John Ray

John Ray, a Canadian-born luthier, arrived in Granada, Spain, in 1989 to pursue his dream of building guitars in the birthplace of the Spanish classical guitar. Influenced by masters such as Antonio Marín Montero and Rolf Eichinger, he developed his craft through years of dedication and immersion in the Granada tradition. His guitars are known for their refined craftsmanship, tonal balance, and expressive sound, making him one of the distinguished representatives of the modern Granada School of guitar making.

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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About the Guitar Maker

John Ray is a Canadian-born luthier based in Granada, Spain, who has become a prominent figure in the world of Spanish guitar making over the past three decades. His story began on November 25, 1989, when he arrived in Granada by bus from Madrid with a single goal in mind: to learn the art of building guitars in the very heart of Spanish luthiery. Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, John had already spent years playing guitar, studying the instrument’s construction, and doing minor repairs before deciding to dedicate his life to the craft.

To support himself, he taught English as a second language while seeking mentorship from Granada’s legendary luthiers. Despite the local tradition of taking on only family members as apprentices, several makers welcomed him with advice and encouragement. Antonio Marín Montero was particularly generous, offering both tools and hands-on guidance—an act emblematic of his reputation for kindness. Jonathan Hinves, Germán Pérez Barranco, and Rafael Moreno also played important roles in his early development, sharing insights that helped shape his craftsmanship.

Training in Málaga

In 1990, John had the opportunity to attend a two-week workshop in Málaga led by José Ángel Chacón, focused on repair, restoration, and guitar construction. This experience proved pivotal. He was later invited to join Chacón and his students on weekends at their informal workshop, where he immersed himself in the world of Spanish guitar building. The combination of craftsmanship, camaraderie, and a shared love for music deeply influenced his approach to luthiery.

Return to Granada and Professional Growth

After his time in Málaga, John returned to Granada, where he set up his own workshop and began to fully dedicate himself to guitar making. Drawing on the Granada School of Guitar Making, he developed his own style, blending traditional Spanish methods with his personal sense of precision and artistry. A key turning point came in 1999 when he met Rolf Eichinger, a German master luthier who became his mentor. Under Eichinger’s guidance, John learned advanced techniques passed down from Granada’s finest builders, including Manuel Bellido and Antonio Marín Montero.

Eichinger’s mentorship profoundly shaped John’s career, teaching him not only the technical aspects of fine guitar making but also the business side of the craft—sourcing materials, selecting tools, and connecting with musicians. Through discipline and dedication, John adopted a rigorous work ethic, spending up to ten hours a day in his workshop. This transformation solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected luthier within the global guitar community.

Legacy

Today, John Ray is celebrated for his Granada-inspired concert guitars, which combine rich tonal character, precision craftsmanship, and elegant aesthetics. His work bridges the heritage of Spanish guitar building with a distinctly personal touch, honed over decades of study, experimentation, and mentorship. The influence of Granada, his teachers, and above all, Rolf Eichinger, continues to resonate through every guitar that bears his name.