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Tag Archive for: Dream Guitars

Singer-songwriter Danny Ellis sits down with his student, Paul Heumiller, to talk music, songwriting and teaching

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Singer-songwriter Danny Ellis has had an interesting life to say the least. After growing up in an orphanage in Ireland in the 1950s, Danny found music and it saved his life. He began his professional career as a trombone player with “The Boyne Valley Stompers,” a Dixieland band touring Ireland. From there, Danny expanded his horizons, his singing and playing and started a diverse musical career that has taken him all over the world as a trombonist, keyboardist and guitarist as well as a professional songwriter.

Flash forward to today and Danny is opening for for many musicians, including the great Bonnie Raitt for her recent show at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. Bonnie is a great fan of Danny and his music and personally invited him to fill the opening slot.

Danny now maintains a studio in Asheville, NC, just down the road a spell from our Dream Guitars headquarters in Weaverville. We have built a solid professional relationship with Danny and he granted us some of his time to record a lengthy video interview with our own Paul Heumiller to talk about singing, songwriting, musicianship and his latest role as a teacher, which he conducts out of his studio in person as well as on Skype. In fact, Paul himself has spent plenty of time learning from Danny, studying the finer points of singing and songwriting. Paul considers Danny a mentor and a friend as well as a teacher. You can get more information about Danny’s teaching career and how to become a student by visiting his website and checking out his lessons page (www.dannyellismusic.com/musiclessons.cfm).

We have two videos on our YouTube Dream Guitars channel, one the full-length interview (22:28) and a short highlight reel of the same (5:31). Check them both out, then take a trip to Danny’s site, where you can read about his history, his discography, find links to his Facebook and YouTube pages as well as learn more about his teaching methods and how to contact him for lessons.

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Bottleneck slide master Steve James teaches you ‘Guitar Rag’

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When Steve James spent time with us at Dream Guitars just before his rocking house concert performance at our Weaverville, NC, offices, not only did he demo several amazing National Resophonic guitars, he also taught us all a lesson in bottleneck slide playing the legendary “Guitar Rag.”

Your moment of musical history for today: Sylvester Weaver’s “Guitar Rag” is recognized as the first recording of slide guitar. That was way back in 1923, though Steve’s classic style is more than simply reminiscent of the period.

Now you can learn a thing or two from James himself right here at our YouTube channel, study the master’s moves and styles. There is an awful lot of information here and you’ll be able to apply what you learn as you progress as a player. Steve takes the time to demonstrate basic hand placement, string contact, touch, pick technique, vibrato, chords and more as he teaches the viewer how to play like a pro.

Steve James is world-renowned as an expert slide guitar master, not only touring and recording his own material and but acting as a sideman for such legends as Bo Diddley, Kinky Friedman, Buddy Guy and John Hammond. For more information and cool stuff, visit Steve’s homepage… after you learn how to play “Guitar Rag” his way — arguably the best way!

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Steve James’ May 4 House Concert at Dreams Guitars was a blast!

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Last month, Dream Guitars hosted the great Steve James for the latest house concert at our Weaverville, NC, headquarters… and the house was rockin’.

Steve played Sylvester Weaver’s “Guitar Rag,” widely recognized as the first slide song ever recorded (1923). Throughout the show, Steve played his own National Resophonic instruments, including a Resorocket Wood Body WB, an NRP Black Rust and an RM1 Mandolin. He also toured our showroom and selected a few guitars from the racks to use during the show: a 1964 Gibson Sunburst SJ-200 and a Mervyn Davis SmoothTalker, a wood body instrument that that has a resonator-like quality.

Steve also wowed us with a version of “Stagger Lee,” re-written from the perspective of Stagger Lee and his John B. Stetson hat. Incredible!

Dream Guitars hosts about six house concerts a year and in the past has hosted many amazing artists, including Al Petteway and Amy White, Woody Mann, Martin Simpson, Clive Carroll, Lawrence Juber, Paul Geremia, Robin Bullock and Mary Flower to name a few.

Our next show is set for July 7 with the amazing duo of Loren and Mark. Other upcoming guests include Paul Asbell (August 3) and the return of Clive Caroll (Feb 28).

Check out our Event Calendar for more information on our house concert series.

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Loren and Mark: Amazing Guitar Duo! July 7th!

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We host a number of events here at Dream Guitars. Just one of our many ways to give back to the community and share music with others who are passionate about it. We welcome you all to come join us at a House Concert, Guitar Clinic, Setup Saturdays and other events throughout the year. Come visit Dream Guitars and the wonderful Asheville area!

