Hermann Hauser ® I – 1924

Description

Hermann Hauser ® I is one of the most famous luthiers of classical guitar history. His guitar made for Andrés Segovia in 1937 is seen as one of the best guitars ever made and was described by the Spanish virtuoso as “greatest guitar of our epoch”. Later played by Julian Bream and the Abreu brothers among many other emblematic guitarists of all generations, Hermann Hauser ® I guitars are amongst the most sought after and collectible guitars.

Hermann Hauser ® I took over the instrument workshop of his father while Josef Hauser ® was still managing the music publishing house. Hermann Hauser ® I specialised in making lutes and guitars but also remained true to the construction of zithers. In the context of the Guitaristic Movement in Bavaria, Hermann Hauser ® I built a large number of different guitars; in particular the Vienna models and the Munich models in all kinds of forms, but all in absolute perfection. The Terz, Prim and the very rare Quintbass guitars of Hermann Hauser ® I are of highest quality. Even today, the sound of those instruments is still unsurpassed. Based on his special virtuosity, Hermann Hauser ® I developed technical, patented innovations in the area of construction of the guitar’s tops and body-neck connections. The Spanish virtuosi Miguel Llobet and Andres Segovia became attentive to Hermann Hauser ® I’s art of making guitars at the beginning of the 20th century.

This guitar is a spectacular example of Hermann Hauser ® I’s excellence in Viennese guitar making. It was built in 1921 and is a rare Viennese model with a Patented top (D.R.P. Nr.339867). Despite its smaller body size, this superb one-century-old guitar has a big voice. The clarity of sound, impressive power, and transparency in the phrasing make it a genuinely charismatic and fascinating instrument. Moreover, with only two very well repaired cracks on the soundboard and minor playing marks, it is an inspiring guitar to play which any player or collector would be proud to own.