Christopher Dean

Christopher Dean, born in 1958 in Lincoln, is one of the most respected British luthiers of his generation. A trained visual artist and guitarist, he studied Musical Instrument Technology in London and worked alongside Paul Fischer before founding his own workshop in the Cotswolds in 1985. His guitars are renowned for their refined aesthetics, powerful yet balanced tone, long sustain, and unmistakable clarity — instruments crafted with an artistic sensitivity that has earned him an international reputation among top players.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classical Guitars

How do I choose the right classical guitar for my level?

Choosing the right classical guitar depends on your playing level, musical goals, and budget. Beginners benefit from studio-model guitars from renowned workshops, while advanced players and professionals often choose a handmade master guitar. We are happy to advise you personally and can send detailed sound samples and videos on request.

What is the difference between a master guitar and a studio guitar?

Master guitars are built entirely by hand in the workshop of a single luthier, using only high-quality, well-aged tonewoods. Studio guitars are made in small series, often under the supervision of the master luthier, and offer excellent value for students and ambitious amateur players.

Can I try a classical guitar at home for 14 days?

Yes — every guitar you purchase from us comes with a 14-day home approval period. This complimentary trial applies worldwide to all orders, whether you are in Germany, Europe, the USA, Asia or anywhere else. We ship your instrument fully insured in a high-quality case so you can play it under your own acoustic conditions. If the guitar is not the right one for you, simply send it back and receive a full refund of the purchase price.

Can I try a classical guitar before purchasing?

Absolutely. You are warmly invited to visit our showroom in Karlsruhe, Germany, and test the instruments at your leisure. We are happy to schedule a personal appointment. If a visit is not possible, we send detailed videos and sound samples, and offer extensive consultation by phone or video call.

What payment methods and financing options do you offer?

We accept bank transfer, PayPal, major credit cards, and Klarna. For high-value instruments, we offer individual installment plans on request. Please contact us directly — we will find a suitable solution for every budget.

How do I properly care for my classical guitar?

A classical guitar requires constant humidity between 45 and 55 percent. Store the instrument in its case with a humidifier, avoid direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations. Change the strings regularly and clean the guitar with a soft microfiber cloth.

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Christopher Dean – Guitar Maker

Christopher Dean, born in 1958 in Lincoln, England, is a gifted visual artist and guitarist who developed a strong fascination for the instrument at a young age. Coming from a family with a rich tradition in craftsmanship and engineering, he combined his love for music – particularly the works of Bach and Villa-Lobos – with a deep interest in the structure and design of the guitar. At the age of 17, he had already built his first instrument. Since then, he has devoted himself completely to the art of guitar making, earning an international reputation and a world-class clientele.

Education and Professional Development

After graduating in Musical Instrument Technology from the London College of Furniture, he collaborated with another leading British guitar maker, Paul Fischer – a partnership that firmly established Christopher Dean within the mainstream of European luthiery.

Workshop and Signature Style

In 1985, Christopher Dean founded his own workshop in the heart of the Cotswolds. Since then, he has been selling his guitars worldwide to an ever-growing and enthusiastic customer base. His instruments are distinguished not only by their refined aesthetics but also by their consistently outstanding sound. They offer a seamless blend of balance, sustain, and tonal brilliance in a style uniquely his own.

Philosophy

“I am passionate about building guitars. The transformation, almost through a kind of alchemy, from beautiful yet inert wood into a living instrument with its own characteristics and personality continues to fascinate and delight me. The outcome I aim for is a guitar that looks and sounds intuitively ‘right’ in all its proportions and aspects, exceeding the expectations of its new owner in every way.” – Christopher Dean

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