The name “Dogal” traces its origins back to the ancient adjective “dogale,” meaning “of the Doge.” This word shares the same Latin root as “duca” (duke in English). It tells the story of a family whose lineage is deeply embedded in the rich history of the Venetian Republic—a story that unfolds alongside the evolution of music.
The Brocco family, native to Venice, had been present in the Veneto region since 1866, establishing a chain of music shops and representing prestigious brands such as Bechstein and Steinway. They maintained close relationships with world-renowned artists. However, after World War II, a shortage of bowed instrument strings prompted the family to begin their own production.
In 1950, marketing strategies led Luigi Cella, manager of the string-making division, to establish a separate company dedicated solely to this endeavor. He named it “Dogal Corde Armoniche,” as an homage to Venice and its historic doges. Benefiting from its proximity to the La Fenice Theatre and its resident artists, who actively collaborated in development, Cella launched production of the first Dogal violin strings.
