For performers and collectors alike, the name Ignacio Fleta (1897-1977) ranks among the elite handful of 20th century luthiers. His colorful guitar-making career spanned nearly half a century and his legacy has continued to the present day, with the instruments of his two sons Gabriel and Francisco, and now grandson Gabriel Jr. Countless scores of the finest players in the world have played these instruments, including Andres Segovia, John Williams, Angel Romero, Turibio Santos, Alirio Diaz, Marcelo Kayath among just a few.
In typical Fleta fashion for this period, this example from 1961 features a spruce soundboard. Interestingly though, the back and sides are made of CSA rosewood - a much rarer option for Fleta. This guitar was owned, recorded and concertized on for many years by the great Danish guitarist Lars Hannibal. (you can hear this very guitar on his CD 'Siesta') as well as several other recordings he made with Chen Yi and Michala Petri.
As expected, the sound is incredible - deep and complex with incredible dynamic range and balance. Thanks to a slightly narrower neck, playability is also excellent and very easy on the hands, although it obviously still features the firmness that Fleta guitars are known for due to their heavily-braced tops. The guitar only has three expertly stabilized cracks on the top (repaired externally only - no cleating or internal repairs needed).
Of interest, one of the most famous guitars in history was also a 1961 Fleta, recorded and played in concert by John Williams from 1961 to 1972. The "Williams" Fleta was #235, and the one we have on offer now is #224 – only 11 guitars away, so it is in very good company. An extremely rare and desirable Fleta by any standard.
