About the luthier

Ariel Ameijenda was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, in 1963, the son of one of the country’s most respected guitar makers, Manuel Ameijenda. The craft runs in the family: Manuel Ameijenda himself was trained by Juan Carlos Santurion, a pupil of Ignacio Fleta. Through this lineage, Ariel inherited a direct connection to the Spanish tradition of guitar making.

From an early age, Ariel worked alongside his father in the workshop, acquiring practical mastery of construction techniques and developing a refined understanding of tonal balance and structural discipline. In 1997 he established his own workshop in Montevideo, supplying classical guitars and period string instruments to musicians internationally. Since 2014 he has been based near Piriápolis on the eastern coast of Uruguay, where he continues to build instruments rooted in tradition and defined by clarity of voice.

About the guitar

This 2018 traditional model features a cedar soundboard and Uruguayan blackwood back and sides. The instrument presents a notably airy and woody tonal profile, with a round and dark core that gives the sound depth and substance. The basses are deep and powerful, forming a stable foundation that supports the overall tonal architecture.

The trebles emerge smoothly from this darker spectrum, remaining full and lyrical rather than sharp. The overall sound is warm, yet it carries with authority and projection when required. Despite its depth, the voice does not feel heavy. It retains openness and clarity, allowing detailed articulation within a broad dynamic range.

The neck profile and setup provide a very comfortable playing experience, supporting ease in both left hand positioning and right hand control. The response is immediate and reliable, making the instrument well suited for expressive concert performance while maintaining physical comfort over extended playing sessions.

Condition

Very good condition. There is a repaired crack along the centre of the back behind the label. The repair is contained and stable and required no cleats. The finish has been refreshed and is in excellent overall condition.

Ariel Ameijenda

Ariel Ameijenda - 2018