INFO

Loren and Mark in Concert!

Sunday, July 7 @ 7 pm

Pre-Show Pot Luck @ 6 pm

Tickets $20, Reservations required

About Loren and Mark

Loren Barrigar and Mark Mazengarb, both virtuoso players in their own right, ran into each other several times over the years, first meeting in 2005 at Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Ranch guitar camp when working with Tommy Emmanuel. Loren was a seasoned player making his first deep foray into the world of acoustic guitars, while Mark was in the process of finishing his degree in classical guitar at the University of North Carolina. They met again in 2009 at the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society (CAAS) convention in Nashville, Tenn., and then they were late additions to the CAAS 2010 Saturday night finale performance lineup based on what the gathering of international guitarists had heard from them during the week. You can see part of that performance here.

Together, Loren and Mark run the gamut of acoustic guitar performances of both original and arranged music. With a background of bluegrass, jazz and Western styles, their thumb-picking technique harkens back to guitar greats such as Atkins, Merle Travis and Jerry Reed. When performing original compositions, Loren brings amazing vocals along with Mark’s stunning harmonies.

They have already recorded two albums together — the first of which won the 2011 SAMMY (Syracuse Area Music Awards) Best Album at the Northeast Music Industry Conference — and have been touring as a duo since 2011. For more on Loren Barrigar and Mark Mazengarb, visit their website http://www.lorenandmark.com.

Reservations required for all events, please email [email protected] or call us at (828) 658-9795.

How it works….

  • Come join us at 3 pm and bring a dish to share and a bottle of your preferred beverage. It’s always a wonderful array of treats!
  • Show starts at 4pm and performers play two sets with an intermission to mingle and meet the artist!
  • Guitar demos available in the shop before and after the show.

Future Concerts/Clinics

Paul Asbell, Mr. Versatility on Guitar, August 3

Clive Caroll, From England! February 28 (7 pm)

 

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Learn to Play Our Theme Song,’The Crossing,’ from Al Petteway

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Here at Dream Guitars, we discovered early on that one element of selling world-class guitars online was missing for our online customers: the sound. We then became perhaps the first online dealer of guitars to offer sound samples by recording every guitar we have in stock, played by any number of our favorite friends. In fact, we made every effort to use snippets of the same song for each guitar to give customers a great point of tonal reference.

If you are a fan and frequent visitor, you are no doubt familiar with, “The Crossing,” written and performed by Al Petteway and included on the “Dream Guitars, Volume 1” compact disc. In effect, it has become our unofficial theme song. In fact, we’ve noticed that many clients come into the showroom outside of Asheville, NC, and play snippets of the very same song they had heard on this site. Kind of cool on the one hand, but very telling on the other.

As a result, we have put together two videos: one with Al performing the piece, the other with a full-blown lesson from Mr. Petteway, complete with detailed instructions on how to play “The Crossing” from the composer himself. The videos are available on our Dream Guitars YouTube channel.

The “Dream Guitars, Vol. 1” CD and complete book of tablature is available in our online store. All of this and more is available in the online shopping cart.

You should also check out the world of Al Petteway at his home website at www.alandamy.com.

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Laskin

Paul’s Pick: 1944 Martin D-18 (previously owned by David Grisman)

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This amazing 1944 Martin D-18 comes to us from legendary musician David Grisman. David told us it had a sweet voice and great power, and he was right. We all love this guitar here at the shop. It is super lightweight and has a very woody voice with powerful trebles that are full and rich. The bass makes the entire lightweight body tremble and quake. It is setup beautifully, as you would expect since it was owned by David Grisman. This 1944 has all the specs of a 1943 Martin D-18, scalloped bracing included. Here’s you chance to have one of the last great Martins, and one with great provenance to boot.

1944 Martin D-18

“This is a really lovely D-18. It weighs nothing and you feel it vibrate ferociously as you play. It has more body and depth then some, the trebles are fat and really sing out, making it equally adept at lead or rhythm work. It is largely original and in perfect playing condition. Lightweight, powerful, owned by David Grisman, what more could you want? “ – Paul Heumiller

” There is nothing like a vintage D-18 for playing Bluegrass or any other flatpicking style. This is one of the nicest I’ve seen and it has power to spare with lots of tone and volume. I think David put some great mojo into this one as well. Just imagine who may have played this guitar at one time or another. I’d buy it in a second if I could.
“ – Al Petteway

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Paul’s Pick: Petros Tunnel 13

