Before opening his own workshop with Agnès Saumagne, Nicolas underwent rigorous training in multiple countries which introduced him to fine restoration.
He keeps himself in the know of the latest violin making techniques to ensure world-class restoration standards.
Nicolas' career path:
Nicolas passed his professional certificate in 1989 at the national school of violin making of Mirecourt, the cradle of French violin making
Noticed by Yann Strick, he then perfected his craft in Brussels, first as a workman and then as a foreman
He then assisted Madame Biteur, violin maker in Paris, in sales, tonal adjustments and restoration
Recruited in the international team of Marcel Richters in Bremen, his dexterity promptly stood out and he earnt the priviledge to work on the most prestigious instruments, including from the long classical Italian period
Nicolas undertook a restoration mission on a Grancino cello
This affiliation enables countless exchanges with his colleagues and expands his horizon
He opens his own workshop in 1996 with Agnes Saumagne, bow maker, in a bright and inspiring location
In 2008, the values of the Saumagne Workshop are rewarded by this prize inspired by the 'national living treasures' of Japan