Gerhard J. Oldiges – 2013

Description

Gerhard Oldiges started to build guitars in the late seventies while studying and after graduating he completed a two-year apprenticeship as a guitar maker. After that, he first worked in a guitar repair workshop and took part in a guitar-making course given by José Romanillos in 1988, with whom he is still friends today and whose courses he has regularly attended since 1996. Gerhard Oldiges is intensively engaged in the history of the Spanish guitar building. Thus, a special focus of his work is the replication of old Spanish master instruments by Antonio de Torres, Vicente Arias, Manuel Ramírez, and others.

What a wonderful instrument inspired by one of the very last guitars made by the great luthier Francisco Simplicio (1874-1932) from Barcelona. Many details of the appearance and construction of the 1931 Francisco Simplicio guitar, bearing the number 327, have been faithfully reproduced, while Gérhard Oldiges also took the liberty of adding his own personal touch. The three-piece back made of the finest Brazilian rosewood is simply outstanding and presents an unmistakable color pattern. The soundboard, made of torrefied spruce, has furthermore developed a gorgeous honey color. Torrefaction reproduces the dryness and thus the response of a wood that has been dried for decades, offering a special response and excellent tone. Last but not least, this instrument is in perfect condition and is fitted with high-end Scheller tuning machines that have been intricately engraved by hand in Germany.

Easy to play, balanced in sound, powerful and rich, as well as sensitive and responsive, these are just some of the qualities of this fascinating Oldiges guitar. The qualities also include an impressive variety of sound colors and the possibilities of use that come with them. These timbres not only excel in their variety but also in their elegance and refinement. One can easily switch from a cello-like to a sound similar to the oboe while maintaining a breathtaking quality and richness within the timbre. Because of its expressiveness and projection, it can of course be used in concert and in front of an audience. This Simplicio model by Gerhard Oldiges is a real jewel, both for its craftsmanship and for its exceptional and timeless sound qualities.