I build my guitars one or two at the time using traditional methods and materials in great respect of the "old masters". At the same time I'm aware of what is being expected from a guitar at the beginning of the 21st Century when it comes to being used in concerts or for recordings.

I strive for the same sort of refinement and workmanship that I have seen in the instruments from makers such as: Antonio de Torres, Garcia, Simplicio, Hauser Sr. in Germany; Daniel Friedrich in France; and also modern U.S. makers such as Jeffery R. Elliott or Robert Ruck.

Partly I have been influenced by traditional Japanese culture when it comes to the way I approach guitar making. Emphasis must be put on the word - "Way". In Japan they speak of - "the Way of Tea", "the Way of writing", "the Way of the Flower" and so on. For me there is a "Way of Guitar Making" which has a deeper meaning then just describing an occupation or the finished item.


The higher imperative in this case is the music being played on the instrument. When the music touches our heart and soul there is a human contact between composer, performer, the listening audience, the instrument maker and the mutual joy and pleasure of these people for a short moment in life. Those moments are to me more important and interesting than to debate about which bracing system might be "the best". If you are looking for an instrument where you can sense this kind of passion for the work that has been put into the instrument, then it's your turn to contribute with your love for playing the guitar.



Tobias Berg