About the luthier

Antonio Raya Pardo, born in 1950 in Huelma in the province of Jaén, is regarded as one of the central representatives of the Granada school of guitar making. He moved to Granada at the age of fourteen, where he later encountered the Ferrer family, an important lineage within the local guitar making tradition. This connection influenced his decision to pursue the craft professionally.

In 1972 he entered the workshop of José López Bellido as an apprentice. Although his time there was brief, it marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to the guitarrero tradition. From 1973 onwards he worked independently, developing his own voice within the Granada aesthetic. Through study of historic instruments and extensive international travel, he refined a philosophy grounded in precision, restraint, and the pursuit of tonal authenticity.

About the guitar

This 2001 traditional model with spruce soundboard and Pardo rosewood back and sides reflects the clarity and structural discipline associated with the Granada school. The sound is bright and immediate, with a distinctly Spanish character. The attack is fast and precise, producing a focused and direct tonal projection.

The trebles are clear and singing, carrying brilliance without hardness. The basses remain defined and supportive, contributing to a transparent overall balance. The voice projects cleanly into the room, maintaining articulation even in rapid passages. Its tonal architecture favours clarity of line and rhythmic precision.

The instrument offers a comfortable playing experience, with an easy response that supports both right hand control and left hand fluency. The overall impression is of a refined Granada concert guitar that combines brightness, structural focus, and immediacy of sound.

Condition

Original condition with normal signs of wear consistent with age and careful use.

Antonio Raya Pardo

Antonio Raya Pardo - 2001 No. 750