Flamenco guitar Marcelo Barbero 1949

This flamenco guitar was made by the legendary guitar maker Marcelo Barbero in Madrid, 1949. This maker is regarded as one of the most important flamenco guitar craftsmen ever. After Santos Hernández’s death, his widow, Matilde Ruiz, ordered Marcelo Barbero the making of Santos’ unfinished guitars before his premature death in 1943, thus employing the workshop and tools located in 23 Aduana Street, Madrid. Thanks to that, Marcelo learned and
discovered some little tricks secrets Santos had when making his guitars, becoming his only disciple and apprentice, even if just indirectly. This is why Barbero’s guitars after this time are the most valued by instrument collectors all around the world. This guitars stand out for their light weight and outstanding acoustic response, quick and accurate, but also full of flamenco character.

This flamenco guitar is a real gem. In fact, odd as it may sound, a guitar by Marcelo Barbero is so much more difficult to find than one by Don Antonio de Torres or Santos Hernández. This instrument was made in 1949. In this period, Marcelo Barbero had already internalized all the knowledge absorbed from his mentor, Santos Hernández, and developed his own making system, which allowed him to create a supreme instrument, which we believe to represent the true leap from the ancient to the modern Spanish guitar.

The sound which comes out of this guitar beats any expectations possible, and by far. The strummings are simply the best we have ever heard. Such a beautiful flamenco timbre with this “hollow” effect and “spring-like” bass strings. Also, it has thick and enveloping trebles which make this guitar a unique masterpiece.

The strings height and adjustment which this guitar allows is simply perfect, this permits an extremely comfortable touch in both hands and an increase in fluidity when playing the instrument.

The condition is good and it guarantees the originality in every single part of the instrument. Marcelo Barbero´s guitars are particularly light, due to the low thickness of the wood. As a result, it is practically impossible to find guitars made by this genius without any cracks or repairs of some kind. This instrument has been masterfully restored by Francisco Sánchez. A restoration which consisted of the repair of several cracks, but with the utmost respect for the integrity of the guitar, as well as the original thickness of the original wood. This is essential if we intend to preserve the originality of its wonderful sound and character.

The fact that we have images of the full restoration of the instrument is definitely worth mentioning. We will be more than happy to send them to any of our friends interested in this fine instrument.