René A. Morel Biography, Age, Height, Wife, Net Worth and Family

Morel lived in Rutherford, New Jersey. He died of cancer at the age of 79 on November 16, 2011, in Wayne, New Jersey, and was survived by his companion, Christa Nagy, and his three children.

On February 1, 1994, he opened René A. Morel Rare Violins in the same location, expanding his expertise to include dealing. In 1999, Morel & Gradoux-Matt, Inc. was started to make room for another experienced luthier, Emmanuel Gradoux-Matt. In 2008, Morel and Gradoux-Matt split, with Morel remaining at the same location, now within Tarisio Auctions on 54th Street.

In 1964, Morel opened his own shop at Jacques Français, Rare Violins, Inc. in New York. Using French techniques of tool handling and ideas learned with Sacconi, Morel had now been developing new methods of restoration and repair for over 30 years. Morel’s advancements further improved the quality and acoustics of viols. Many virtuoso string players sought out Morel specifically for sound adjustment in their instruments.

In 1955, Morel began work at Rembert Wurlitzer’s shop in New York, the leading instrument dealer in the city that is one of the largest centers for string players in the world, helping Morel build his reputation among top musicians. Simone F. Sacconi ran the shop and taught Morel many new concepts about violin restoration.

René A. Morel (11 March 1932 – 16 November 2011) was an experienced and influential luthier who was highly regarded by leading international string players, who had been described as “arguably the best violin restorer in the world”. He served on the juries of many violin-making competitions, and held offices in both the International Society of Violin and Bow Makers (Entente) as well as the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers.