP), he then trained at Itemm (European Technological Institute for Music Professions) as an assistant technician for musical instruments (Atim). Thanks to musicians from India, Iran, Kashmiri repertoires, and Dhrupad chants, the luthier discovered a musical universe and an approach to the music of the instrument. "It touched me deeply. It even changed my way of seeing the world," confides the Varois.

For Florian Bandi, the instrument is an extension of oneself. "It's like a friend who helps you enter the vast and rich universe of improvisation of the heart, connecting with something greater than oneself," he explains. While he makes instruments, the luthier also offers repair and maintenance services for your musical instruments. "I repair instruments that have a history to allow them to continue to sing." "I want to honor the tree through its material, and make tangible what was once only a dream," concludes Florian Bandi.

His work can be discovered on Thursday, July 3rd in Villeneuve, on Thursdays in July. Contact by phone or email: [email protected]