Kenneth Brögger Celebrates 50 Years of Guitar Making

Danish luthier, Kenneth Brögger, celebrates an incredible milestone this year, as 2025 marks his 50th anniversary as a professional guitar maker. For over the past two decades, Kenneth has also been an esteemed partner of GSI, and we are delighted to continue showcasing his exceptional craftsmanship. This week, we are excited to feature his latest spruce-top guitar in our store.

Kenneth Brögger was born in Hellerup, Denmark, in 1948 and began his journey in luthiery in 1972 as an apprentice to Yngve Barslev. His early career was shaped by extensive research trips to Spain, where he learned firsthand from some of the finest traditional guitar makers. Since then, Kenneth has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of guitar building, earning a reputation for precision, artistry, and deep respect for historical techniques.

Throughout his career, Kenneth has not only crafted world-class instruments but has also contributed to the field through extensive research and exhibitions. Additionally, his work restoring antique stringed instruments for the Museum of Music History in Copenhagen has helped preserve Denmark’s rich guitar-making heritage. Kenneth is also famous for his publications. His books, including Danish Guitars - and their Makers and Classical Guitar Making, have provided invaluable insights into the world of luthiery and his biographical book, A Life With Guitars describes his diverse, exciting and fascinating guitar-related experiences, and discusses other guitar makers he has met both in Denmark and abroad. 

Kenneth’s relationship with GSI began in 2003 when he reached out to us with his book Danish Guitars - and their Makers. Reflecting on this, Kenneth shared his story:

"In 2001 I wrote and published the book 'Danish Guitars - and their Makers,' which of course also included descriptions and photos of guitars I had made. I sent the book to Guitar Salon International and asked if they would be interested in selling some of my guitars. The answer came promptly: 'Yes - send one immediately.' I did so, and it sold quickly, so they immediately ordered another one. It has been like this ever since, and in 2023 GSI and I celebrated 20 years of collaboration. I have been very happy and satisfied with this collaboration all these years up until today, where I celebrate my 50th anniversary, which has led to my guitars now being sold and known all over most of the world. Over the years, David and I have exchanged ideas about models, materials, tuners, surface treatments, head shapes, inlays and much more, which has been very rewarding for both GSI and me."

We at GSI are proud to be part of Kenneth Brögger’s journey and look forward to many more years of working together. His latest spruce-top guitar, now available at GSI, is a testament to his lifetime of dedication and expertise. Make sure to check out this beautiful instrument. Below, you'll find a photo gallery capturing some moments from Kenneth's guitar-making journey throughout the decades, as well as three videos recently recorded in Kenneht's workshop highlighting his guitar building process.