While still in his teens, in the Philadelphia area, he had access to various collections of rare instruments, notably the vast collection of H. Ott, an admirer of the violin. Through his guidance and advice and a large circle of instrument dealers and acquaintances, Terenzio was able to examine and restore choice examples of the classical Italian, French and German instruments.

A descendant of G. Fiorini of Bologna (Rieger-Fiorini) and several other professional makers of 19th and twentieth century Europe, Terenzio began extensive research into the 17th, 18th and 19th century master varnish and their replication and application before traveling to Italy, Germany and France in 1972.

After receiving his university degrees in 1972, it was in Italy, that his violinmaker training was culminated. Under the supervision of Pietro Sgarabotto in Parma and Gio Batta Morassi in Cremona, Mr. Riegel acquired his skills in both the classical and modern methods and techniques of the violinmaker’s art.

His atelier for many years was located in the provincial area of Schuylkill county Pa. and Boston, Ma. before locating his present workshop in Lebanon, Pa. He has held workshops and clinics in various Universities in the United States, notably, The University of Massachusetts, West Chester University, Millersville University and Marywood University to name a few.

As a violinist and violist he has performed with a number of professional and semi-professional musical organizations and has taught privately for almost 45 years.

Terenzio is featured in Thomas Wenberg's book “The Violin Maker’s Of The United States.”



Contact us at our new email terenzio@riegelhistory.com