Let me just say that I never thought that buying a guitar over the phone/internet could be such a positive experience. The time you spent discussing the various guitars that I was interested in and the sound files that you sent were invaluable in making my decision. Certainly the next best thing to being there in person. The Giambattista is one fine instrument for sure. Everyone who has seen and played it, myself included, has been very impressed. I'm certain that the G6 and I have a long and happy relationship ahead of us.
Cheers, and thanks again!
Gregg Charbonneau
May 2011
Lee, MA
Dear Bob and Mike:
The Picado 49 arrived today undamaged. The outer box was a bit scuffed, but the packing materials proved adequate for the trip to Chicago. After tuning up the guitar and striking the first notes, I simply could not believe my ears! The warm full tone combined with the volume and projection make this, by far, the best acoustic guitar I have ever played, and much much better than anything I found in the local guitar stores. The case is nice, and well constructed for this guitar. I am keeping it! Sold!
Your website is informative and helpful. I especially like the search feature based on price, and your editorials about each guitar are interesting and informative. The sound files that you sent are of excellent quality, played beautifully, and quiet influential in my decision to select the cedar soundboard Picado 49. Your objective discussion with me on the phone gave me confidence that I was dealing with an honest and experienced store. I would recommend you to anyone without hesitation.
Thanks,
Bobby Keyes
October 2009
Chicago
Bob,
My fingers are raw, I didn???t put the model 54 Picado down since I brought it home, found myself talking to it on the drive back to Alexandria. Seriously though, I wanted to thank you and your staff for all the assistance and I very much appreciated dealing with true professionals who love what they do, it was quite evident.
Joe Scheid
October 2009
Alexandria, VA
Dear Bob,
Thank you for collecting such a wonderful selection of great classical guitars! And thank you Michael for your very professional assistance in helping me choose my new Antonio Picado 60. I love this instrument! It has such a wonderful tonal quality, such brilliance of sound and great projection. Every single note has such beauty of tone! Superlatives don't do this instrument justice. My playing has never sounded so good. I am enchanted. Thank you.
Michael Walker
September 2009
Clearwater, Florida
I just wanted to tell you that I am thrilled with the sound and playabilty of my new G6. It wasn't until I got it home and really "dug in" to playing it that I began to appreciate it, fully. The balance, tone, resonance and sustain are very impressive and I am happily surprised by the way it "speaks," even in passages marked pianissimo.
As a lifelong musician who has only been studying classical guitar for two years, it has always been frustrating that my ear is developed well beyond my technique on the instrument, but the wonderful sound of the Giambattista closes the gap a little more and only increases my desire to practice.
Chris Matarazzo
October 2007
Stratford, NJ
Bob
It has been about a month and a half since I visited your store and purchased my Dupont Conservatoire. You probably figured out that I fell in love with the instrument during that afternoon in your store. I am pleased to report that I am still in love with my Dupont.
I played seven or eight guitars in the same price range and found the Dupont to be far superior in tone quality and projection.
The only instrument that I tried that was superior was the Dupont Prelude at half again the price. I was certainly tempted by the Prelude, but in the end I felt that my abilities simply weren't up to the quality of the instrument. They are not up to the Conservatoire either, but at least it is a closer match and a continuing inspiration.
Thank you for your assistance with my purchase.
Bob Sillars
September 2007
Clarence, NY
Dear Bob and Staff,
Ive been playing my new Giambattista 60th anniversary model for more than a month now, and it sounds better every day. Not only does it have the great clarity and seperation one expects from a spruce soundboard; the tone has a mellowness usually associated with cedar tops. Baroque and Spanish repertoire sound equally great on this beautifully crafted instrument.
Thank you for all your advice and patience in helping me choose this fine example of the luthiers art. Referrals are forthcoming.
Sincerely,
Michael Frazier
Michael Frazier
August 2007
Pittsburgh, Pa.
Hello Robert and John,
Thursday night we all waited outside in the garage for the UPS truck.
When David saw the box come out of the truck he was thrilled.
He emmediatly opened it and played his new Giambattista G6.
