2019 Monica Esparza SP/MP

Monica Esparza's journey to guitar making was the merging of her early love of woodworking with her hobby of playing the classical guitar, and she was fortunately able to find resources as a member of the Guild of American Luthiers when she first attended one of their conferences in 2004. Additionally she was able to attend 3 Romanillos masterclasses in Spain between 2004 and 2012 which deepened her appreciation and knowledge of the traditional Spanish guitar. This instrument, named "Estrellita" beautifully demonstrates her working knowledge of the old masters such as Torres and the early Madrid school (Manuel Ramirez, Santos Hernandez, Domingo Esteso, etc) but she also allows for some personal touches, particularly in the decorative elements - note the use of mother-of-pearl for highlights in the head, rosette and foot. Beautifully and elegantly made it has an immediate response and lightweight feel, lovely lyrical trebles and a nice warmth across all registers. Although a second-hand guitar it's in excellent condition with barely any signs of prior use.