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“It’s hard to say just how good this guitar is. Forget, for the moment, it’s beauty. The tone is simply magical. Trebles so full and rich you wonder how Bruce Petros does it. The bass from this amazing set of Brazilian Rosewood is warm and round, at once huge and controlled. Together it makes for a complete guitar, one that is balanced and exquisite on every note. Now for the beauty…. The pictures tell the story… look closely for all the details on this Tunnel 13. The rosette, bridge, etched buttons all hold wonder for the eyes. What a guitar…” – Paul Heumiller



The Petros Tunnel 13 is a thing of beauty and tone. This one is extra special as we custom ordered it with some of the finest Brazilian Rosewood you’ll ever see. Paired with the exceptional sounding Tunnel 13 Redwood top you get one of the fullest, juiciest sounding guitars you’ll ever lay ears on.

The Petros Tunnel 13 also boast unique Pearwood bindings on the headstock, neck and body, etched pearwood buttons, abalone top border and custom Tunnel 13 rosette and bridge inlays as well. The neck is carved from Butternut. Elegantly beautiful from head to toe and very special even in a world full of wonderful guitars. The Tunnel 13 is a rare gem sonically and aesthetically.

Here is the full story from the Petros Website: Southern Pacific Railroad’s Siskiyou Summit Tunnel #13 was built in the 1880’s using virgin Redwood timbers harvested in Southwestern Oregon. These timbers witnessed the October 11, 1923 hold up of the SP Train 13 Gold Special, pulling 13 cars, by the DeAutremont brothers. Four men were killed in the robbery attempt. When these magnificent Redwood timbers were salvaged from this historic tunnel after a fire in 2004, Petros Guitars managed to acquire some of the nicer sections. When these diamonds in the rough were opened up, it was discovered to be exceptional, master-grade tone wood, air dried in this tunnel for more than 120 years. Paired with light weight, figured Claro Walnut from Oregon and a light weight Butternut neck from Wisconsin, this guitar is light as a feather (3 pounds, 14 ounces) with the resonance of a 120 year old guitar. After a century of silence, Petros Tunnel 13 Redwood guitars are giving voice to the remarkable Redwood of Tunnel 13.


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New Arrival: Martin 000-28H (1934)

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We just received this extraordinary Martin 000-28H – a true vintage Dream Guitar. Skillfully maintained by luthiers Bill Tippin and the  legendary T.J. Thompson, this classic beauty is in great shape and plays perfectly. Make no mistake about it, this is one of those “once in a lifetime” guitars, with unsurpassed vintage Martin tone. This guitar is a gem! Adirondack/Brazilian. Comes with a Calton Deluxe Flight case.

Martin 000-28H (1934)

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Charlie Hoffman (Hoffman Guitars) on Minnesota Public Television

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Now online: Minnesota Public Television has posted their “Minnesota Original” segment – featuring Charlie Hoffman of Hoffman Guitars. It features an interview with the renowned luthier, as well as some great behind the scenes action of Charlie bending Indian Rosewood sides. Other highlights include a performance by fingerstylist Tim Sparks.


To view Hoffman Guitars currently in stock, please click the links below.

Small Jumbo

Piccolo

Jumbo and #532 (scroll down)

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Traphagen D’Aquisto Nylon String

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In 1982, world-renowned luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto built a rare and exceptional nylon string guitar. Thought to be only 1 of 3 in existence, and the only fully functional example, this extraordinary instrument was exquisite in tone, playability, and design. All who played it at Dream Guitars were in agreement that it was one of the finest crossover guitars in existence. Sadly, as with most treasures, the D’Aquisto nylon string was well beyond the means of the average player.

So when our friend and luthier James Condino blueprinted the D’Aquisto nylon for the Guild of American Luthiers , we struck upon the idea of commissioning a guitar built on the plans by another celebrated luthier – Dake Traphagen. The idea was to build a no-compromise representation of the D’Aquisto original, but at an affordable price. What resulted is even beyond our highest expectations! For a detailed description please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658-9795.

  • Top – German Spruce
  • Back & Sides – European flamed maple
  • Neck – Honduran Mahogany ( the old real stuff)
  • Fret Board – Ebony
  • Bridge – Brazilian Rosewood
  • Tuners – Schaller
  • Finish – Spirit varnish

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Traphagen D’Aquisto Nylon String

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In 1982, world-renowned luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto built a rare and exceptional nylon string guitar. Thought to be only 1 of 3 in existence, and the only fully functional example, this extraordinary instrument was exquisite in tone, playability, and design. All who played it at Dream Guitars were in agreement that it was one of the finest crossover guitars in existence. Sadly, as with most treasures, the D’Aquisto nylon string was well beyond the means of the average player.

