Paolo Borciani

Paolo Borciani (1922-1985) was born in Reggio Emilia in a family where music was a way of life: he began studying the violin as a child under his father’s guidance and soon discovered his artistic calling.

He abandoned his classical studies, which had brought him to close to a law degree, in favour of music.

His career took a decisive turn in 1945, when, in Reggio Emilia, together with other young musicians, he founded the famous Quartetto Italiano.
This ensemble, with Borciani as first violin and leader, soon became synonymous with musical excellence: following its debut in Carpi and Reggio Emilia, the Quartetto Italiano performed in the most prestigious theatres across Europe, North America and Japan, performing classical masterpieces and becoming one of the most celebrated string quartets of the 20th century.

Borciani brought the name of Reggio Emilia to international stages not only as a performer but also as an educator and teacher: he held masterclasses, served on juries at major competitions and taught string quartet and violin at musical institutions in Italy and abroad, thus contributing to the training of new generations of musicians.

In Reggio Emilia, his memory is still very alive: in 1987, the City Council founded the prestigious ‘Paolo Borciani Prize’ International String Quartet Competition, which takes place every three years in the Romolo Valli Municipal Theatre.
This award, named after him, attracts young talents from all over the world and makes Reggio Emilia a global hub for chamber music.