Stefan Nitschke

Stefan Nitschke – Guitar Maker

When I was eleven years old, I began playing the guitar, and since then this instrument has never let me go. After a brief phase of classical guitar lessons, I wanted to play electric guitar and spent several years exploring blues, rock, and jazz. When I realized that I wanted more from and with the guitar, I returned to classical guitar and soon discovered my preference for Tárrega and other composers of the early 20th century.

Building the First Guitar

In 2002, I began my studies at the University of Music in Osnabrück. My teacher, Ulrich Müller, not only helped me improve my guitar playing but also encouraged me to build my first instrument. The goal was clear: I wanted to build a guitar. I constructed my first guitar on the living room carpet at home. I was thrilled – and my teacher, Ulrich Müller, was also impressed with my first results. I couldn’t wait to build the next instrument.

Learning from Gerhard Oldiges

Around that time, I met Gerhard Oldiges. He allowed me to occasionally watch him work and ask many questions. My thirst for knowledge grew, and I realized that I had found an experienced luthier in Gerhard. We met several times in his workshop, and through hours of intense conversations I learned the essential craftsmanship and artistic requirements needed for high-quality instruments.

Combining Studies and Craft

In 2004, I continued my studies at the Academy of Music in Darmstadt with Olaf van Gonnissen. When I sold my third guitar shortly after completing it, I realized that guitar making should become more than just a hobby for me. Highly motivated, I tried to work as a guitar maker alongside my studies. Despite the considerable investment of time and energy required for instrument making, I successfully completed my studies in 2007 and obtained my concert diploma two years later.

Philosophy and Passion

Over the years, I tested every guitar I could get my hands on and searched for inspiration. That’s how I discovered my passion for the sound of the old masters. My greatest motivation in guitar making is still the process itself: when the instrument takes shape from raw materials and I can shape the sound closer and closer to my personal ideal – even if I may never fully achieve that ideal sound.