Lillo Salerno was born in Sicily, Italy. He studied at the Cremona Violin Making School and the Mittenwald School of Violin Making. He finished school in 2005, and honed his craft in several workshops before establishing himself independently.

Salerno’s workshop is located in Pforzheim, Germany. He is not only an expert in violin construction and design, but also in restoration and repair. His work shows influence from both the Cremonese and the German traditional schools of violin making. Salerno’s instruments have been prized by musicians from the Berliner Philharmoniker and music professors and students from conservatories around Europe.