Each spring, Alba GB makes its way to Rome, not just for the food and sunshine, but for one of the most unique and inspiring events in the classical guitar world: Roma Expo Guitars.
Held in the heart of Italy, this event isn’t your average trade fair. It’s a celebration of Italian luthiery, a meeting point for guitar makers, professional players, retailers, teachers, students, and enthusiasts from around the world.
Whether you’re there to test instruments, deepen connections, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, Roma Expo Guitars offers something meaningful to everyone who attends.
For us at Alba GB, the expo has become a fixture in our yearly calendar. Over the last three years, we’ve been proud to take part, showcasing products, building relationships, and learning from some of the most talented individuals in the business.
Read Also: Double Top vs. Traditional Top Classical Guitars: Construction and Tone
It’s the kind of event where a morning discussion with a luthier turns into an evening conversation with a conservatory professor, or a casual encounter with a shop owner turns into a long-term collaboration. The setting is informal but serious, creative but focused, exactly the kind of environment where real connections happen.
Behind this beautifully organized event stand two passionate guitarists and tireless cultural promoters: Massimo Di Coste and Gabriele Curciotti, founders of Chitarra In Association and the minds behind Roma Expo Guitars. Both are respected figures in the Italian classical guitar scene. Massimo is a skilled player(left-handed like some of us), and Gabriele is a performer, teacher, and advocate for the instrument. Together, they’ve built not just an event, but a community, one that brings together the finest of Italian craftsmanship and guitar artistry under one roof.
Read Also: The Evolution of Classical Guitar Supports: Steadiness, Innovation
We sat down with Massimo and Gabriele to learn more about how they’ve built this special event, how they keep it fresh every year, and what it really takes to bring together Italy’s top luthiers and guitar professionals in one place.
Alba GB:
Ciao Massimo and Gabrielle, let’s start from the beginning. What was the initial vision for Roma Expo Guitars, and how has it evolved over the years?
Massimo & Gabriele:
From the very beginning, our dream was to create a meeting place, not just an exhibition space. We wanted to celebrate the excellence of Italian luthiery and bring together the best of the guitar world, from makers to musicians to educators.
Read Also: How Plastic Guitar Beads Improve Classical Guitar’s Sound
Over the years, the event has grown in both size and prestige, but we’ve always stayed true to that core goal: to create a space where passion and quality meet. Every year, we learn something new, and we try to evolve without losing the heart of the event.
Alba GB:
One of the things that always impresses us is the selection of luthiers. How do you go about choosing which builders to participate?
Massimo & Gabriele:
We are incredibly lucky in Italy; our luthiers are among the best in the world. Every year, we carefully evaluate portfolios, sound quality, and the overall artistic approach of each maker. It’s not just about fame or status.
Read Also: Classical Guitar Armrest: Comfort, Protection, and Superior Sound
We look for luthiers who bring sincerity, craftsmanship, and originality to their instruments. There’s a limited number of places each year, and that makes it special. It ensures a high level of quality and a personal touch that visitors really appreciate.
Alba GB:
The atmosphere at Roma Expo is always so friendly and open, even though it’s packed with talent. How do you maintain that?
Massimo & Gabriele:
That’s something we’re very proud of. We believe that music should unite people, not divide them. We work hard to create a welcoming, respectful environment where everyone, from young students to seasoned professionals, feels at ease. It’s about creating moments of real exchange, not just business. We don’t just organize logistics; we curate an experience.
Read Also: Plastic Guitar Beads vs Metal Guitar Beads
Alba GB:
In addition to luthiers, there are always great companies, players, and educators attending. How do you keep that balance?
Massimo & Gabriele:
We see Roma Expo Guitars as a cultural platform, not just a commercial event. We work with music schools, conservatories, retailers, and international artists to ensure a rich mix of participants. Everyone brings something different to the table. We love that. It reflects the diversity of the guitar world today and keeps the event dynamic.
Alba GB:
From your perspective, what has been the most rewarding part of organizing Roma Expo Guitars?
Read Also: Carbon Case for Classical Guitar: Style, Protection and Comfort for Musicians on the Go
Massimo & Gabriele:
Seeing real friendships and collaborations grow out of the event. When a young luthier gets discovered by a shop or a guitarist finds the instrument of their dreams, we know we’ve done something meaningful. That’s the true reward. It makes all the effort worthwhile.
Alba GB:
And finally, what can we look forward to in the next edition?
Massimo & Gabriele:
We’re always refining. For next year, we’re working on perhaps expanding the educational side of the event, more talks, more performances, and new opportunities for younger guitarists and luthiers to participate.
Our mission is to keep Roma Expo Guitars inspiring, surprising, and above all, human. We can’t wait to welcome you all again.
Read Also: Arm Sleeves: A Deeper Look into Their History, Purpose, and Professional Use
Alba GB:
Thank you both. Roma Expo Guitars is a gift to the guitar community, and we’re proud to be part of it.
Massimo & Gabriele:
Thank you! It’s a joy to have Alba GB with us year after year. See you in Rome!
Alba GB:
That’s a great end to our first part of the conversation, but we are planning to discuss more in our second blog.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.