1971 Daniel Friederich SP/IN

The late Daniel Friederich is known for his unsurpassed aesthetic as well as his beautiful and magisterial quality of tone. Many of the best players in the world play or have played Friederich, including the Romeros, Manuel Barrueco, Julian Bream, Scott Tennant, Roberto Aussel, Eduardo Fernandez, Alvaro Pierri, David Tanenbaum and many others.

Daniel Friederich has become one the most collectible makers of classical guitars in recent years, and has also become widely regarded as one of the most significant builders of the second half of the 20th century and early 21st. This particular guitar, built in 1971, represents Friederich at the peak of his great spruce-top period. The tone is like soft, fine silk, with controlled and balanced layers of overtones stacked on the crystal-clear fundamental. It has an almost cathedral-like presence, which gives it plenty of power for any concert hall – the quantity of sound is huge with great projection, reminiscent of the style found in the great Fletas of the 50s and 60s. It plays incredibly easy thanks to the comfortable neck shape and shorter scale - this one at 640 mm. These instruments are becoming some of the most prized among collectors, but they are also being played by top concert artists worldwide. For both sound, and collectability, this is an extremely desirable example by this legendary maker.

Interview: Daniel Friederich by Andrea Tacchi