I build fine classical guitars by hand, one at a time, using the best materials available.

Many years of experience as a professional classical guitarist inform all aspects of my design and build process. After completing my masters degree in guitar performance as a teaching assistant under Prof. Frank Koonce, I was regularly hired to play for organizations like NPR, the NCAA, and Intel. In 2018, I was honored to perform for United States Senator John McCain's funeral service, and the Governor of Arizona invited me to perform on multiple occasions for other U.S. governors and foreign dignitaries. Success in high pressure performance situations like these is determined in no small part by the quality of your instrument.

My guitars are built with a focus on volume, tonal clarity in all registers, and melodic projection. I pay special attention to the geometry of the neck and fretboard, pulling the best aspects from the designs of my favorite guitars for an effortless left hand playing experience. Aesthetically, I build traditional instruments that won’t look out of place in a classical recital hall, with eye-catching details to help you stand out on the stage. 

I built my first guitar with my father and grandfather when I was in 7th grade (a kit electric with a tasteful flame decal pick-guard), and I studied classical guitar construction under Canadian luthier Sergei de Jonge.

Andrew Lesley Smith Luthier in workshop