Jose Ramirez
Jose Ramirez Guitars
The Luthier - Jose Ramirez
José Ramírez I began his training in the workshop of Francisco González in 1870. He soon became independent and in 1882 he opened his workshop. First it was in the Rastro and later in Concepción Jerónima Street number 2. From that very moment a tradition began that was passed down from parents to children until reaching the current 4th and 5th generations. At the moment, Cristina and José Enrique Ramírez, are running the company under the supervision of Amalia Ramírez.
Little by little, José Ramírez’s workshop became a key cog in the Madrid School of Guitar makers, thanks to the improvements they applied to the instrument and the training of professionals who worked in his workshop, who later became independent.
Today it is considered to be one of the most important Spanish guitar makers in the world and the oldest company in the direct line (from father to son), as evidenced by the plaque “Comercios Centenarios” that the City Council of Madrid placed at its entrance. This centenary trajectory endorses our title of experts in the Spanish guitar (flamenco and classical) at the service of the guitarist.
Our philosophy is based on five words, which constitute five of our basic pillars and represent our five generations of guitar makers:
Tradition, Experience, Quality, Innovation and Professionalism.
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1984 654 Scale Ramirez 1A Class 1A Serial No 18118 Cedar top without case
Description:
The epitome of Spanish concert guitars Ramirez is the powerhouse of Spanish guitar making. The 1A is at the pinnacle of the Ramirez Workshop, who have set the standard in guitar making since 1882. It displays all the hall marks of a 1A Colour, full bodied exquisite trebles and warm ringing rich basses and velvety mid-range.
This guitar was made in ‘84 when with Andres Segovia at the peak of his powers dominated the concert stage and where Segovia went all other concert guitarists followed.
This is the model played by most of the concert guitarist throughout the 20 Century including Andres Segovia, Narciso Yepes, Agustin Barrios, Julian Bream, Christopher Parkening, winner of many prizes and used in countless recordings.
The guitar resonates with a powerful, deep and colourful sound and best balance and sustain.
Woods were well seasoned and very selected in the workshop in ’83 now they are unobtainable. The rosette and details of marquetry are of the highest quality.
Condition Report:
In good condition with only minor wear and no cracks
Playability is superb, bold and resonant, distinct Spanish bases warm and mysterious, ringing trebles beautiful sustain across all registers. With a ringing and distinct mid-range.
Daniel Nistico’s review said “A very Special rare guitar Vintage 1A Ramirez. Classic Spanish guitar played by Segovia, Christpher parcening etc. It is fantastic one, the action is very low and is very playable.
It has that iconic middy sound..velvety sound. It speaks for itself plays Capricho Arabe to let the guitar speak for itself
Features:
Maker: Jose Ramirez
Year: 1984
Top: Cedar
Back/Sides: Rosewood
Scale length: 65.4 cm
Nut width: 52 cm