Xiaoqing "Federico" Jiang is a classical and flamenco guitar maker from Guangzhou, China, who has built more than 500 instruments and won third prize for classical guitar at the 2026 Antonio Marín Montero International Guitar Making Competition in Granada.
At a Glance
- Workshop: Guangzhou, China
- Building since: 2003
- Studied with: Juan Labella (2012 masterclass); Pablo Requena and Stephen Hill in Granada (2015)
- Output: more than 500 instruments, including flamenco, classical, early Romantic and multi-string guitars
- Influences: Antonio de Torres, Vicente Arias, Domingo Esteso, Manuel Reyes
- Award: Third Prize, classical guitar, ninth Antonio Marín Montero Guitar Making Competition (2026)
From Flamenco Player to Luthier
Federico's path into nylon-string guitar making began as a player. In 2002, he started studying with Raymond Au, Hong Kong's first flamenco guitar teacher and a student of Paco Peña. Playing gave Federico a deep love of the guitar, and the allure of flamenco in particular led him to think about building instruments himself. In 2003, he decided to make lutherie his profession.
Self-Taught Beginnings
At first, learning materials were hard to find, so Federico taught himself through experimentation, patience, and dedication, steadily refining his skills. Over time his building grew more accomplished, and his guitars began to earn recognition in China's flamenco and classical guitar communities, especially after appearances in the media and at festivals.
Learning from Spain
In 2012, Federico attended a masterclass with the celebrated Spanish luthier Juan Labella. In 2015, he traveled to Granada to study what he considered the most authentic Spanish guitar-making techniques. There he received valuable guidance from Pablo Requena and from Stephen Hill, founder of the European Institute of Guitar Making and a practitioner of Antonio Marín Montero's "Granada school" methods. This experience helped Federico combine traditional practices with his own contemporary approach.
One of China's Finest Luthiers
Federico has now built more than 500 instruments. He draws inspiration from legendary makers such as Antonio de Torres, Vicente Arias, Domingo Esteso, and Manuel Reyes, and his guitars are appreciated by players in China, Europe, and North America.
Prize Winner in Granada
In 2026, Federico won third prize for classical guitar at the prestigious ninth Antonio Marín Montero International Guitar Making Competition in Granada, Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Federico Jiang based? In Guangzhou, China.
Who did Federico Jiang study with? He began as a flamenco player with Raymond Au in Hong Kong, attended a masterclass with Juan Labella, and studied in Granada with Pablo Requena and Stephen Hill.
What awards has Federico Jiang won? Third Prize for classical guitar at the 2026 Antonio Marín Montero International Guitar Making Competition in Granada.
Which historic makers inspire Federico Jiang? Antonio de Torres, Vicente Arias, Domingo Esteso and Manuel Reyes.
