1974 Jose Ramirez "1a" CD/CSAR (ex Pepe Romero)

This guitar was built in the famous Jose Ramirez III workshop, which for over half a century has produced instruments performed on by countless professionals from Sting to Segovia, Chet Atkins to Sabicas and Lee Ritenour to Christopher Parkening. This particular guitar was selected in 1974 by Pepe Romero with his father Celedonio in the Ramirez shop in 1974, and the two shared it over the course of many years (a letter written by Pepe Romero accompanies this instrument). Only one or two notes need to be played to immediately understand why this guitar was purchased by Pepe - it has great power, a thick and rich texture to every note, yet retains great clarity and and has that essential warm, mysterious and moody quality that made Ramirez famous. It features first rate materials, including a striking set of figured CSA rosewood for the back and sides, and a top with strong, thick grain lines. It is in great condition for its age - no cracks or repairs anywhere on the instrument. Only some minor wear in the finish. Overall a great example of a fine Ramirez for either collector or concert player for condition, sound and provenance.

For more information on Ramirez, be sure to read The Ramirez Family: Masters of the Guitar, or for information on the Ramirez family members, from Amalia Ramirez back to Jose I and for some interesting fact-checking on myths and facts about this legendary workshop.