Bertrand Ligier

Bertrand Ligier – Guitar Maker

Academic Foundations in Art and Craftsmanship

After studying Art History at the University of Montpellier and Furniture Making at the Georges Guynemer School of Fine Arts in Uzès, South of France, Bertrand turned to the craft of building classical guitars. During his university studies, he delved into the essential history of painting, architecture, and archaeology from antiquity to the 20th century, with a particular interest in the Renaissance and the famous French Impressionist period. Following these studies, he underwent comprehensive training in woodworking and furniture making in Uzès, where he learned the carpentry trade, alternating with internships in workshops or under the tutelage of the renowned "Compagnons du devoir" organization. During this time, he had the opportunity to construct various period-style furniture pieces, including complex veneer work, as well as restoring furniture from ancient eras.

First Steps into Guitar Building

Having played classical guitar for a decade at that point, he decided to attempt building his first instrument in his student room. He continued honing his skills by referring to manuals and images of master guitars he found online while working in a carpentry and restoration workshop in Montpellier. A significant turning point in his approach to classical guitar making was when he had the opportunity to meet the renowned French guitar builder D. Field for the first time, thanks to guitarist Bernard Piris. Since then, the pursuit of artistic style, sound quality, and the endeavor to achieve the highest level of craftsmanship have been equally vital to his guitar-making process.

Inspirations and Stylistic Development

Bertrand focused on studying the history of classical guitar from the 19th century to the present, a period coinciding with his favored artistic era. This helped him understand the influences and development of classical guitars from various countries and manufacturers. Fascinated by past and contemporary manufacturers who impressed him both in artistic style and sound, his guitar-building journey was shaped by his studies as he worked diligently to find his unique path and style.

Philosophy and Technical Approach

His guitars are constructed using a traditional approach, including extensive research on acoustic systems. He builds around 8 guitars per year with a spruce top and fan bracing system. The back is reinforced for enhanced projection, paired with a double-sided system. Meticulous attention to detail and rosette design are always subjects of research and development and can be considered a hallmark of his work.