2012 Geza Burghardt "1943 Hauser" SP/MP

Geza Burghardt is undoubtedly Hungary's top builder of traditional classical guitars. Although his career began in Budapest in the early 1980s, he moved to Vancouver, Canada in 1988 where he eventually set up a shop in the quaint location of Granville Island. In addition to building guitars, Geza also constructs fine instruments from the bowed string family including everything from double-basses to violins. He also manages to fit restoration work and teaching into his schedule!

This stunning guitar is based on plans made by Jeffrey Elliott of a 1943 Hermann Hauser Sr. instrument. This is documented in a letter included with the guitar (as well as a portfolio of photos taken during construction and certificate of authenticity) where he also mentions that the aged European spruce top came from the supply of German luthier Edgar Mönch - one of the finer German builders from the mid-20th century. Back and sides are made from an exquisite set of European birdseye maple - visually and sonically outstanding in character. Workmanship is perfect, every detail (including v-joint where the head attaches to the neck) is meticulously done, and although over a decade old, the guitar is in pristine, near-mint condition with no signs of prior use. For sound, this guitar in our opinion is in equal company with other distinguished luthiers in the Hauser tradition - including such luminaries as Jose Romanillos and Manuel Velazquez. Geza here has truly captured the essentials of the "teutonic style" made so famous by Hauser I - firm, anchored and steady basses, clear and brilliant trebles, all combining to deliver supreme clarity and balance, like a piano. With Geza's personal touch, there is also a warm "glow" of controlled partials in every note that gives it added dimensionality within this famous style. The guitar has plenty of volume and projection for any concert setting and it records beautifully (video coming soon). Overall an outstanding guitar - beautifully built with everything a player could dream of who is searching for that teutonic Hauser style sound that very few builders have ever managed to achieve - simply a wonderful guitar in every regard. Burghardt guitars rarely appear on the second-hand market so it's a real treat to be able to have this fine guitar on offer.