So when our friend and luthier James Condino blueprinted the D’Aquisto nylon for the Guild of American Luthiers , we struck upon the idea of commissioning a guitar built on the plans by another celebrated luthier – Dake Traphagen. The idea was to build a no-compromise representation of the D’Aquisto original, but at an affordable price. What resulted is even beyond our highest expectations! For a detailed description please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658-9795.

  • Top – German Spruce
  • Back & Sides – European flamed maple
  • Neck – Honduran Mahogany ( the old real stuff)
  • Fret Board – Ebony
  • Bridge – Brazilian Rosewood
  • Tuners – Schaller
  • Finish – Spirit varnish

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Paul’s Pick: 1996 Bozo 40th Anniversary Beograd

“Bozo Padunavac is a legend in the guitar world. One of the very early independent Luthiers and a true master of the art form. During his many years building he made only a few true masterpieces like this 40th Anniversary Archtop and this is truly something to behold and to play. Worthy of a Museum, but better yet we hoped it will be loved and played daily by one of our wonderful clients. This one deserves a great home.” – Paul Heumiller

Bozo Beograd

A very special instrument from master luthier Bozo Padunavac. This is a 40th Anniversary Beograd Archtop model featuring Bozo’s signature ornate Abalone inlays and elaborate custom purfling. The maple back and sides and European Spruce top make for a rich and powerful voice. The incredible hand inlay work makes this a true work of art as well. Every surface is adorned with Paua Abalone, Herringbone and too many fine details to list so we’ll let the photos tell it’s story below. Be sure to admire the brass Tailpiece, gorgeous Headplate and amazing fingerboard inlay.

It’s hard to fathom, but this incredible archtop plays and sounds as good as it looks! The action is smooth and even, like an electric, and the tone is both complex and round. This guitar really sings with a flat pick.

Please click here for additional specs and photos:

“This is a very special instrument with all the bells and whistles. A perfect addition to any collection of archtops. It plays like and electric and is smooth and silky.” – Al Petteway

 

 

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New Arrival: Bill Tippin Cuban Mahogany Staccato!!!

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Just in 03/13/12: We just received this wonderful new Tippin Staccato! More photos to follow soon.

When Bill Tippin sent the following photos of his incoming Staccato model (now arrived) – I was blown away by its elegance and by the natural beauty of the wood. Bill’s idea was to make this guitar with refined simplicity, maximizing superb tone, in an instrument that had understated aesthetic charms.

Featuring extremely fine Cuban Mahogany back and sides, this guitar promises to be exactly what Mr. Tippin intended. If you’d like to learn more about this cool new Tippin Staccato please call. It is arriving next week, and will not last long.

Please note: in some of the following photos, Bill applied Naptha to portions of the wood (which does no harm )  to give an approximation of how the color will appear when finish is applied.

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New Arrival: Traphagen Dreadnought!

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Just in 03/13/12: We just received  this stunning new Traphagen dreadnought!

Over the years, luthier Dake Traphagen has built some of the finest classical, nylon and steel string guitars ever to grace the Dream Guitars Showroom and website. So it was with great anticipation that we awaited his newest creation, a dreadnought designed specifically with the flat-picker in mind. Simply put, this is an amazing new guitar. The tone is full and articulate, with incredible volume and projection. It is a joy to play.

Mr. Traphagen describes it this way – “The attack is strong and powerful yet smooth and even. With a little playing time this guitar will become even more powerful and colorful in tone. The entire building process went without a hitch, as if the guitar wanted to be made. Some guitars are more demanding while they’re being formed, trying to play little tricks on the luthier – but not this one.”

Materials list:

  • Master Grade vertical grain Brazilian Rosewood back and sides
  • Master grade Adirondack spruce top.
  • 25.5″ scale
  • 1 11/16″ neck width at the nut
  • Mahogany neck
  • Ebony fret board
  • Gotoh 510 mini tuners black
  • Hand applied varnish finish
  • Honduran Rosewood bridge

Please call for more details and learn how you can try this fine guitar for yourself.

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Incoming: Matt Artinger Custom Guitars – new photos

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Dream Guitars is now a dealer for the incredible instruments of luthier Matt Artinger. Combining sophisticated design, elegant styling and outrageously great tone, Artinger Guitars are amongst the finest electric and acoustic guitars available.

