Guitars Overview

The guitar is by definition a plucked stringed instrument having a “waisted” body and curved sides. The guitar, as we know it today, did not really exist before the 15th century. Similar instruments did exist before but generally experts are unable to agree on whether or not these are guitars or variations on other instruments. Since this time we have seen the development of the guitar from four course(Strings) instrument with 8-10 tied on gut frets to electric solid body instruments containing electronics able to simulate all types of guitar and other instruments as well. I build Nylon string Classical and Flamenco guitars, and also Steel String Gypsy Jazz guitars. These are built by hand in order to optimize the sound characteristics and playability of the instrument. Great attention is applied to the materials used, workmanship in every detail of the guitars and more importantly also to dealings with customers many of whom have become personal friends. I concentrate on acoustic guitars, mainly classical, but believe that it is important to look at and understand other types of guitar. This is what lead to my interest in building Selmer guitars and also steel string guitars and feel that these have led to a greater understanding of the instrument and its capabilities. All guitars are built using only selected tone-woods. Master grade European Spruce, Engelmann Spruce, Western Red Cedar tops for Nylon string guitars and generally Sitka Spruce tops for gypsy jazz guitars and steel string models. Backs and sides are of selected hardwoods – Indian Rosewood, Amazon Rosewood, Honduras Rosewood, Cypress, African Rosewood whereas bodies of Gypsy jazz guitars are a special lamination with either Indian or Rio rosewood for the face (depending on the model) using aircraft grade adhesives following the original construction methods of the Selmer/Maccaferri guitars. My guitars are lightly built in order to provide a responsive instrument with clear separation between notes and even balance between strings. I am looking for a clear focussed sound with a wide palette of tone colour. The construction of the top is very important to the sound and I have spent a lot of time experimenting to achieve this. Classical guitars are built with a slight arch on the top to help maintain stability. Gypsy jazz guitars have a pronounced arch built into the top to increase projection. All guitars are built “stress free” to ensure longevity of the instrument and neck reinforcement is standard on all instruments including Classical and flamenco guitars. A great deal of attention is paid to the playability and consistency of my guitars. New instruments can be adjusted or built specifically to suit customer’s needs. Frets are highly polished with smooth ends and fingerboards are oiled and all instruments are supplied with a high quality hard case.