Marco Maguolo

Marco Maguolo – Guitar Maker

The Journey of a Master Luthier

In the world of fine guitar making, Marco Maguolo has become a name synonymous with passion, artistry, and acoustic excellence. As one of the most respected contemporary luthiers in Italy, Maguolo is celebrated for his exceptional classical guitars that combine meticulous craftsmanship with an unmistakable Italian aesthetic.

Marco Maguolo, based in Padua, Italy, embarked on his journey into the art of lutherie with a deep love for music and woodworking. Initially trained in the restoration of antique instruments, Maguolo developed a profound respect for historical guitar-making traditions. Over time, he transitioned into building his own instruments, channeling both his technical expertise and artistic sensitivity into each guitar he creates.

Drawing inspiration from legendary Spanish luthiers like Antonio de Torres and José Luis Romanillos, as well as from Italy’s own rich tradition, Maguolo has forged a personal style that blends old-world mastery with a fresh, modern touch.

The Signature Maguolo Sound

A Marco Maguolo guitar is instantly recognizable for its superb tonal characteristics and playability. Guitarists are drawn to his instruments for several defining features:

• Balanced tonal range: Deep, resonant basses; rich, lyrical mids; and bright, singing trebles.
• Exceptional projection and sustain: Maguolo guitars easily fill concert halls while retaining tonal nuance.
• Responsive touch: They reward both delicate fingerstyle playing and vigorous strumming with clarity and color.
• Elegant aesthetics: From refined rosettes and bindings to graceful body shapes, every detail reflects Maguolo’s artistic eye.

Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition

Marco Maguolo is renowned for his dedication to traditional craftsmanship:

• Carefully selected tonewoods: European spruce, western red cedar, Indian rosewood, cypress, and maple, all carefully aged and matched for each instrument.
• Hand-carved fan and lattice bracing systems: Allowing for optimal vibration, volume, and tonal depth.
• Attention to detail: Every guitar is handcrafted, from shaping the neck to perfecting the finish, ensuring both beauty and longevity.

Beyond building new guitars, Maguolo is also highly respected for his work in restoration and conservation, having restored historical guitars by masters such as Torres, Simplicio, and Hauser. This rare experience gives him a unique understanding of the subtleties of sound and construction across different schools of guitar making.

Loved by Musicians and Collectors Worldwide

Marco Maguolo’s guitars have captured the hearts of soloists, chamber musicians, and collectors alike. His instruments are often seen on international concert stages and in recording studios, admired for their expressive range and unmistakable voice.

Collectors prize Maguolo guitars not only for their sound but also for their craftsmanship and artistic value, making them cherished additions to fine instrument collections.

Caring for a Marco Maguolo Guitar

To keep a Maguolo guitar in pristine condition, proper care is essential:

• Maintain optimal humidity (45–55%) to protect the wood from cracks and warping.
• Use a soft cloth to wipe down the guitar after playing.
• Schedule regular checkups with a professional luthier to preserve optimal playability and sound quality.

Where to Find Marco Maguolo Guitars

Due to their handcrafted nature and high demand, Marco Maguolo guitars are available in limited numbers. They can often be found through premier dealers such as Siccas Guitars, as well as by direct commission from the luthier himself.

Conclusion

Marco Maguolo stands as one of today’s leading voices in classical guitar making, bringing together tradition, innovation, and an unmistakable sense of soul. His guitars are not just instruments — they are works of art, offering players a deeply personal and transformative musical experience. For any guitarist or collector seeking the pinnacle of Italian lutherie, a Marco Maguolo guitar is an investment in timeless beauty and sound.