| The Ramirez Model 1a Traditional
was designed by none other than Jose Ramirez III, one of the most prominent
luthiers of the 20th century. Ramirez powerful guitar designs
not only influenced a generation of luthiers, but also predisposed many
composers to expanded their works to include guitar pieces for larger concert
halls!
During his guitar
building career, Jose Ramirez III was constantly striving to improve
the classical guitar model. Today, the majority of concert grade
classical guitars are made with Western Red cedar tops, but this was
not always the case. Ramirez was the one to introduce this
tonewood into the mainstream of guitar building which was quite controversial
at the time! The introduction of cedar as a top plate tonewood is arguably
one of the most important innovations in the evolution of classical guitar!
The three Ramirez 1a C-650
Traditional guitars pictured above (one Brazilian and two Indian rosewood
versions) are built to the demanding specifications of Jose Ramirez III and
feature 650 mm scale lengths, Master Grade tonewoods, cypress
side interiors and intricate fan strutting patterns. Of course
these guitars each have distinct personalities of their own, but they
all share the lush tonality and powerful voice that has sustained the reputation
of Ramirez concert classical instruments!
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