BACKGROUND

The "La Cañada" series of guitars is a collaborative effort between world-renowned master luthier Edmund Blochinger and his friend Wolfgang Jellinghaus of "Milestones" guitars - which is known for its variety of period-style replica guitars of iconic makers from the 18th and 19th centuries. For the "La Cañada" series, Blochinger has studied, measured and evaluated several original instruments of Antonio de Torres and Miguel Rodriguez over the years and felt it was a great opportunity to take several of his favorite plans to Jellinghaus for the purpose of creating a line of high-quality, but affordable instruments based on these iconic masterpieces of the past. The lineup currently includes two Antonio de Torres and one Miguel Rodriguez model. The first of the two Torres models is based on a first-epoch Torres (FE 17 – ex Tarrega) and the other on a second epoch Torres from 1888 (SE 115 – ex Pujol). The plantillas and structural details are considerably different from one another and offer two distinct experiences of playing a contemporary guitar built in two of the great classic, vintage styles. The Rodriguez model is based on Celedonio Romero's 1974 churchdoor guitar, also known as "La Catedral" which is now in the possession of Pepe Romero. Hand-built to Blochinger’s specifications in Jellinghaus’ small facility in China, these are small-production, concert-level instruments made with select and beautiful materials and French polished finish. Additionally, the Torres models are offered with either an "antiqued" look or "new" look. At this price point these are a great value for the serious student or concert player on a limited budget.

DESCRIPTION

The "Model 17A" ("A" for "antiqued" look) is based largely on an 1864 Torres, known as "FE 17" - the earliest of Tarrega’s 3 Torres instruments that he would play throughout his career – this is a charming, first-epoch style guitar with a slightly more compact body size and shorter scale length. Its smaller size and lightweight build is a bit deceptive at first – but once you pluck the first note, it has a huge sound, very full and robust with great lyrical charm in the trebles and fat basses - rich in overtones across the entire register. Startlingly easy to play, the comfortable neck shape and fast response make this a true players guitar.