Part one of the book is devoted to separate chapters on each famous maker, including Antonio de Torres, Hermann Hauser, Santos Hernandez, Hernandez y Arguado, Ignacio Fleta, Robert Bouchet, Daniel Friederich and Jose Romanillos. The reader will find historical information about the life of and influences on each maker, detailed sets of working drawings for their guitars, as well as rare photographs.
Part two provides essential information about the tools, working environment and materials needed by the guitar maker.
Part three comprises a step-by-step method of guitar construction, illustrated by numerous photographs and drawings. This book will be essential both for the guitar maker and the historian, providing as it does a unique record of the different methods of guitar design.
Roy Courtnall made his first guitar under the supervision of his great-grandfather when he was twelve years old. After obtaining a BA (Hons) degree in Sculpture from London University he became more involved in making both lutes and guitars. He is now producing handmade instruments to order. Largely self-taught, he also runs several Adult Education classes in guitar and lute making. He is married and lives in Lincolnshire.