All he said was "sweet"
When I heard the Guitar I knew that I had found the Right people to trust. Your knowlege of classical guitars is wonderful and this comes across on your web site.
Although I do not know a lot about guitars I do know when one sounds better than another.
Wow!
The Alvarez was dead and my instincts to trust you about the Giambattista were right on.
As David"s guitar teacher said: "There isn't a little differance, there is a HUGE
difference".
We thank you and although we feel we know you well I have to say, I look forward to meeting you one day soon.
All the best
Sarah, Charles and David.
Sarah Blanc
November 2006
New Canaan, CT
The Picado "Concierto" guitar I ordered arrived on schedule and, so far as I can determine, arrived unharmed.
Of course I want to keep it. It is a beautiful instrument and is plainly capable of far more than I can presently evoke from it.
I appreciate the responsiveness and promptness of service.
Sincerely,
Michael Fontenot
August 2006
Louisianna
Received the Fouilleul guitar yesterday afternoon and have decided to keep it.
It is exactly what I have been looking for in terms of color palate, resonance, and playability. I really adore this guitar!
I appreciate your great service and the integrity of instruments that you offer to the performer.
Many thanks,
Gwendolyn Faasen
May 2006
Grand Rapids, MI
Mr. Castelluccia & Artists:
I recently purchased a Giambattista G8 from Robert Page at The Guitar Store in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, your distributor.
First, let me compliment you on the selection of Robert Page and The Guitar Store as your United States distributor. Theirs is a comfortable store well maintained and attractively arranged. Mr. Page is excited about representing your instruments. He personally assisted me in making a choice as I was visiting his shop in Philadelphia in December of 2005 (my 5th visit in 8 years).
Second, I am also excited about the Giambattista guitar. I acknowledge the fact that this instrument is a ?student guitar,? however, the craftsmanship, playability and sonority of the G8 is far superior to may higher priced ?concert? instruments. I don?t know how you do it for the price.
Therefore, on behalf of all the students who will, by your having offered a guitar of such excellent quality, be able to afford a beautiful sounding, well constructed guitar, ?Thank you?!
Roger Watkins
January 2006
Greenville, NC
Bob,
Just wanted to tell you how much Colin has been enjoying his new Armin Hanika guitar. All his various teachers have given it high marks, and his peers, even the ones with pricier instruments, think it's a great machine. He loves playing it, polishes it maniacally, and is able to do so much more on it than he ever dreamed was possible.
The entire experience at your shop was memorable, and I guarantee that when the day comes that he's ready to move up (I pray that'll be a few years), you'll find us again at your quaint door.
Richard Fullerton
January 2006
Winston Salem, NC
Dear Bob:
I received both guitars Friday evening. The G8 is a winner, as you predicted. I had my teacher, Randy Reed, evaluate it by playing blindfolded and comparing it to his Rozas and the Vowinkle.
The volume, clarity and sustain were exceptional, equaling that of the Rozas, and the bass was well integrated with the treble. Randy valued the G8 at the $3,500 to $4,000 range and he's seen a lot of instruments in his concertizing and teaching activities.
Having hands a bit smaller than the average man's, I also appreciated the shallower neck design that facilitates fingering. The workmanship is of a high order and the lacquer job is exceptional.
When I show the G8 around the local guitar community here, you may be getting some requests. And I'm curious as to the cedar top model. Could you let me know when you get one in?
I'd also like to thank John Penn for his help in this long distance transaction.
You've got a new and loyal customer here!
Cordially,
George
George Oberlander
October 2005
Duke University, North Carolina
Bob,
I received the Picado Model 53 in good form as expected. I love it, and it sounds
great. What more can I say?
However, being an engineer, experienced wood
worker and some exposure to the luthier's art, I can see that this guitar
was made by a master of his craft. Believe me, I have looked at a lot of the
so-called production classical guitars. This kind of workmanship and
beautiful tone will not be found on those guitars. Internally, the notched
kerfing, nicely shaped & sanded bracing, shaping of the neck block and
attention to those details inside the guitar speak to this kind of quality.
