Milan Honors Master Organ Builder Giuseppe Costamagna with Commemorative Plaque
Milan, June 18, 2026 – The city of Milan paid tribute yesterday to Giuseppe Costamagna, a master organ builder and Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at Viale Monza 117. This location served as his professional workshop for many years. The ceremony, part of the “Milano è Memoria” (Milan is Memory) project by the Municipality of Milan, marked the 50th anniversary of Costamagna’s death.
The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Anna Scavuzzo, President of Municipality 2 Simone Locatelli, and members of Giuseppe Costamagna’s family.
A Legacy of Artistic Craftsmanship
“With this plaque, Milan remembers a protagonist of Italian artistic craftsmanship and a figure who significantly contributed to the city’s cultural and musical life,” stated Deputy Mayor Anna Scavuzzo. “Giuseppe Costamagna’s works continue to resonate in many Milanese churches and institutions today, a concrete testament to extraordinary professionalism and artistic sensibility that have left a lasting mark on our community’s heritage. Through ‘Milano è Memoria,’ we aim to highlight stories like his, which recount the work, talent, and dedication of men and women who helped build the city’s identity.”
From Caramagna Piemonte to International Recognition
Born in Caramagna Piemonte on February 1, 1914, Giuseppe Costamagna learned the art of organ building alongside his brother Piero with the Balbiani Vegezzi Bossi family, thanks to the intercession of maestro Pietro Alessandro Yon. After World War II, he founded the F.lli Costamagna company in Milan, becoming its owner.
Over more than thirty years of activity, Costamagna built over one hundred instruments distributed throughout Italy, particularly in Lombardy and Tuscany, and also abroad, such as in the Sanctuary of Ain Karem in Jerusalem.
Significant Works in Milan
Numerous of his works are present in Milan, including the organs of Santa Maria Assunta in Turro, San Giovanni in Laterano, San Martino in Lambrate, Santissimo Nome di Maria, San Vittore al Corpo, and San Michele and Santa Rita al Corvetto. He also carried out interventions at the Civic School, the Pio Albergo Trivulzio, the church of Santa Maria del Suffragio, and the Catholic University.
National Recognition and Enduring Memory
In 1962, President of the Republic Antonio Segni awarded him the honor of Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, recognizing his professional and human value.
Costamagna passed away in Milan on April 6, 1976. The plaque unveiled yesterday, on the 50th anniversary of his death, helps keep alive the memory of a craftsman who combined technical excellence, musical research, and artistic care, leaving an enduring legacy in the city’s cultural heritage.