We’ve spec’d out four very special instruments for delivery this year — and the first one is set to arrive soon. If you’d like more information on the upcoming guitars, or if you’d like to learn how a custom instrument can be built for you, please give us a call anytime. Dream Guitars is delighted to be associated with Matt Artinger and his extremely fine musical instruments.

Here are some of Matt’s shop photos of the first arrival – due late February/early March.

 

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1956 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop – Paul’s Pick

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1956 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop

This is a beautiful, all original vintage 1956 Les Paul Goldtop with a carved maple top and mahogany back and neck. It features a bound rosewood fingerboard with trapezoid inlay, a pearl logo and Kluson tuners with tulip shaped tuner buttons. It has many advanced features such as the stop tailpiece and Tune-O-Matic bridge made famous on late 50’s Les Pauls. This guitar features 2 “Soapbar” P-90 pickups with cream colored covers. Since it is pre 1960 it has a nice full neck. This guitar has that worn in feel that cannot be reproduced. This is a lightweight Gold Top that screams. The neck is simply wonderful, and the entire guitar sings with a classic tone from a bygone era.

“Ok, now we are having fun! This is the real deal, a completely original, solid, lightweight, incredible soulful 1956 Les Paul Gold Top – The one to own. This one has to be played to be believed. The feel is that special and the tone from the original P-90s is powerful. We all hope this one sticks around a while because it’s just too much fun to play! This is the market to buy instruments like this. You’ll be happy you did 10 years from now, both because of all the fun you’ll have had, plus it is sure to increase in value.” – Paul Heumiller

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INCOMING GUITARS: Arriving Soon

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One prime difference between Dream Guitars and other guitar sellers is that we regularly work one-on-one with the best luthiers on the planet – commissioning extraordinary, exclusive guitars with the very finest appointments. Our Dream Series builds are legendary, featuring superlative tone woods and design, and crafted for superb playability and utmost player satisfaction.

Quite often, these highly desirable treasures never even make it to our website, as they are quickly acquired by our walk-in clientele before they can be photographed and recorded. With that in mind, we are starting our new Incoming Guitars blog to keep you abreast of incoming instruments that are truly amongst the finest ever made. Please bookmark this page, or check back regularly for updates.

To see additional new arrivals, please see our Sneak Peek blog by clicking here.

MICHIHIRO MATSUDA GUITARS

Matsuda Guitars Model M1 Cutaway

Arriving soon: Model M1 by Michihiro Matsuda. This refined beauty is built with a stunning set of Brazilian Rosewood, hand selected by Dream Guitar’s own Paul Heumiller. The top is an exceptionally fine piece of Italian Spruce. Other specs include  a 1 3/4″ nut 2 1/4″ string spacing. Please call for more details.

Matsuda M1 Cutaway - example, not actual incoming guitar

 

MICHAEL KELLER GUITARS

Keller Dream Series Rose Model SJ

One of our favorite builders – and one of the nicest guys in the guitar biz – is longtime luthier Michael Keller. We have had many spectacular Keller instruments at Dream Guitars over the years, and they are always impressive. We are so knocked out with Michael’s work, that we commissioned him to build the latest addition to our exclusive Dream Series. Starting with a flawless set of Brazilian Rosewood and an Adirondack top, this guitar is sure to be as wonderfully voiced as it is gorgeous! Please call for further information, and to reserve the Keller Dream Series Rose Model SJ for yourself.

Keller Dream Series - Brazilian Rosewood set

Keller Dream Series - Brazilian Rosewood back

Keller Dream Series - Brazilian sides

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TIPPIN GUITARS: Pink Ivory Crescendo

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When chosing traditional tone woods, Pink Ivory is seldom the first species that comes to mind — primarily because it is next to impossible  to find large enough pieces to build guitars with. But Pink Ivory is indeed a supremely fine wood — both visually and tonally. With that in mind, it is our extreme pleasure to show you this exceptional new Pink Ivory Crescendo, from the shop of Tippin Guitars.

Legendary luthier Bill Tippin, of Marblehead MA, makes extraordinary musical instruments that effortlessly blend sophisticated detail, advanced design, and remarkable tone. This guitar features a stunning black willow leaf inlay, which has held special significance throughout Chinese history, and was the inspiration for the Willow Leaf Saber.

