Lorenzo Frignani – 2022 No. 248

Description

Lorenzo Frignani’s general interest in luthiery began at the end of the 1970s. His professional experience started in 1986 and since then he has received numerous prizes on both a national and international level. He has also won several lute-making competitions (Bagnacavallo and Baveno) in Italy and has been a member of various national and international juries (Baveno, Pisogne, Sesto Fiorentino) in Italy. He is consultant of several foundations, associations and museums of musical character and was also artistic consultant of the Comune of Pieve di Cento (Bologna) for all activities relating to stringed instruments (exhibitions, conventions, courses, concerts, etc). Lorenzo Frignani it is President of the A.L.I Professionisti ( Professional Italian Association of Luthery).His primary activities are the production and restoration of fretted and bow instruments.He is publisher and he founded the LF Editions in 2007 and has written and edited various catalogues as well as several publications on the themes of classical luthery and antique plucked instruments and he is also a renowned collector and expert. He lives and works in Modena (Italy).

What a guitar! Now, how often does one see a bear-claw spruce top like this? It is of exceptional quality and gives this guitar a particular value and unique look. Moreover, the Indian rosewood set used for back and sides is so distinctive through its color and figuration. It is simply beautiful and, given the quality, colour and grain, could just as easily be Brazilian rosewood.
Lorenzo Frignani found inspiration for this wonderful instrument number 248 in the guitars of David Rubio. Using Rubio’s plantilla and ideal of sound, he adapted the internal construction and opted for a traditional “x-bracing”, the hallmark of Lorenzo Frignani’s guitars. Finally, the mother of pearl dots in the rosette and headstock and the many refined marquetry details make this instrument a true gem.

The sound exhibits a great overall balance, with deep and rich basses. It is well attuned to the richness of tone color but does not compromise the tonal vigor and lightness of playing. The treble sings beautifully and overall, the character of this Italian masterpiece is reminiscent of guitars from days long gone, which may be in no small part due to Lorenzo Frignani’s large collection of antique guitars; a unique sonic universe full of inspiration for a knowledgeable master luthier of his class.