The first, a cutaway Della Volpe model (16" jumbo), is a gift of brotherly love from Greg to Steve. Steve builds shaker furniture, and designed a simple and elegant guitar with a timeless look. I am inspired by my customers' enthusiasm and am looking forward to delivering this fine instrument, which has a moon-harvested Swiss spruce (picea abies) soundboard. For centuries foresters have harvested high-altitude spruce and maple trees during certain moon cycles in winter. This wood is less susceptible to change in humidity and has incredibly tight grain. The back & sides are of exquisite quartersawn old-stock Brazilian rosewood (dalbergia nigra) and has a clear and powerful tap tone.
The second instrument is a fantastic Orchestra Model for a fellow who raced for Lotus in the 1960s. Rob's an easygoing guy who appreciates quality workmanship, and he has designed a classy guitar of Colorado blue spruce and salvaged Brazilian Rosewood. Blue Spruce (picea pungens) makes a great soundboard - responsive and balanced with a quick break-in time and powerful bass. The back & sides of this OM are special, salvaged from a giant stump in the Amazon rainforest. Shades of blue, green, and violet in a converging grain pattern make for a dramatic backplate. A bit of abalone and flamed Koa bindings add striking contrast and beauty to this piece.
I am also pleased to report that Advance Music in Burlington, Vermont will be showcasing one of my guitars this summer. This is a great store, so get on down to beautiful Burlington and go check them out! http://www.advancemusicvt.com Many thanks to Mat, Mike, and Jeff from Advance for supporting Vermont-made musical instruments.
Stowe is an amazing place to be in the summertime, so come on up for a visit!
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