And of course, on the exterior it is beautiful with equal quality. Please
let Mr. Picado know of my satisfaction. Again, thanks for your help, and
expect me to be a returning customer.
Sincerely,
PS: The only problem I can foresee is the potential for needing to have it
surgically removed from my hands at some point in time. Not a bad problem!
Henry Carpender
August 2005
South Carolina
Dear Bob and John,
First, I would like to say that I think that your store is fantastic. I have never had such a pleasant experience.
The Cervantes I purchased is a delight to play. It even sounds better at home.
Thank you for all the time that you spent with me. Needless to say, if I know of anyone looking to purchase a new guitar, I will send them your way.
Again, thank you for your time and patience.
Sincerely,
Sandy Protich
August 2005
Newport News, VA
I just wanted to say a tremendous THANKS for making my most major guitar purchase
to date (and perhaps my lifetime) a most positive experience. I'm not even
sure where to begin.
I came in with a specific guitar and budget in mind and you respected them
both, while gently offering me your expertise and opinions, (not to mention
anecdotes). From the moment I walked in I felt respected and knew that you
would help me find the 'right' guitar for me and not push me into something
that would help 'move your stock'. I felt cared for, which does not happen
all that often at other music stores. I live much closer to New York city,
but it was well worth the drive, getting lost and I even got a flat tire on
the way home on the Turnpike!!! But none of it dimmed my mood as I knew that
when I got home I would get to play my new Picado, (a brand I had not even
heard much about until you or played until that day).
Which brings me to the guitar itself! Again I am speechless. After numerous
models and quick switching back and forth, the Picado was the clear winner
that sang to me. Deep, bold, clear, loud, warm are just the beginning. I
hear more than I ever thought I would in just one night with it. It's more
than beautifully made as well and I look forward to many, many years with
it!
Thanks again and I'll be certain to recommend you and the Picado's to any
and everyone I come across.
Thanks again and again,
Mark
Mark Berkley
May 2005
New Jersey
Greetings,
I just wanted to let you know that the Giambattista G6 guitar I ordered arrived yesterday safe and sound. My guitar teacher gave it a thorough test drive today and was very impressed with the quality of the instrument. In his opinion it is comparable to guitars priced much higher elsewhere. It is a keeper! Thank you to John for helping me sort out the various issues and end up with a great guitar.
Thanks again,
Steve
?
?
Steve Saunders
February 2005
Oregon
Hello from Phoenix,
I got my Lucida 777 the week before Christmas, and I just love it. I play it every day, sometimes twice a day, and already my technique is developing in a way that it never did when I practiced in college. It's so enjoyable to have a real Spanish instrument, made "in the tradition." It is just so much nicer an instrument than any of the Japanese or other guitars (many costing quite a bit more,) on the racks here, with better workmanship, woods, voice and playability. I even tried a $1700 Ramirez (the only one in town that I saw displayed in a store,) and quite honestly it did not really sound any better than my Lucida, and it seemed harder for the left hand.
Oddly, there is not a true classical guitar store like yours here, so I may be contacting you again. I love the Lucida so much, but it's made me curious about many of the other guitars you have. I might like a spruce-top instrument, for contrast, and I'm beginning to save now for that "lifetime" guitar I hope to get someday.
Thanks so much,
Michael Miller
February 2005
Phoenix, Arizona
Bob,
Just a little feedback on my quest for a new classical guitar. Last
Wednesday I made the trip to Philadelphia and spent a few hours with the
musicians at your store. It was one of the most enjoyable days I've spent
in quite some time. The guys were great and provided several new guitars
for me to test out that were all excellent.
I finally chose a Paco Marin
355. I am so happy I can hardly stand it. In summary, the guitar is great and your staff was outstanding, very helpful, and didn't criticize my woefully inept playing.
It was a pleasure doing busines with the Classical Guitar Store and I will
recommend the trip for my classical guitar playing friends in Virginia.
David Bornholdt
December 2004
Virginia
Dear Bob,
I want to thank you and your staff for the help I got in selecting my
Antonio Picado Concierto Spruce last December, it has filled my
retirement time with many hours of pleasure after too long an absence.
