1963 Masaru Kohno SP/CSAR

Masaru Kohno (1926-1998) is arguably Japan’s most important luthier, and of course one of the most played, concertized and recorded of the 20th century. Top players of Kohno guitars include Julian Bream, Oscar Ghiglia, Sharon Isbin and Shinichi Fukuda, among others. Although Kohno began building guitars in 1948, it wasn’t until returning back to Japan in 1960, after a 6-month trip to Spain (where he apprenticed with Arcangel Fernandez) that he established his successful workshop. His international reputation was further bolstered in 1967 when he was awarded a Gold Medal at the "Concours International de Quatuor a Cordes et Rencontres Musicales Internationales de Liege" in Belgium (of interest, Daniel Friederich was another of the top winners at this competition). This particular guitar was built just a few years before this event, in 1963 when he was using the spellings "Kono" and "Tokio" on his labels. This has the classic sound from this era: clear, woody, and even a bit dark for a spruce. Condition is excellent with one well repaired crack in the lower bout of the soundboard, as well as on the side of the fingerboard. Otherwise, only some normal, respectable playing wear that is superficial only. The guitar is in concert-ready condition with comfortable set up and easy playability. A Kohno from this vintage in this condition is rarely seen these days. Quite impressive overall and a great instrument.Orfeo No. 15: The Guitar in Japan