Masaru Kohno, Masaki Sakurai Biography

Masaru Kohno (1926-1998) is not only the most important luthier to emerge from Japan, but also one of the best worldwide. He was born in Mito City, Japan, and in 1948 he graduated from the Tokyo College of Arts and Crafts with a degree in woodcraft. It was during this time that he became interested in guitar construction, and in 1960 he traveled to Spain to learn the craft.

Kohno apprenticed for six months at the workshop of Arcangel Fernandez, and although neither could speak a word of the other's language, they managed to communicate. Kohno's apprenticeship consisted mostly of sitting in the back of the shop and quietly–-but attentively--observing the master Fernandez at work.

Kohno's quiet learning paid off. Upon his return to Tokyo he established his own workshop and quickly gained recognition among Japanese guitarists. His international debut came in 1967, when he was awarded the Gold Medal at the Elizabeth's Concourse International Guitar Building Competition in Belgium. On the judge's panel were, among others, Ignacio Fleta, Robert Bouchet, Joaquin Rodrigo, and Alirio Diaz.

Since then, many players of world renown have used Kohno guitars; among them are Julian Bream, Oscar Gighlia, and Sharon Isbin, to name a few.

Mr. Kohno passed away in 1998, and the workshop was taken over by his nephew, Masaki Sakurai. Among many other accomplishments, in 1988 Mr. Sakurai won awarded a First Prize at the IVth International Guitar-Making Competition in Paris, France. The guitars built since he took over have maintained the high levels of quality, precision craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail and beauty of tone that have made Kohno guitars world renowned.

Artists who play Kohno/Sakurai: Julian Bream, Oscar Gighlia, Sharon Isbin

This guitar has the classic Kohno sound - clear, woody and dark. Condition is excellent with a small crepaired crack and only some normal, respectable playing wear. The guitar is in concert-ready condition with comfortable set up and easy playability. It would be an ideal instrument for the working guitarist needing a concert level instrument that has the flexibility to be played in a variety of environments for different musical purposes.