1961 Marcelino Lopez "Blanca" SP/CY

The late Marcelino López Nieto was one of Spain's most respected builders of the 20th century. He was originally a performer of the guitar, and had been a student of Daniel Fortea (who was himself a pupil of Tarrega). His professional background was initially in cabinetmaking, so given his skill set, it was a natural transition to guitar making, a path taken by many builders throughout history. He befriended Mathilde Ruiz (the widow of Santos Hernandez) after the passing of Santos in 1943, and was able to spend time in his workshop before setting up his own shop in 1947. He is also known for having worked with Hernandez y Aguado in the early 1970's and has since built several "Hernandez y Aguado" models over the years. Although a Madrid maker, Marcelino Lopez never allowed himself to fall under the shadow of the style of the larger, sturdier guitars of the Ramirez school, and always built in the traditional style of Torres and southern Spanish styles, keeping to the smaller body design without the use of double sides, and mostly building spruce tops, with French polish finish. This guitar, made in 1961 is a great example of the style he triumphed - a flamenco blanca with an extremely lightweight build making it a thrill to play due to the lightning-fast response and old-world charm - this guitar easily compares for sound and playability with the top flamencos of the "golden-age" of mid-century makers like Barbero, Arcangel and Reyes. Condition is excellent for a guitar of this age. Apart from one repaired crack on the soundboard (with only 2 small cleats), the guitar is in totally original condition including thicknesses, finish, everything. It is concert-ready for any professional performance situation. An outstanding example at Marcelino Lopez at his best.

Orfeo Magazine: Marcelino Lopez Nieto