Gary Southwell

About the Guitar Maker

Gary Southwell is internationally recognized as one of Britain’s most accomplished luthiers, celebrated for his exceptional craftsmanship and profound understanding of both historical and modern guitar making. His instruments bridge the gap between the classical, romantic, and contemporary worlds, appealing to concert guitarists, scholars, and collectors who value authenticity, precision, and artistic refinement.

A Master of Historical and Modern Guitar Making

With over 30 years of experience, Gary Southwell has mastered the creation of both modern concert guitars and historically accurate reproductions, particularly of early 19th-century instruments. Drawing inspiration from original works by Louis Panormo, René Lacote, and Antonio de Torres, he has developed his own celebrated design – the Aesthetic Guitar, which beautifully combines tradition and innovation.

His dedication to authenticity and acoustic excellence has led to commissions from some of the world’s most prominent guitarists, including:

• Julian Bream
• Nigel North
• David Starobin
• Scott Tennant

These musicians prize Southwell’s guitars for their expressiveness, dynamic response, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The Aesthetic Guitar – A Modern Classic

The Aesthetic Guitar, Southwell’s signature design, combines the tonal richness of romantic guitars with the power and clarity required for modern performance. Its refined body shape, carefully engineered bracing, and responsive voice make it ideal for guitarists seeking both innovation and authenticity.

Southwell selects premium tonewoods such as European spruce, cedar, Indian rosewood, and English walnut, finishing each guitar with exquisite detail. Hand-carved decorations and French-polished surfaces elevate his instruments to the realm of fine art.

For Performers, Collectors, and Institutions

Gary Southwell’s guitars are cherished by leading performers and housed in museums, universities, and conservatories worldwide. Their historical accuracy and tonal beauty make them essential instruments for both performance and study. Whether for Baroque, Romantic, or modern repertoire, his guitars offer:

• Clear articulation and lyrical tone
• Sensitive dynamic range and excellent balance
• Elegant ergonomics and visual harmony
• Finest craftsmanship and timeless materials

Why Choose a Guitar by Gary Southwell?

Owning a Gary Southwell guitar means owning a piece of living guitar history. Combining deep respect for tradition with forward-thinking design, Southwell builds instruments that:

• Represent the finest of British luthiery
• Meet the needs of today’s professional musicians
• Preserve the soul of historical sound
• Exhibit unmatched tone, projection, and craftsmanship

At Siccas Guitars, we are proud to present Gary Southwell’s instruments — guitars that embody both historical depth and modern brilliance. Whether you are a concert performer, a researcher, or a passionate connoisseur, Southwell’s work stands as a testament to the highest art of lutherie.