2014 Matthew Chaffin SP/IN

Matthew Chaffin made this classical guitar in 2014 with a spruce soundboard and Indian rosewood back and sides – an Esteso-based design with a maple strip down the center of the back.

In the video above, Josh Moore plays Hans Werner Henze's "Drei Tentos" on this guitar.

Domingo Esteso Underneath

Its plantilla, internal structure and fan bracing come from Domingo Esteso, while details such as the beautiful maple strip in the center of the back and the headstock design are entirely Chaffin's.

Sound and Playability

Firm, refined and stable in sound – at times Hauser-like – yet open and charming, it can reach great volume while the bass and treble stay perfectly balanced. Playability is top-notch, with a smooth neck and easy action.

Matthew Chaffin: A Michigan Maker in the Spanish Tradition

Matthew Chaffin is an American classical guitar maker based in Orion, Michigan, a fourth-generation woodworker in a family line that began with his great-grandfather's fine furniture. For more than two decades he has studied the construction methods of the great Spanish makers – above all Antonio de Torres, Santos Hernández and Domingo Esteso – and he builds his guitars entirely by hand, often with turn-of-the-century tools he restores himself.

Light, Responsive and Lyrical

His aim is a lightweight, responsive and lyrical guitar with a classic, understated look – firm and refined in sound, at times reminiscent of a Hauser, yet open and charming and happy to be pushed hard, with excellent balance between bass and treble and a smooth, comfortable neck. GSI is his only dealer in the USA.