After studying in Milan, and graduating with top marks, Italian violin maker Gianmaria Stelzer won top prizes in multiple competitions for his instruments. After working as assistant of the late Luca Primon for three years, In 2012 he then opened his own business in Trento, focussing on set-ups, repairs and restoration, with a little making.

In 2015, Gianmaria started his time here at Ihle Violins, working for Philip part time, assisting in making copies of the fine Classical Cremonese instruments. During the years 2015-2020 Gianmaria continued to divide his time between his own business and working for Philip. Shortly after, in 2021 Gianmaria opened his new workshop in Zurich, where he now focusses on new making.