2011 Jeffrey Elliott SP/CSAR

Jeffrey Elliott's 12 year wait-list has been closed for many years now due to the overwhelming worldwide demand for his instruments. So we are pleased at this very rare opportunity to have acquired and offer one of his guitars here at GSI. His aesthetic (both tonally and visually) is unmatched and in our opinion, this instrument is an example that confirms his reputation as one of most unique, classy and timeless of contemporary luthiers. Elliott's work is extremely refined and all matters of detail are perfectly executed. Custom-built to our specs, this guitar features the unique and beautiful chip-carved rosette with amboyna burl in place of a mosaic. If you look closely, you'll notice some small, circular brass inlays, and one larger one of blue-green abalone, encircled in a thin brass ring. This is Elliott's "tip-of-the-hat" to the awe and wonder he has experienced while contemplating the beautiful Hubble space images of stars being born from giant galactic nebulae. Another distinguishing characteristic is the headstock shape (and extremities of the custom Rodgers tuners) which to our eyes resembles the maple leaf, symbolic of this guitar's birthplace in the Pacific Northwest. Finally, the entire neck, heel and head are made from a single piece of Spanish cedar, with rosewood veneers on either side of the head. The sound of course is lush and full with great clarity in all voices - it has the grandeur of Hauser and the beauty of Torres, yet carries the distinct sound of its builder at the same time. It is no wonder that his clientele include the likes of Julian Bream, Marcelo Kayath, Ralph Towner, Leo Kottke, Jonathan Leathwood, Earl Klugh, and Ekachai Jearakul, just to name a few. Although a second-hand instrument, it is in like-new condition.

Photos taken during this guitar's construction

Orfeo Magazine No. 10 - West Coast Luthiers