Francisco Manuel Díaz, Luthier, Granada

[golunvolo]

This is one of the stops we made in order to get information for Olga´s new show about "La Leona" a famous guitar made by Torres. Meet the workshop were magic still happens in Granada. The instrument builder is Francisco Manuel Díaz and there is one of his creations being played during the live performance. He was most gracious about his work, the tools, a few secrets...
   Even though I was recording a video of the meeting I still had time to grab a few shots. I hope you find it interesting.

  All images with Z6 and 50mm 1.8s

[golunvolo]

Front of the shop in Granada

[ianwatson]

A fascinating look at a master craftsman. Thank you, Paco.

[Akira]

It is always interesting and intriguing to look into shops of experienced luthiers.

I think I am also seeing a couple of laúd in the process, which is unique to the Spanish luthiers.

Thank you, Paco, for sharing!

[John Geerts]

Fascinating images fitting the story.  Those tools have something special.

[Nasos Kosmas]

Thank you Paco
It’s always interesting to look into luthiers workshops
Been an amateur luthier myself I know the feeling of  creation

[golunvolo]

I´m happy you guys found it interesting. It was for me too. The smell, the bits and pieces of the trade and of history in every corner... The guy himself was a treasure, very open and friendly. There was non of his guitars on display as they are sold as soon as he can make them. He told us it takes about a month to finish one. The one played by Alfredo Mesa during the performance was a beauty with very very good sound. I don't have specific shots of that one but seeing the interest, I will try to get some details if I ever have the chance.

  Akira, yes you can see a couple of unfinished laúd and the means to make more. I didn't know it was unique to spanish luthiers. As a non connaisseur I sometimes mistake them with "bandurrias". Not sure the of relationship between them but you can see them played here and there still today.

[golunvolo]

Thank you Paco
It’s always interesting to look into luthiers workshops
Been an amateur luthier myself I know the feeling of  creation

  That should be an interesting and strong feeling: music coming out of an instrument you have created!

[Akira]

  Akira, yes you can see a couple of unfinished laúd and the means to make more. I didn't know it was unique to spanish luthiers. As a non connaisseur I sometimes mistake them with "bandurrias". Not sure the of relationship between them but you can see them played here and there still today.

To my understanding, laúd is, along with bandurria, one of the Spanish folk instruments.  I know about some other well renowned Spanish luthiers and guitar manufacturers make bandurria, but Japanese dealers almost always deals with their guitars.