Thanks again,
Herb Kuhl
March 2004
Holmdel, New Jersey
THANK YOU Robert Page!!!
The Giambattista G6 is the finest instrument
I have ever played, and I've tried MANY. The workmanship is absolutely
flawless. The finish is not thick like many guitars, but looks like it
will last forever. None of that varnish build up along the sides of
the fretboard/soundboard, etc. The guitar just SINGS. I've heard
guitars that I thought *sing*, but this is a superstar diva! Volume,
clarity, rich complex tone, projection, beautiful woods and finish.
All of this at an outstanding price.
I almost forgot to mention the
wonderful fretwork. After looking inside with a mirror and flashlight,
I'm just as impressed with the interior! Not a single glob of glue, and
VERY clean workmanship.
Thank you for your patience, and thank you
for a wonderful guitar!
Your Friend,
Frank Butta
Frank Butta
February 2004
King of Prussia, PA
Dear Mr. Delarue:
I am sorry that I do not speak or write in French but I spoke with Bob Page at The Classical Guitar Store and he assured me that you would be able to read this letter. I just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying one of your guitars that I recently obtained from Bob. Early in December I traded a very nice 1A Ignacio Rozas guitar for one you produced in 2003. Your instrument has a beautiful sound and is, without question, the best guitar that I have ever had the pleasure to play. I thought that you might like to know that your work is appreciated.
Sincerely,
Rudolf Staroscik
January 2004
The Audirac concertino arrived Friday afternoon in perfect shape. It is a wonderful instrument with the great resonant and balanced sound I was looking for, and beautiful to behold as well. My playing has already improved and I'll definitely be keeping it.
Thanks for your patience and help in choosing this guitar. When buying one "long distance," one must rely upon the seller for guidance and you really came through on this one.
Thanks again.
Dr. Robert K. Alexander
January 2004
Placitas, NM
By the way, the Giambattista G8 is a beautiful instrument. I can't put it down. I've
barely touched my custom-made Brazilian Rosewood steel string guitar since I
purchased the G8.
Curtis C. Hunter III
September 2003
Pittsburgh, PA
Bob and John,
It was a great joy picking out my replacement guitar last month! It was
even more fun and a lot less traumatic the second time around. The string
spacing on the Holtier is definitely right for my hands...and the tonal quality is
also closer to the sound of my 'ideal' instrument.
I can't believe it took so many years to convince myself that I should own
a quality instrument. Now that I have one I could not imagine not owning
one. I can't get back all those years that I did not have a guitar like this truly fine instrument...all I can do is practice more...which is not a bad thing!
You were very patient with me and I appreciate all the help you gave me in
helping me get just the right guitar in terms of tonal quality, physical dimensions and price.
I wonder how anyone could possibly be comfortable buying a quality guitar
any other way than from knowledgeable guitar consultants such as
yourselves.
Phil Cipolla
August 2003
Wayne, PA
I purchased an Amarillo Conservatorio from your fine store in March of this year. I wanted you to know how pleased I am with both the guitar, and the experience of shopping at your store. Although I am a elementary player, having started in November of 2002, Mr. John Penn went out of his way to make sure that the guitar that I selected would be right for me. He spent at least 2 hours with me, listening to me playing a variety of guitars, and demonstrating a variety of guitars for me. There was no pressure, there was no rush, and it was a lot of fun.
The guitar itself is terrific. Its a joy to play.
Please be assured that The Classical Guitar Store in Philadelphia will be the only store I visit in the future for my guitar needs. Thank you and please express my appreciation to Mr. Penn.
Vincent Best
June 2003
I was playing [my new Antonio Picado No. 54] last night and realizing how much I am growing to love it. The more I play the more I love it. This is because it speaks to me, it responds. It vibrates. It is sensitive.
Here are some other observations:
It is a good size for me. It fits my body welI.
I find each string different, at least in its responsiveness to me. I especially like the sound I get all the way up the fretboard on the third and fourth strings. Maybe these are the strings that stood out to you and were part of the "intriguing" sound. I could listen to them all day.