Willo Leaf inlay

Tippin Crescendo - Pink Ivory

Tippin Crescendo - Pink Ivory

Luthier Bill Tippin

 

 

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PAUL’S PICK: BOAZ BAROQUE STYLE CLASSICAL GUITAR (new video)

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“This is the kind of guitar that makes your heart stop. It is so beautiful and so wonderfully crafted that it is mesmerizing. I simply cannot walk by it without holding it and playing it. Boaz spent countless hours tirelessly creating this museum quality piece, he even cut the Abalone from the shells. The details are too many to mention so be sure to carefully study the photos. The tone is majestic and warm, delightful in every way. This will be a prize in any serious collection.” – Paul Heumiller

Dream Guitars is thrilled to offer this stunning museum quality Baroque style guitar by Israeli luthier extraordinaire, Elkayam Boaz. The amount of detailed workmanship in this instrument is mind-boggling — from the multi-piece back to the eleborate rosette, soundboard inlays, wooden bridge extensions, friction pegs with ivory seats, ivory strings stops, and back of neck inlays. This is a true work of art.

This very guitar was the subject of a wonderful article in Acoustic Guitar Magazine by luthier Rick Turner in November 1997. The Boaz Baroque Guitar’s voice is detailed and articulate, intimate and sweet, and of course, perfect for period music.

 

    Measurements 

  • Body Size: Medium
  • Scale: 650 mm (25.6 in.)
  • Nut Width: 53.2 mm (2.1 in)
  • String Spacing: 55 mm (2.15 in)
  • Body Length: 17 3/4 in.
  • Upper Bout: 9 5/8 in.
  • Lower Bout: 12 3/8 in.
  • Body Depth @Neck Heel: 3 in.
  • Body Depth @Tail Block: 3 1/8 in.
  • Frets to body: 12
    Woods & Trim 

  • Back/Sides: Brazilian Rosewood, Maple
  • Top Wood: German Spruce
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Neck Wood: Mahogany
  • Bridge: Ebony
  • Rosette: Abalone & Wood
  • Binding: Rosewood
  • Fingerboard Bindings: None
  • Headplate: Ebony
  • Headstock Bindings: None
  • Headstock Inlay: Custom
  • Top Trim: Abalone
  • Back Strip: Custom
  • Fret Markers: Custom
  • Tuners: Friction Pegs
  • Tuner Finish: Ebony

 

 

*Paul’s Pick is a new feature on the Dream Guitars website that highlights exceptional vintage and handbuilt guitars that deserve more attention — guitars with exceptional tone, playability, appearance and provenance. For more information on the featured guitar, or any instrument we offer, please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658 – 9795.

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Paul’s Pick:Dave of England “Queen of Hearts” (SOLD)

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“This guitar represents one of the interesting stories in the guitar world. How instruments come to be is as exciting as the music they make. The story of Dave of England is a great one in the guitar world. You can definitely sense the commitment to Tony Zemaitis’ work in this Queen of Hearts guitar designed by artist and author Paul Schmidt and built by Kevin Parsons and Dave Brewis. Very lightweight and energetic, this one is a joy to play and to behold.” – Paul Heumiller

Dave of England "Queen of Hearts"

The guitars of the late great Tony Zemaitis are the stuff of legend! And with good reason too — they were played by some of the biggest names in the history of Rock and Roll. George Harrison, Keith Richards, Ron Wood, Eric Clapton amongst them — Rock royalty does not get bigger than that! Sadly, Tony Z passed on in 2002, but before he did, a gentleman named David Brewis contacted him with hopes of commissioning a guitar. Tony explained that he was now retired, and he would no longer be building, but he graciously offered Brewis one of his official jigs in which to build a guitar. Within weeks Brewis was given 10 jigs and patterns, and permission to build guitars with them utilizing the talents of luthier Kevin Parsons. In so doing, Brewis was dubbed “Dave of England” and “Keeper of the Jigs and Keeper of the Patterns”!

Dream Guitars is fortunate to have one of these fine and rare guitars to offer. This is a Queen of Hearts guitar designed by artist and author Paul Schmidt and built by Dave of England guitars. With it’s distinct styling and imaginative lines, this guitar could easily have been built by the hands of the master himself. But it is more than an interesting piece, it is also an extremely toneful one. The neck is on the slender side, and the guitar itself is lightweight. It has a fine fast attack, superb for Townshend-esque strumming — but played softly, it has a sweet remarkable tone that is very responsive to dynamics. In all, it is a wonderful guitar with a distinct look and a truly special voice.

