Description
Born in 1961, Olivier Planchon discovered the classical and flamenco guitar at the age of 13. After studying at the École Supérieure d’Art Graphique de Paris, he worked as a freelance artistic director in communication and publishing. In 1999, he gives himself 5 years to design and build concert guitars and begins an informal apprenticeship with his friend Daniel Lesueur, who introduces him to Daniel Freiderich. Encouraged by these two renowned luthiers, Olivier set up a workshop near Paris where he made his first concert guitars. In 2007, he is awarded the title of Meilleur ouvrier de France. Since 2008, he has been working in the hinterland of Nice, where he has set up a large workshop with his partner, the ceramic sculptor Karine Benvenuti. A few words about his background and his Philosophy:
“Daniel Lesueur taught me about the love of labor in search of perfection. Having been himself apprenticed by Daniel Friedrich, he shared with me his secrets and those he had learned from his « master ». To dive into the imagining and manufacture of a classical guitar seems something of mystical initiation. The utmost in concentration is required to follow along the long path arriving at, perhaps, a « great » instrument. My idea of a great instrument, first of all, is one that is true to my tastes, more so than passing fashions. Throughout my research I’ve tried to find the answers to problems that could not be explained by my mentors. As in all artistic works, the questions are never-ending, and in that is the joy of the craft – every day brings a fresh discovery. Humility before the breathing material and the absolutes of acoustics linked to these variegated woods is the core of the luthier trade. I feel somewhat like a sculptor in sound. »
This guitar is a beauty with a unique design. The inlaid rosette is totally improvised by Olivier Planchon at the time of construction and is therefore different for each guitar. This is Olivier’s grand concert model, featuring a unique traditional bracing, deeply rooted in the French tradition. This cedar top model has a full and round sound with great character and impressive sustain. The playability is excellent, and it has all the characteristics worthy of a great concert guitar.
Luthier: | Olivier Planchon |
Construction year: | 2020 |
Top: | Cedar |
Body and sides: | Indian rosewood |
Scale: | 650 mm |
Nut: | 52 mm |
Weight: | 1703 Grams |
Air resonance frequency: | A |