Description
Masaru Kohno M-30 1977 – Amazing Handmade Guitar by Masaru Kohno – A Masterpiece of Balance and Beauty
Masaru Kohno (1926–1998) is widely regarded as Japan’s most influential luthier, and one of the most respected classical guitar makers of the 20th century. His guitars have been played, concertized, and recorded by some of the world’s greatest musicians, including Julian Bream, Oscar Ghiglia, Sharon Isbin, and Shinichi Fukuda, among others.
Although Kohno began crafting guitars in 1948, his career reached new heights after a six-month apprenticeship in Spain in 1960, where he worked under the renowned Arcangel Fernandez. Upon his return to Japan, he established his own workshop, blending traditional Spanish guitar-making techniques with his own innovative craftsmanship. His international recognition came in 1967 when he was awarded the Gold Medal at the prestigious “Concours International de Quatuor à Cordes et Rencontres Musicales Internationales de Liège” in Belgium. This victory solidified his reputation as one of the world’s leading guitar makers, alongside other masters such as Daniel Friederich, who was also honored at the same competition.
This particular 1977 Kohno Model 30 exemplifies the exceptional quality of his work. It features a carefully selected spruce top, paired with exquisite rosewood back and sides. These premium materials contribute to the guitar’s outstanding tonal depth and balance. The scale length is 660 mm, and the nut width is 53 mm, providing a comfortable and versatile playing experience. The condition of this instrument is excellent—beautifully preserved and well cared for over the years.
The sound of this Kohno is simply breathtaking. It has the unmistakable clarity and warmth characteristic of his best guitars from this era. The tone is woody, rich, and deeply resonant, with a refined darkness that adds a layer of mystery and sophistication. The guitar is exceptionally powerful, projecting beautifully with long-lasting sustain that seems to carry each note effortlessly through the air. It fills the room with a mesmerizing variety of tonal colors, offering an incredibly nuanced and expressive sound. Every detail, from the deep, full-bodied basses to the crystalline, singing trebles, is finely balanced and masterfully articulated. Built in the Spanish tradition, it possesses the distinctive voice that defines Kohno’s finest work—an instrument of rare elegance and sophistication, designed to meet the highest artistic demands.
This guitar is in concert-ready condition, with a comfortable setup and easy playability that make it an absolute pleasure to perform on. It comes with the original and high-quality guitar case for protection and safe transport.
For those seeking a professional-level instrument with unparalleled craftsmanship and sound, this Masaru Kohno Model 30 from 1977 is an exceptional find—an instrument that inspires and elevates every performance.
