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June 2002 |
Dear Subscriber,
It's been so long since I've written I've completely lost track of what I've told you up to now. But no matter, I'll just mention some things that are going on around here. If I repeat myself, well it will probably only get worse with age. I'll make up for it by forgetting other things, I'm sure.
Estudio model in Acoustic Guitar Magazine:
In the latest issue of Acoustic Guitar Magazine July 2002 #115, they reviewed 16 classical guitars in the "under $1,500.00 category" and we submitted our Palo Escrito Guitarra de Estudio for evaluation. I'm proud to say that we did very well. In fact, it seems we are the favorite. I was hoping for this, because that is exactly the idea behind this model guitar. It's supposed to be the very very best classical guitar that can still be sold at student price ($1,195.00). It was designed to sound, play and look good, and be reasonably priced. I think we did it. Come to think of it, that's what all of our guitars are supposed to be. I wish to give credit to the fine guitar makers in Mexico who are crafting this guitar for us, and to the workshop here in California that takes great pains to see that these instruments are in the best possible condition when they go out. Also thank you very much to Acoustic Guitar Magazine for their flattering attention!
If you would like to know where you can try a Guitarra de Estudio, or any of the other fine guitars we are producing, or if you have any questions at all call (800) 262-8858 or e-mail us at khill@hillguitar.com.
New Models, made in California:
| ANNOUNCING ! |
As for other new models-here in our shop in California we have been very busy developing two wonderful and contrasting guitars. First we have done a very close copy of a guitar of Miguel Rodriguez, who lived in Córdoba, Spain from 1888c.-1975. Second, we are making an Antonio de Torres style guitar modeled after the FE 12 instrument made in Seville in 1860, and pictured in Romanillos' book on Torres. These instruments are from two grand - and opposite - traditions: the Rodriguez is rather large and romantic, while the Torres is quite petite and precise. Both are concert grade instruments, both made here in our custom shop in California. They have a list price of $3,495.00.
Speaking of custom, we had a special order for a London model with 8 strings. The London is modeled after an 1835 Panormo guitar, and it's by far the smallest guitar that we make, so at first I was skeptical, but I decided to go for it. It turned out so intriguing in feel and look, and for 
some reason the combination of the small body, the short string length (630mm) and the extra tension and bass from the two additional low strings makes for a unique and very musical instrument. I'm glad we tried it. It's grand. We should do it again.
At the opposite extreme of the design spectrum, we are also developing a new model with a hi-tech sound board and some other modern features all rolled into one. It, too, is fascinating, I will tell you more about this development when we have them available.
Yet another new thing that we are working on is a smaller, narrow neck guitar, aimed at steel string players who want a good nylon string instrument, but can't handle the wide classical neck. We are making a version of the Torres guitar with a 1 7/8'' nut to accommodate crossover players. It's really fun to play, and is continuing to evolve. The first one went to Acoustic Music in Salt Lake City. Call them, and try it out. (801) 531-7066
If this all variety seems sort if dizzying, maybe it is. But we are accumulating some real talent in this organization, and it's exciting to see all of these different guitars come to life. I'm amazed and enlivened at how many ways there are to make really fine, satisfying instruments. In the end, the only thing that counts is results, and I am thrilled with our results.
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As I write this we are preparing for the second "hands-on guitar making" course for this year, beginning June 15th. there MAY be room for one more in this class, and there is still one space left in the September class. These classes are great fun, even profound. I still haven't decided if I'll teach any classes in 2003. Whaddaya think I should do? |
Travel in Europe, Mexico and China:
I've done a bit of traveling this year for business, including my first trip the the Musik Messe, the gigantic music trade show in Frankfurt 
Germany. Afterward we were able to visit Benelly Music in the Netherlands. They are my biggest distributor in Europe, and Ben and Elly Van der Smaan are two of my favorite people in Europe. Call them for guitars. (070 365 46 81)
I'm leaving for Mexico tomorrow. We are making some very fine guitars there. My associate there are master craftsmen, and incredibly hard working. I'm proud of them, I think it's time to go out to dinner together and be grateful.
I also went to China for two weeks in May. It was amazing, to say the least, but I'll have to tell you about that some other time. Stay tuned.
Thanks for listening. I know I'm leaving lots out, but I'll make up for it by repeating myself about something or other. Thanks for all of your support. Call or e-mail any time. KEEP PLAYING. WE NEED MUSIC MORE THAN EVER.
Kenny Hill
June 4, 2002
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