This is part two of a three-part series about archtop guitars: their past, present and future.
Archtop guitars have been a staple of the American music scene for more than a century. Known for their versatility and beautiful sound, they can be played in a wide variety of genres. Many famous musicians have played these classic instruments, such as Wes Montgomery (jazz), Ted Nugent (rock), Joe Pass (jazz, worked with Ella Fitzgerald) and Pete Townshend (rock, guitarist for The Who).
Luthiers and guitar manufacturers have expanded on Orville Gibson’s work and made refinements of their own. While there are still strides being made in guitar craftsmanship and technology, there are also many luthiers out there who make hand-carved archtop guitars. More and more musicians are having customized archtop guitars made, and the sky is the limit in terms of what can be customized. From the type of wood used for the body to the bridge, frets, pick guard and more, luthiers are able to make archtop guitars that meet the precise specifications of the musician they are making it for.
There are also plenty of luthiers out there who push the envelope when it comes to archtop guitar making. They experiment with a variety of modifications and designs, and there are even some out there working to combine the flat-top guitar with the archtop.
Customized archtop guitars are a great choice for those who are serious about their guitar playing. Even if a musician only plays for fun, customizing an archtop guitar gives them control over what their new guitar will sound like and look like after the luthier is done.
This is the second part in a three-part series about archtop guitars. You can read Part One here. Stay tuned for part three!
Are you interested in learning more about how to get a customized jazz archtop guitar for yourself or a loved one? Call Fine Archtops at 612-366-7120 or you can Contact Us.