It is not often that we have a real Somogyi in the shop, let alone together with a guitar by one of his students. So when we received a Thin Dreadnought by Somogyi and 'Mottainai' model by Michihiro Matsuda, we knew this was a very special occasion. AND the perfect time to take a closer look and listen to the art of these builders!
Somogyi Thin Dreadnought
Ervin Somogyi is considered one of the pioneers of boutique guitar making. Somogyi's guitars are sought after by discerning musicians and collectors, treasured for their exceptional tone, playability and aesthetic beauty.
In a collaboration dating back to 1996, Hideyo Moriya of the California Guitar Trio joined forces with Ervin to create this Thin Modified Dreadnought: an instrument designed for unparalleled performance. With a multiscale fretboard ranging from 26 to 25.125 inches, a slim Florentine cutaway and a slim body design enhanced by a Manzer-style body wedge, this masterpiece by Somogyi embodies innovation and is a tribute to the playing musician!
Michihiro Matsuda No.133A 'Mottainai'
Michihiro Matsuda was a student of Ervin and now has his own workshop in San Francisco. His experience and inspiration at Ervin are definitely reflected in the aesthetic elements of his guitars, but above all, this 'Mottainai' is proof of Michihiro's talent and craftsmanship.
Mottainai is a Japanese expression of regret in which the full value of something is not put to good use. With a large amount of hoarded 'leftover' tonewood, he was able to combine all these materials to build this stunning Grand Auditorium for the 2022 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California. And the result is truly stunning!
The art of teacher and student side by side
Ervin and Michihiro's guitars are of the highest calibre and therefore very rare. So to have two of these guitars in our shop is a special event! Therefore, this is also the perfect moment to admire these guitars side by side. Maico and Milo are inspired by the art of these two builders and let us hear how it sounds. Watch the video below:
Play a real Somogyi and Matsuda!
Would you like to try out these top-of-the-line boutique guitars? You can! On Sunday 1 September, Fritz Heidorn and our own Rudi, together with Ervin, will present their new book about the master builders of the boutique guitar world: Die Akustik Gitarre Als Klankkunstwerk.
Besides the book launch and conversations with the authors, there will also be some special boutique guitars present, including these two that you can hold, play, and buy. To close the afternoon, Peter Finger will give a concert. An afternoon of beautiful guitars and music, you'll want to be there! Entrance is free and you can register by clicking the button below!