Marco Bortolozzo

Marco Bortolozzo is an Italian luthier of the new generation whose journey from a tool-loving childhood to professional guitar making is unmistakably shaped by creativity and passion. Growing up surrounded by craftsmanship and music, he built his first instrument—a self-made electric bass—as a teenager. His studies in industrial design provided him with a strong foundation in materials and production processes. A pivotal moment came when he met luthier Dario Pontiggia, who introduced him to the legacy of Antonio de Torres. Today, Bortolozzo builds guitars inspired by the great masters of the past, with his instruments being played on several continents.

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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Marco Bortolozzo – Luthier

Early Life and First Encounters with Music

I was born in the early eighties in a small Italian country town. I grew up surrounded by vineyards, vegetable gardens, and dismantled engines. Coming from a family of hardworking people, I learned early from my father how to handle all kinds of tools. As a child, I built wooden machines and dismantled (and reassembled) bicycles.

I don’t remember exactly when I first realized that music was something great, but I do remember that in 1995 my cousin, who lived across the street, owned a powerful stereo system and, above all, a beautiful Gibson Les Paul.

At the age of 14, music became an essential part of my life, and like many teenagers, I studied guitar and started playing with friends.

First Instrument and Educational Journey

At that time, for every 20 guitarists, there were about 2 bass players and 1 drummer – so necessity led me to the electric bass. At first, I borrowed one, and later I built my own: the first musical instrument I ever made.

Years passed, and I enrolled at university to study industrial design. These years were fundamental for my development as a luthier, as I learned about production processes, design stages, materials, and manufacturing methods. I spent five years in a fantastic environment filled with creativity in all its forms.

Turning Point and Mentorship

Toward the end of my studies, I realized that guitars do not only come from factories but also from craftsmen who manage to make their living building beautiful instruments. So I decided to meet one. I chose a name randomly from the yellow pages and visited his workshop the next day: the luthier was Dario Pontiggia.

Dario was immediately very kind and began telling me the story of Antonio de Torres. After an hour of conversation, I understood that this profession was “what I want to do when I grow up.”

Today as a Professional Luthier

Today I am grown up, and I am a professional luthier. Guitars have become my life. I have built many – the result of passion and the study of the great guitar makers of the past. These guitars are now all over the world and played across several continents. This is the aspect of my work that makes me the most proud.