A meeting with the future guitarists and guitar makers of the country.
On Wednesday 26 March 2025, Guitarras Ramírez had the privilege of visiting the Royal Conservatory of Music of Madrid to share with the students his vision and experience on the construction of the handmade Spanish guitar. It is important for performers to know the work involved in making an instrument so that they value craftsmanship and know how to differentiate it from other forms of work. The invitation came from the guitarist and professor Pedro Jesús Gómez, whom we are deeply grateful to for opening the doors of his classroom and for encouraging learning spaces connected to tradition and professional practice.
A lesson from the tradition of 1761
During the talk, we offered a detailed exposition of the artisanal process of creating a Spanish guitar, from its materials to its final assembly. We did so from our heritage at The Madrid School of Guitarmakers, whose history dates back to 1761, a legacy that we at Guitarras Ramírez have kept alive for more than 140 years.
We explain step by step the elements involved in the process of building a guitar, emphasising the importance of the selection of the woods, the care in the assembly of the body and the meticulousness in the decorative details, which make each instrument unique.
The deconstructed guitar as a pedagogical resource
One of the most special moments of the day was when we presented our deconstructed guitar, the same one we used for the Flamenco Chipén exhibition. This piece, divided into visible and separate parts, allowed us to clearly show the different sections that make up the instrument. From the neck to the soundboard, the students were able to see up close how each element fulfils a specific acoustic and structural function.
The magic of handmade mosaic
Another highlight was the demonstration of the process of creating the mosaic that decorates the soundhole of the guitar. We took away a sample in progress, so that the students could appreciate not only the final result, but also the tools and techniques necessary for its elaboration. This mosaic, handmade with small pieces of wood, is one of the hallmarks of our guitars and a symbol of our dedication to detail.
An experience that leaves its mark
Our visit to the Royal Conservatory was, without a doubt, an enriching experience for both parties. For the students, it was an opportunity to learn first-hand the secrets of a craft with centuries of history. For us, it was a real honour to be able to share what we do and, above all, to see the genuine interest and curiosity with which the students participated.
At Guitarras Ramírez we firmly believe in the transmission of knowledge, in the importance of keeping history alive and in sharing our work with the new generations who will give continuity to this art.
