Bertrand Ligier

About the Guitar Maker

Bertrand Ligier is a French luthier whose work represents a harmonious balance between art, craftsmanship, and acoustic science. After studying Art History at the University of Montpellier and Furniture Making at the École des Beaux-Arts Georges Guynemer in Uzès, southern France, he dedicated himself to the art of building classical guitars.

Academic Background and Craft Training

During his university years, he explored the history of painting, architecture, and archaeology from antiquity to the 20th century, with a special interest in the Renaissance and the French Impressionist era. He then trained extensively in woodworking and furniture craftsmanship in Uzès, completing internships with the Compagnons du Devoir and working on various historical furniture projects. This period refined his attention to structural detail, aesthetics, and fine handcrafting.

Early Steps into Guitar Making

Having played the classical guitar for ten years, Bertrand built his first instrument in his student room. While working in a carpentry and restoration workshop in Montpellier, he continued developing his skills through manuals and studying photos of master guitars. A pivotal moment came when he met Dominique Field, introduced by guitarist Bernard Piris. This encounter deeply influenced his artistic direction, merging the pursuit of tonal beauty and aesthetic refinement into the core of his philosophy.

Influences and Style Development

Ligier studied the history of the classical guitar from the 19th century to the present, allowing him to understand the evolution of styles and sound philosophies across Europe. His work draws inspiration from both historical masters and modern innovators, blending traditional Spanish and French lutherie with a distinctly personal touch. The result is a guitar that reflects both heritage and originality.

Philosophy and Technical Approach

Each of his guitars is built using a traditional approach informed by detailed acoustic research. Ligier produces around eight guitars per year, typically featuring a spruce soundboard with a fan bracing system. The back is reinforced for enhanced projection and complemented by a double-sided construction. His intricate rosette designs—continuously evolving—have become a signature element of his artistic identity, symbolizing the precision and sensitivity that define his craft.