discover Fratelli Ruffatti
While it's a rarity in organ building, at Fratelli Ruffatti, we take immense pride in our distinctive approach: crafting every single pipe ourselves. This unwavering commitment grants us an unparalleled level of command over the quality of materials and the intricacies of the manufacturing process. Consequently, we wield the power to tailor the sound of our instruments to perfection.
This unique capability sets us apart from the norm, especially in a landscape where many rely on catalog-sourced pipes. The inherent limitations of selecting pipes from a vast catalog, no matter how extensive, pale compared to the creative freedom and precision we attain through our hands-on pipe crafting. At Fratelli Ruffatti, we believe that true artistry emerges when every element of an instrument is carefully shaped and honed to achieve its fullest potential, resulting in genuinely exceptional organs in every way.
Our Community
Every Fratelli Ruffatti organ is a captivating masterpiece unto itself. Our approach is to conceive and craft instruments of unparalleled versatility, seamlessly intertwining the iconic tones that have elevated Italian organ craftsmanship to legendary status with a rich tapestry of sounds drawn from diverse organ traditions spanning the globe. This distinctive fusion expands our tonal palette and serves as a boundless source of inspiration, elevating musical performances and igniting the spark of creativity in musicians and audiences alike.
the ruffatti history
the origins
In the 18th century, Venice gave rise to a distinct style of organ building, laying the foundation for what we now know as the Ruffatti tradition. Starting our journey in Padova, Italy, where our organ-building legacy began, we've since ventured to all six continents, creating esteemed organs. Over the last fifty years, we've also delved into the meticulous restoration of historical organs in Italy and worldwide. We use advanced techniques to ensure these valuable instruments regain their original functionality and tonal authenticity.
The Ruffatti Story
Our journey begins in Padova, Italy, a city steeped in the rich tradition of organ building since the Middle Ages. In the 1700s, a distinctive school of organ building emerged in Venice, pioneered by Pietro Nacchini and carried forward by renowned successors like Gaetano Callido. The unique traits of this school serve as the cornerstone of the Ruffatti tradition.
In 1940, three brothers, Alessio, Antonio, and Giuseppe Ruffatti, established "Famiglia Artigiana Fratelli Ruffatti" – Ruffatti Brothers, Family of Artisans – which remains our company's full and original name to this day. Fratelli Ruffatti earned an excellent reputation within a short span, crafting hundreds of instruments.
Since our inception, we've broadened our horizons, creating prestigious instruments for regions spanning Northern Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and Australia. We proudly installed over fifty large and medium-sized instruments in the competitive North American market, surpassing other European firms. In Italy alone, Ruffatti has crafted more than five hundred instruments.
Fratelli Ruffatti pioneered Italy during the early 1960s when we started crafting new mechanical action organs. This choice was considered unconventional and radical back then, not just in Italy but worldwide. We remain committed to building and refining mechanical and electric action organs today.
This tradition endures with the second generation of Ruffatti brothers, Piero and Francesco, who have been partners in the firm since 1968, following in the footsteps of their father, Antonio.
antonio ruffatti
co-founder (1912-2001)
This enduring tradition continues today with the second generation of Ruffatti brothers, Piero and Francesco. They joined the firm as partners in 1968, following in the footsteps of their father, Antonio.
THE RUFFATTI FAMILY
piero ruffatti
francesco ruffatti
francesco ruffatti
At just 25 years old, Piero Ruffatti joined the firm as a partner, contributing to installing and designing new instruments. He now leads the design department, overseeing manufacturing while emphasizing technical innovation, safety, environmental considerations, and stringent quality control. Piero's extensive involvement in the industry
At just 25 years old, Piero Ruffatti joined the firm as a partner, contributing to installing and designing new instruments. He now leads the design department, overseeing manufacturing while emphasizing technical innovation, safety, environmental considerations, and stringent quality control. Piero's extensive involvement in the industry includes two terms as President of the Italian Organbuilders Association and Vice-President of the International Society of Organbuilders. Additionally, he has shared his expertise by teaching at the Italian Organbuilder's School of Crema.
francesco ruffatti
francesco ruffatti
francesco ruffatti
We believe that music is for everyone, regardless of age, skill level, or background. Our goal is to make it as easy and affordable as possible for anyone to start playing an iAt the young age of 23, Francesco Ruffatti joined the firm as a partner. His specialization lies in the tonal aspects of our work, where he excels as a reed and flu
We believe that music is for everyone, regardless of age, skill level, or background. Our goal is to make it as easy and affordable as possible for anyone to start playing an iAt the young age of 23, Francesco Ruffatti joined the firm as a partner. His specialization lies in the tonal aspects of our work, where he excels as a reed and flue voicer. As the company's tonal designer, he puts the finishing touches on the sound of many new Ruffatti organs. Francesco also takes charge of the tonal finishing in most of our historic restorations. His expertise extends globally as an esteemed lecturer on the subject.
Francesco has served two terms as President of the Italian Organbuilders Association and has dedicated several years to teaching at the Italian Organbuilder's School of Crema.nstrument and experiencing the joy of music.
michela ruffatti
francesco ruffatti
michela ruffatti
Michela Ruffatti, armed with a degree in architecture, embarked on a seven-year journey in London, England, where she honed her skills at prestigious, globally recognized architectural firms. In 2004, she returned to join the Fratelli Ruffatti team, focusing on design and manufacturing oversight.
Our visit to the factory
In September 2024, we visited the renowned Fratelli Ruffatti in Padova, Italy, for a captivating factory tour and an insightful conversation with the Ruffatti family. I was thoroughly impressed by the level of craftsmanship and dedication that goes into their work. From carefully selecting wood and the intricate process of melting metal to craft the finest organ pipes to assembling the various components and testing the sound quality, the attention to detail at Ruffatti is unmatched. They prioritize quality over speed, devoting significant time and effort to creating world-class organs. Clearly, they take immense pride in their products, ensuring each one is built to perfection. Many thanks to Michela, Francesco, and Piero for generously showing us around the factory and Padova.