Luigi Mozzani (1869-1943) is a prominent figure in the history of classical guitar and Italian lutherie. A highly talented musician and guitarist, he distinguished himself as a concert performer, composer, teacher, and innovative luthier. He was born in Faenza on March 9, 1869 (though some sources cite Granarolo di Romagna as his birthplace), and his childhood was marked by economic hardship that forced him to leave school after completing only the first grade. Nevertheless, he managed to educate himself independently and developed a strong interest in music. After initially studying the clarinet, he graduated in oboe from the Conservatory of Bologna at the age of 18, before devoting himself to the guitar-the instrument that would make him famous, leading him to perform in various Italian cities, European capitals, and North America. He founded a school of lutherie, whose developments in the pursuit of a perfect balance between art and science are still internationally recognized today. The typically Italian taste for melody-derived from opera and chamber vocal music-distinguishes his guitar compositions, which have remained largely unexplored until now. These works are finally brought to light in their entirety through the interpretations of Walter Zanetti (joined by Monica Paolini in the pieces for two guitars).
