Scroll_line
2001 Kerman Metamorphosis-2 Dual Top Nylon String
Kerman
Though a classical guitar through and through, this guitar loves jazz, as well.
"A Master Luthier, known for his fine mandolin work, Kerman has been a legend in music circles across Israel and beyond. The Country's most popular mandolin quartet, 'Kerman,' named for the maker of their instruments, is a musical testament to his work. Though Kerman is retired now and no longer making instruments, he was able to achieve a dream of his before retiring his knives. For many years, he researched and planned the creation of his own interpretation of the classical guitar. He only made 5 of these in a series. This is number 2.

The instrument is owned by well-known Israeli concert classical guitarist Liad Abraham. The materials are old seasoned woods of the finest tonal properties available; a stiff and light spruce over old quarter sawn Brazilian rosewood back and sides. Inside the guitar is another, smaller secondary spruce soundboard with spruce interior sides that form a sound chamber. You can see the chamber as you look through the decorative and functional carved diamonds on the top. You can now peer into the side portal areas of the instrument and appreciate the 'inner guitar.' The second soundboard also has a port, visible through the outer sound hole.

The nature of the construction of this guitar was obviously a difficult and challenging accomplishment for the maker. The question for me is WHY? The answer is in the clarity and warmth of the sound. Phil Boroff, one of the finest American classical guitarists that is unknown the world over, sat in our living room recently. (I'll take heart and ability over PR accomplishments any time!) He came here to evaluate and report to you on the Kerman at my request. In his words,

"[This instrument is] comfortably ranked in the upper levels of concert instruments with a curiously unique clarity and penetration in the bass strings, presumably as result of the original interior design. The only sign of its brief age is a remarkable warmth in the tone."

The nut measures 57.15 mm. This 2 1/4" width allows for a player with thicker fingers to have increased comfort. Longer fingers will have room to articulate difficult passages in a more relaxed fashion. Perhaps this is a plus for you.? The scale length is 652.7 mm. (25.7") Upper bout measures 11". The lower bout is 14 7/16".

My personal thanks to Master Luthier Boaz Elkayam for calling my attention to this important instrument. He called from Israel and in an excited, yet reverent voice, said "Richard, this guitar is a masterpiece. Liad has played the guitar for me and it brought a tear." Respecting Boaz as one of the foremost living classical makers, that is all I needed to hear. --Richard

$14,500

    Current
    Selection
Photo Gallery