Paul Fischer (b. 1941) is one of England's most respected classical guitar makers. After working with harpsichord maker Robert Goble and in the David Rubio workshop, he opened his own workshop in Oxfordshire in 1975. He is known for his traditional fan-braced guitars and his "Taut" design, played by the Assads, Eduardo Fernández and Jason Vieaux.
At a Glance
- Born: 1941, Isle of Man; raised in Oxford
- Nationality: English
- Training: harpsichord maker Robert Goble (from 1956); David Rubio workshop (1969–1975)
- Workshop: his own, in Oxfordshire, since 1975
- Models: "Premier" (traditional and "Taut" versions), "Virtuoso" and others
- Played by: Sergio and Odair Assad, Badi Assad, Eduardo Fernández, Jason Vieaux, Xuefei Yang and many others
From Harpsichords to David Rubio
Paul Fischer was born on the Isle of Man and grew up in Oxford, where in 1956 he began working with the harpsichord maker Robert Goble. In 1969 he joined the famed David Rubio workshop in Oxfordshire – first as chief instrument maker and later as its manager – and stayed until 1975. Rubio guitars from those years often carry his initials "PF" stamped inside, a practice well known from the José Ramírez shop before 1971.
His Own Workshop in Oxfordshire
In 1975 Paul set up his own workshop in Oxfordshire, and he has dedicated his life to making fine instruments there ever since. His highest-grade concert guitar is the "Premier" model, made both in a traditional fan-braced version – prized for its warm, refined tonal palette – and in his well-known "Taut" version.
The "Taut" System
In the 1980s Paul developed the "Taut" system, drawing on ideas from the physicist Bernard Richardson and his research into guitar acoustics. Fischer's traditional guitars remain equally admired, and many players own both.
Concert Artists and Orfeo Magazine
Orfeo Magazine No. 11 – England Special
Paul Fischer is featured alongside Christopher Dean, Kevin Aram, Gary Southwell, Michael Gee and David Rodgers.
Paul's guitars have been played by numerous concert artists over the years, including Sergio and Odair Assad, Badi Assad, Eduardo Fernández, Jason Vieaux, Xuefei Yang and Juan Martín.
Paul Fischer Guitars at GSI
Many Paul Fischer guitars have passed through our doors over the years. 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 is Paul Fischer?
An English classical guitar maker (b. 1941) who has worked in his own Oxfordshire workshop since 1975, after six years in the David Rubio workshop.
What is a Paul Fischer "Premier"?
His highest-grade concert model, made in a traditional fan-braced version and in his "Taut" version.
What does the "PF" stamp in a Rubio guitar mean?
It marks guitars that Paul Fischer built in the David Rubio workshop between 1969 and 1975.
