Martin Bretscher - 2023 Custom Bluesmate Steel String

Martin Bretscher is a guitar maker known for his exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to sustainable, fair, and unique guitars. His journey into the world of luthiery began with an apprenticeship as a cabinet maker. In 2003, Martin pursued his guitar-making passion and started his secondary education as a plucked instrument maker with Armin Hanika. He quickly distinguished himself as a talented and dedicated student, earning his master’s certificate in 2007. Martin was awarded the Master Craftsman Prize of the Bavarian State Government in the same year, an honor recognizing his exceptional talent and commitment to his work. In 2020, Martin founded Soul Guitars in Bavaria, which reflects his passion for creating sustainable, fair, and unique instruments. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, Martin’s guitars are built with the finest materials and designed to stand the test of time.

Introducing the Martin Bretscher Bluesmate, a remarkable fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation in the realm of acoustic guitars. Crafted with a classical guitar design, this instrument exudes elegance and finesse. Its exquisite spruce soundboard, adorned with lattice bracing, delivers rich and resonant tones that captivate the ears of both players and listeners alike. Complementing this top-notch craftsmanship is the use of Malus woods for the back and sides, derived from the esteemed family of Apple wood, along with a Cherry wood neck, all locally sourced to align with Martin's commitment to sustainability and excellence. With a scale length of 630 mm and a 48mm nut, the Bluesmate ensures exceptional playability, allowing musicians to effortlessly explore its wide sonic palette with precision and ease. Adding to its versatility, the inclusion of the AER Lily One pickup system ensures seamless amplification, making it an ideal companion for both stage and studio performances.

In the world of acoustic guitars, the Martin Bretscher Bluesmate stands as a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. Its classical design, coupled with meticulous craftsmanship, creates an instrument that not only sounds exquisite but also embodies the ethos of sustainable craftsmanship. The use of locally sourced Malus woods and Cherry wood for construction not only enhances the guitar's sonic qualities but also underscores Martin's dedication to environmental responsibility. Beyond its aesthetic and ecological virtues, the Bluesmate offers exceptional playability, thanks to its carefully considered dimensions, including a 630 mm scale and a 48mm nut. Whether in the hands of a seasoned performer or an aspiring musician, this guitar's responsive nature and versatile tonal capabilities ensure an unforgettable playing experience. And with the addition of the AER Lily One pickup system, the Bluesmate seamlessly bridges the gap between acoustic authenticity and amplified performance, making it an indispensable tool for musicians seeking both quality and versatility in their craft.