This beautiful concert class classical guitar is entirely hand built using solid AAA grade tonewoods throughout, in an artisan workshop headed by Chinese luthier Niu Lihua, who studied his craft under international award winning master luthier Yulong Guo. Indeed the design of this instrument borrows heavily from Mr Guo's GC-03 'Chamber Concert' model which sells for £3000 at the London Guitar Studio.

Just as with Japan in the late 1960s and 70s when luthiers such as Masaru Kohno and Kazuo Yairi were gaining worldwide recognition, Chinese lutherie is on the rise, lead by the likes of Yulong Guo who's instruments sell for as much as £12,000; and I am confident that other luthiers such as Niu Lihua will achieve the same recognition.

The neck is mahogany with an ebony finger board, the nut width is 52mm and the scale length is 650mm. The bridge, as is now common on many high end classical guitars, has double holes for ease of stringing and improved string 'break angle' over the saddle. All in all a stunning looking instrument with volume and sustain in abundance.

Neither the photos in the image gallery, or the video below, can fully do justice to this fabulous instrument. Until it is viewed in person, held and played, only then can it be appreciated for its incredible level of craftsmanship and performance. Which is why the 'collection in person' buying option is actively encouraged so that buyers can closely inspect and trial instruments before fully committing to purchase. If any instrument doesn't fully meet expectations then an instant refund will be given.

Below is a demonstration video by Shaun Murray, a good friend of Rathbone & Brown Classical Guitars.