1995 Kevin Aram "Zenobia" SP/IN

This 1995 Kevin Aram “Zenobia” is a spruce and Indian rosewood classical guitar from North Devon, England – one of his earlier named guitars, from the period when the influence of the old masters is clearest.

“Zenobia”, 1995

Like every Aram, this guitar carries its name on the label – here “Zenobia”, written by hand under his calla-lily label, with his signature and the year 1995. It is French polished throughout.

Sound and Condition

Basses are strong and tight, but not boomy. Trebles are smooth and bright, but not metallic at all, and the guitar has a musical quality that comes through in every note. It is in excellent condition for its age, showing only signs of minimal playing wear. Ricardo Giuffrida plays Hélio Delmiro’s “Chama” on it in the video above.

In Orfeo Magazine

Kevin Aram is featured in Orfeo Magazine No. 11 – England (cover above, read it online), also available in print in the collected edition:

Orfeo Magazine 11–15 (print edition)

Kevin Aram: An English Master

Kevin Aram is considered to be one of the best makers in northern Europe and has made guitars for some of the most prominent players in the world, including Julian Bream. Working in North Devon, England, since 1991, he builds around twelve guitars a year and gives every one its own name – like Romanillos, usually a woman’s name – written by hand on the label beside his signature.

Torres, Hauser and Romanillos

His guitars are influenced by the work of Torres, Hauser and Romanillos, who helped him when he started building classical guitars. The sound is delicate and refined, although that is not to say that they don’t have great volume – but it is rather the quality of sound which is most noticeable. There is something very musical about these instruments which reveals itself in every note, and Aram’s guitars have warmth and charm and are beautifully made.