Julián Gómez Ramírez

Julián Gómez Ramírez (1879–1943) was a Spanish luthier from Madrid whose work played a pivotal role in shaping the modern French school of guitar making. He began his apprenticeship at the age of 13 in the workshop of Augustín Andrés and later worked for José Ramírez I and Manuel Ramírez, whose influence is evident in his later instruments. In 1914, Gómez Ramírez moved to Paris, becoming France’s first representative of Spanish guitar craftsmanship. His guitars, inspired by the fan-braced designs of Antonio de Torres, offered greater power and tonal richness than the smaller romantic instruments then in vogue. His artistry gained the admiration of musicians and makers alike, notably crafting a guitar for Ida Presti and another for Robert Bouchet in 1938, whom he also introduced to lutherie. Through his work and mentorship, Gómez Ramírez laid the foundation for a new era in French 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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Early Career and Influences

Julián Gómez Ramírez was born in Madrid in 1879. At the age of just thirteen, he began his apprenticeship in the workshop of Augustín Andrés. In 1910, he joined the workshop of José Ramírez I, where he worked for four years. However, the guitars he built during the 1930s bore far greater resemblance to the instruments of Manuel Ramírez than to those of José. According to Robert Bouchet, Julián Gómez Ramírez had indeed worked for Manuel Ramírez in Madrid before establishing himself in Paris.

Move to Paris and Rise to Prominence

In 1914, Gómez Ramírez moved to Paris, where he became the first luthier to introduce and represent the Spanish school of guitar making in France. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era in the Parisian guitar scene, bridging traditional Spanish craftsmanship with French artistry.

Historical Testimony

In a 1920s account by Jan and Cora Gordon, the influence of Antonio de Torres on Gómez Ramírez is clearly reflected:

“The best guitar maker of the time lives here. His name is Ramirez. He has found a new shape for the guitar—finer, more powerful. Each one is like a real Torres. Come with me. I will show you one or two that he made from an old piano, which he tore apart for its wood. Exquisite.”

“Ramírez builds his instruments almost on the street. His workshop was about ten feet in size, with a door six feet wide. Here was a piece of pure Spain… Ramírez’s workshop was not what we had expected. I think that in a place where fine instruments are made, a certain cleanliness, a certain finesse is rightfully expected.” – Jan and Cora Gordon.

Legacy and Influence

Gómez Ramírez’s innovative approach to Spanish guitar making was widely admired. His fan-braced guitars produced a fuller, more powerful sound than the smaller-bodied romantic guitars that had fallen out of favor in Paris due to the piano’s growing dominance in salon music. His craftsmanship earned him the honor of building the first concert guitar for Ida Presti and another for Robert Bouchet in 1938. Furthermore, he introduced Bouchet to the art of lutherie, laying the foundation for the 20th-century French school of guitar making and influencing generations of European luthiers.