I am working on Julia Florida by Barrios in which you drop the 6th string to D and play it open, then move up on the 5th and so on. I like how it all sounds on this guitar.
I take this to heart: "Guitars are living things, with a spirit, and are touched in their own spirit with the feelings of the people who play them."
All this to say my relationship with my guitar is off to a good start. It will get better as we become more acquainted, adjust to each other and work out our little idiosyncrasies.
Valerie Eves
June 2003
Bend, Oregon
Bob,
Just thought I'd let you know the A-Frame Guitar Support is working out
great. It doesn't take any getting used to and really makes a difference
for long practice sessions. I haven't used the footstool since I got the
A-Frame and my back feels a lot better. I'd recommend it to anyone who
thinks that the footstool may be causing back pain. Very reasonably priced
too.
Thanks for the good advice.
John Powers
May 2003
Woodbury, NJ
Bob,
Just wanted to let you know I'm really enjoying the Picado [Concierto model]!! Brilliant sound,
a broad spectrum of tonal and expressive possibilities, and a lovely
instrument.
Thanks for hooking me up!
Kevin McChesney
March 2003
An internationally known composer of church music
Dear Bob,
I purchased my Giambattista G6 at The Classical Guitar Store in
September of '02. First, I would like to thank John Penn for his patience in
allowing me to compare so many instruments with different tonal
characteristics and feel in my search for the one guitar that suited me, and
my style of playing best. I love my G6. It is a pleasure to play in
virtually every respect. Not too physically demanding. Crisp high end.
Accurate in the lower registers without sacrificing the ever important warmth
in the middle. Perfect intonation. A slice of heaven at an earthly price.
Thanks again.
Joe Marchione
February 2003
Bensalem, PA
Dear John Penn,
Today my teacher saw and played my new Maestro guitar.
When I opened the case there was an ooooooh! When he played it he said
it was lovely, well balanced and that he would now be ashamed to play
HIS guitars. He said it was an excellent value for the price. Maybe
next lesson, he'll let ME play it???? Only kidding....but it was hard
to get it away from him. He did not think that the very small blemish
in the finish was of concern and seemed very pleased with the wonderful
sound. Thank you John and Linda for helping me pick out this beautiful
guitar.
Denise Brown
January 2003
Mr. Page,
I've been playing the G4 for last week or so. It is a very nice instrument,
sounds wonderful with clear trebles. Beautiful workmanship. It is all that
you said it would be.
Thank you.
George Ebert
September 2002
I received my Giambattista G6 Monday. I'm delighted with sound and ease of
play. My teacher was equally impressed (maybe even a little envious).
You were right it does sound different than the Sakurai, to me even better.
Bright and clear with plenty of sustain and projection.
Thank you for helping me select a great guitar.
Don Hendrickson, Springfield, MO
August 2002
Dear Bob,
Thank you for your wonderful service in helping me decide to purchase the G4 and shipping it to Vancouver. As you may recall, the guitar was a birthday present for my wife and she is enthralled by it. It is vastly superior in construction quality, clarity of tone and volume to other guitars that we have tried at similar prices.
I must admit that buying a guitar unseen and unplayed was somewhat unsettling, but your confidence in this guitar and your attendance to the shipping details made the process quite easy in retrospect. I also thank you for your generosity in cushioning the exchange rate difference between our dollars. I will certainly visit your store if I ever come to Philadelphia, but perhaps you might consider going "international" by opening a store in Vancouver.
Thanks again, it was a pleasure dealing with you.
Greg Blanchard, Vancouver
May 2002
I wanted to follow up and tell you that my guitar arrived today in perfect condition, as well as to thank you for taking the time to help me, a beginning student, pick one of your less expensive guitars.
I had a more accomplished player give me his opinion, and he was impressed by the sound, especially in light of the cost of the guitar. Thanks again, and I look forward to growing attached to my new Prudencio Saez.
Michael Connell
April 2002
Thanks for the pointers on buying a student guitar...
best I have found on the internet! Clear, concise and extremely helpful...
Michael Kingsley, US Army Corps of Engineers
April 2002
The Classical Guitar Store ...since 1967
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