Etienne Pavie grew up in his father’s workshop, where he began at a very early age to learn both the cello and the use of luthier’s tools. He graduated from the world-renowned Newark School of Violin Making in England in 2013. In 2014, he joined Stringers in London, where he refined his skills in restoration and setup under Colin Cross and Sarah Beaton, and became assistant workshop manager in 2016. In 2017, he joined his father Jean Pavie’s workshop at 47 rue de Rome. In 2022, he took over the family business. Passionate about antique instruments, he is internationally recognized for his expertise in high-level restoration and tonal adjustment. A dedicated cellist, he regularly performs in orchestras and with the Fleury quartet and quintet.

From a very young age, Carole Alcalay developed a passion for music. She joined a specialized music program (CHAM) in piano and violin at the Clermont-Ferrand conservatory during primary and secondary school. Holding a Master’s degree in Applied Foreign Languages for business and communication, and being trilingual, she worked alongside the management of major companies in various sectors before successfully transitioning into the profession she is passionate about today. Carole graduated with honors from the Mirecourt School of Violin Making in 2025. She further trained with Jean-Michel Desplanche, Claire Mollimard, and François Varcin. She joined the workshop in 2025, where she applies her talent to the restoration of antique instruments, as well as setup and assembly work.

It all began with Jean Pavie who, after training with master luthiers in Paris and Cremona, such as Jacques Camurat and Francesco Bissolotti, opened his first workshop in Paris in 1972. He then continued his activity in Orléans and again in Paris, on rue de Rome, and for 30 years on Quai de la Tournelle facing Notre-Dame. In 2015, he moved his activity to 47 rue de Rome, the current address. Having passed away a few years ago, he left behind a legacy of expertise and vision that continue to guide us today.

FRANCE INTER rebroadcast a 1987 program from Chroniques Sauvages by Robert Arnaut entitled Stradivarius, the enchanter, featuring Etienne Vatelot, Augustin Dumay and Jean Pavie.