    Measurements 

  • Body Size: Jumbo
  • Scale: 25 in. (635 mm)
  • Nut Width: 1 5/8 in. (41.4 mm)
  • String Spacing: 2 1/8 in. (54.1 mm)
  • Body Length: 20 3/8 in.
  • Upper Bout: 12 1/4 in.
  • Lower Bout: 16 3/4 in.
  • Serial #: One of Five
  • Body Depth @Neck Heel: 3 3/4 in.
  • Body Depth @Tail Block: 4 3/8 in.
  • Frets to body: 14

    Woods & Trim 

  • Back/Sides: European Sycamore Maple
  • Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Neck Wood: Mahogany
  • Bridge: Ebony Smiley Face
  • Rosette: Abalone Heart Shaped Rosette
  • Binding: Maple
  • Fingerboard Bindings: Ebony with Paua Perflings
  • Headplate: Rosewood
  • Headstock Bindings: None
  • Headstock Inlay: Metal ‘Queen of Hearts’ Plaque by Danny O’Brien, Metal ‘Art of Music’ Truss Cover
  • Top Trim: Wood Lines
  • Back Strip: None
  • Fret Markers: Paua Hearts at 12th Fret
  • Tuners: Grover Imperials
  • Tuner Finish: Chrome

For more information on this superb guitar, or any of the fine guitars listed on this site, please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658-9795.

 

 

 

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Brilliant CD Alert!! David Stevenson’s “May, Arise”!

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Frequent visitors to the Dream Guitars website have no doubt noticed our recent fine classical guitar demos, all compliments of one extremely talented guitarist, David Stevenson. David is both a skilled performer and an immensely gifted composer. On May, Arise Stevenson and percussionist River Guerguerian collaborate on a engaging set of music that showcases  instrumental mastery, as well as great emotional depth.

May, Arise by David Stevenson with River Guerguerian

The songs have a transcendent uplifting quality that sound contemporary and immediate, while simultaneously conjuring images or the ancient and arcane; no mean feat indeed! Guerguerian’s skillful performance, featuring a wealth of global percussion, supports and enhances the material wonderfully.

For guitarists, David Stevenson’s playing is an inspiration. Technically brilliant, the sound of his custom Abe Wechter guitar propels May, Arise with skillful execution from the very first track to the CD’s extremely satisfying conclusion. We highly recommend this very fine CD! For more information about David, and to purchase May, Arise please click here.

Check out the following clips:

1) Eastern Anthem

2) 11/8

3) Bulldozing for Zen

4) Resolution

Dream Guitars is extremely pleased to have a player of David’s high caliber to demonstrate our nylon string instruments. Look for more information about David, including video lessons and performance video in weeks to come!

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DOUG YOUNG GUITAR LESSONS – AMAZING GRACE – now with tablature

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Recently Doug Young dropped by Dream Guitars and taught this great 3 part guitar lesson on arranging Amazing Grace for fingerstyle guitar. To follow along with the tablature, please click here.

From Doug’s website:

Doug Young is a fingerstyle instrumental guitarist based in the San Francisco South Bay area. An active perfomer in the local acoustic guitar scene, Doug hosts a monthly guitar showcase that has featured performers like Dorian Michael, Thomas Leeb, Steve Baughman, Teja Gerken, and many more. So far, Doug has released one CD, Laurel Mill, featuring his solo guitar playing, compositions and arrangements. Mel Bay has published his best-selling instructional book: “Understanding DADGAD: For Fingerstyle Guitar.” He is a Contributing Editor for Acoustic Guitar Magazine, and has also been published in Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine. In his role at Acoustic Guitar, Doug has written numerous instructional articles, gear reviews, and interviewed many of today’s top guitarists including Tommy Emmanuel, Sergio Assad, Andy McKee, Laurence Juber and Pierre Bensusan.

To learn more about Doug, his gig schedule, and his array of reviews and quality products, click here.

 

 

 

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Paul’s Pick: 1931 Martin Guitars OM-28 (SOLD)

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Last week’s our new Paul’s Pick* segment showcased a stellar vintage Martin 000-45 from 1930. We figured that since we’re already discussing  incredible old Martins, we’d be remiss if we failed to mentioned another exceptional classic that is currently in our shop; this gorgeous 1931 OM-28.

This is one of the all time great vintage Martins, a vintage, prewar 1931 Martin OM-28. 1 of 166 made that year and just 487 pre-war OM-28s ever made. Born over 80 years ago, this guitar has an incredible story. It was purchased by crew members of the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga for their superior just before the bombing at Pearl Harbor. The Saratoga was moved just days before the bombing and this beautiful Martin survived to delight the seamen throughout their tour of duty.

