Ivan Bruna is an Italian classical guitar maker based in Rosignano Marittimo, near Livorno in Tuscany. Trained at the Civic School of Luthiery in Milan – where he now teaches – and the first apprentice of Enrico Bottelli, he builds traditional guitars inspired by Hermann Hauser I and the Spanish masters. GSI is Ivan's only dealer in the USA.
At a Glance
- Nationality: Italian
- Workshop: Rosignano Marittimo (Livorno), Tuscany, Italy
- Training: Civic School of Luthiery, Milan (where he now teaches)
- Apprenticeship: Enrico Bottelli, Voghera (his first apprentice)
- Influences: Hermann Hauser I; Torres, Esteso, García
- US dealer: GSI (only US dealer)
From Milan to Bottelli's Workshop
In our opinion, Ivan Bruna is one of the great talents on the Italian guitar-making scene today. His love of the arts, music and craftsmanship led him, at just over twenty, to dedicate himself to guitar making, and he enrolled at the prestigious Civic School of Luthiery in Milan, where he now teaches. After completing his studies, he went on to the workshop of Enrico Bottelli in Voghera, becoming Bottelli's first apprentice – many other very talented luthiers have followed since – and honing and refining his skills.
A Workshop in Tuscany
Ivan later set up his workshop in Rosignano Marittimo, near Livorno in Tuscany, where he builds traditional instruments with particular attention to the beauty of the details and to exceptional materials. His inspiration comes primarily from Hermann Hauser I and the Spanish luthiers Torres, Esteso and García. Today he balances his professional life between teaching and building guitars.
Sound and Playability
Like his mentor Bottelli, Ivan has a sound that recalls Hauser I: piano-like clarity in every register, precise balance and a vast color palette, with an anchored fundamental and transparent overtones in each note. He seeks round trebles and bodied basses, maximizes dynamic range through his treatment and doming of the soundboard, and his guitars are known for being extremely comfortable to play.
Video: Ivan Bruna Talks About His Guitar
FAQ
Where is Ivan Bruna's workshop?
In Rosignano Marittimo, near Livorno in Tuscany, Italy.
Who trained Ivan Bruna?
He studied at the Civic School of Luthiery in Milan and was Enrico Bottelli's first apprentice.
Where can I buy an Ivan Bruna guitar in the USA?
GSI is Ivan's only dealer in the USA.
Ivan's guitars have been coming to GSI since 2023. You'll find guitars currently in stock by clicking the "Guitars In Stock" button in the header of this page as well as earlier examples in our Museum by clicking the "Guitars In Museum" button.
