2012 Bernd Martin SP/CSAR

In 1976, German-born luthier Bernd Martin moved to Granada, Spain to master the art of guitar making. He apprenticed in the workshops of Antonio Durán and Jose Lopez Bellido, and also received the tutelage of Eduardo Ferrer. Bernd was the first (of many) non-Spaniards to establish himself as a guitar maker in the city of the Alhambra, with a workshop in the Albayzín district. In 1999 he won first prize in the “Concurso Nacional de Lutheria” (National Luthiery Competition) organized by J. L. Romanillos. Sadly Bernd passed away in 2018 after having worked with GSI for many years as his exclusive US dealer along with his son Lucas Martin who still builds guitars to this day. His used instruments rarely appear on the market so this is a real treat to hear and play a great instrument from one of Granada's best.

This guitar is a perfect example of what makes the "Granada style" so attractive to the most meticulous of players - it is easy to play for both left and right hand; has quick response across all registers; excellent volume and projection, and perhaps most importantly - a beautiful, lyrical quality of sound. Finally, craftsmanship and materials are superb - the subtle use of snakewood in the purfling and detailings frame the instrument beautifully, and the wood used for the neck has beautiful flaming in it. Although used it is in excellent condition with only some very minor wear in the finish. Overall an extremely impressive instrument and fine example of this luthier's best work.