This wonderful vintage OM-28 has stunning Brazilian back and sides, an Adirondack top, and the purest sweet old Martin sound you’re going to find. Abolutely one of the best sounding guitars to ever grace our walls. This fine early example comes in a period correct case, and has superbly well dressed and crowned bar frets, that feel more like modern frets than the old-timers.

This vintage Martin OM-28 guitar is largely original, but like all these old timers has had some work done as described in the condition statement here. What you can’t see is the amazing voice, so put on your headphones and be sure to listen to this treasure. Playing this fine pre-war vintage 1931 Martin OM-28 is such a pleasure, it is far more than a collectible. This is a guitar that will work its way into your heart and never leave!

To hear audio of this guitar please click here!

“I’ve had the pleasure to play many fine prewar Martins, but this is the best OM-28 I’ve played to date for two reasons. First, the tone is etheral, so sweet, strong and resonant. It weighs nothing and just vibrates in your arms. Second is it’s playability. A superb setup was done with painstaking fret dressing. I guarantee you have never played bar frets that feel this good. Each fret was perfectly crowned and the ends rounded, so your finger slide over them as if they were modern frets. This is the vintage prewar Martin OM-28 we all dream of, now it can be reality. This is the time to buy vintage gems as they are devalued, but we all know they won’t stay that way…” – Paul Heumiller

Here’s a video of the the great Mary Flower playing this fine old Martin!

 

*Paul’s Pick is a new feature on the Dream Guitars website that highlights exceptional vintage and handbuilt guitars that deserve more attention — guitars with exceptional tone, playability, appearance and provenance. For more information on the featured guitar, or any instrument we offer, please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658 – 9795.

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PAUL’S PICK: Guitar of the Week – 1930 Martin 000-45 (sold)

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1930 Martin 000-45

 

 

 

This is a treasure. A well preserved 1930 Martin 000-45, quite simply one of the most collectible Martin Guitars ever made. Martin only made 21 of these in 1930 and only 341 in total. This pre war sweetheart embodies that Holy Grail tone all guitarist long for and all builders hold in esteem. Every note is alive and complete. This one plays like a new guitar and appears to be all original but for a pro refinish and proper replacement bridge. We are honored to offer this rare and special 1930 Martin OOO-45.

Please click here to hear this amazing guitar!

“We all feel very lucky to get to know this guitar if even for a short while. Just a moments play and you realize exactly why Martin Guitars from this era are held in such high regard. Big round bass, clear, present mids and bold and singing trebles make this as complete a guitar as a player could ever hope for. Collector’s will also be delighted by this vintage pre-war Martin 000-45, it is after all a Holy Grail of guitars.” – Paul Heumiller

    Measurements 

  • Body Size: Small
  • Scale: 25 2/5 in. (645.2 mm)
  • Nut Width: 1 7/8 in. (47.6 mm)
  • String Spacing: 2 3/8 in. (60.3 mm)
  • Body Length: 20 1/2 in.
  • Upper Bout: 11 in.
  • Lower Bout: 15 in.
  • Serial #: 41539
  • Body Depth @Neck Heel: 3 1/4 in.
  • Body Depth @Tail Block: 4 1/4 in.
  • Frets to body: 12
    Extras 

  • Cutaway: None
  • Pickguard: None
  • Case: OHSC
  • Pickup: None
  • Condition: Excellent, professional refinish, 2 perfectly repaired top cracks, no cleats. Newer belly Bridge. Everything inside is original, includes original case.

 

    Woods & Trim 

  • Back/Sides: Brazilian Rosewood
  • Top Wood: Adirondack Red Spruce
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Neck Wood: Mahogany, 1 Piece
  • Bridge: Ebony Belly
  • Rosette: 45 Style Abalone
  • Binding: Ivoroid
  • Fingerboard Bindings: Ivoroid
  • Headplate: Brazilian Rosewood
  • Headstock Bindings: Ivoroid
  • Headstock Inlay: Torch
  • Top Trim: Abalone
  • Back Strip: Marquetry
  • Fret Markers: 45 snowflake
  • Tuners: original
  • Tuner Finish: nickel with ivory buttons

 

This guitar is now sold.

Paul’s Pick is a new feature on the Dream Guitars website that highlights exceptional vintage and handbuilt guitars that deserve more attention — guitars with exceptional tone, playability, appearance and provenance. For more information on the featured guitar, or any instrument we offer, please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658 – 9795.

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CONNECT WITH US

Showroom (by appointment only):

108 Monticello Road, Suite 400,
Weaverville NC, 28787

Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm EST

Contact Us
Make an Appointment

ABOUT

COMMUNITY

POLICIES

EDUCATION