Cordoba is a nylon-string guitar company founded in 1997 by Tim Miklaucic and, since 2023, part of Yamaha Guitar Group. Master luthiers Kenny Hill and Edmund Blöchinger are its designers emeritus, and its tribute models honor some of the greatest guitar makers in history.
Cordoba at a Glance
- Founded: 1997, by Tim Miklaucic
- Parent company: Yamaha Guitar Group (since 2023)
- Designers emeritus: Kenny Hill and Edmund Blöchinger
- Master Series: made in the USA
- Luthier Series: made in China
- Specialty: nylon-string classical and flamenco guitars
The Story of Cordoba Guitars
Tim Miklaucic founded Cordoba in 1997, starting with a team of master luthiers and a simple aim: nylon-string guitars built in the Spanish tradition. From there the company grew into a complete line of classical and flamenco guitars, from student instruments to the hand-built Master Series made in the USA. In 2023 Cordoba Music Group, the company behind Cordoba, was acquired by Yamaha Guitar Group.
Designers Emeritus: Kenny Hill and Edmund Blöchinger
Two luthiers whose own guitars are well known to GSI customers hold the title of designer emeritus at Cordoba. Kenny Hill, of Ben Lomond, California, is known for his replicas of historic guitars and for his modern double-top models; Edmund Blöchinger, of Dorfen, Germany, is one of the most sought-after Torres-inspired makers of our time.
Tributes to the Great Guitar Makers
Many Cordoba models pay tribute to famous historic guitars. The Master Series has included models after Hermann Hauser I (among them Andrés Segovia's 1937 Hauser), Antonio de Torres and Domingo Esteso, while the Luthier Select Series – made by master luthiers in extremely limited batches – has included "Santos Hernandez", "Esteso", "Torres" and "Friederich" models, after Santos Hernández and Daniel Friederich. The Luthier Series models such as the C10 and C12 carry rosettes inspired by 1920s designs of Domingo Esteso.
Cordoba Guitars at GSI
GSI is a Cordoba dealer, and many Cordoba guitars have passed through our doors over the years, from the Luthier Series to the Master Series. You'll find guitars currently in stock by clicking the "Guitars In Stock" button in the header of this page, as well as earlier examples in our Museum by clicking the "Guitars In Museum" button.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Cordoba Guitars?
Tim Miklaucic, in 1997.
Who owns Cordoba today?
Since 2023, Cordoba Music Group has been part of Yamaha Guitar Group.
Where are Cordoba guitars made?
The Master Series is made in the USA; the Luthier Series (C10, C12 and others) is made in China.
Who designs Cordoba guitars?
Master luthiers Kenny Hill and Edmund Blöchinger are Cordoba's designers emeritus.
Does GSI sell Cordoba guitars?
Yes – GSI is a Cordoba dealer.
