Alhambra
The Alhambra Music Instruments Company is a Spanish manufacturer of classical and flamenco guitars, ukuleles, and mandolins. The company was founded in 1965 by José María Vilaplana and José López López, two guitar makers from Muro de Alcoy, a small town in the province of Alicante, Spain.
The name "Alhambra" was chosen as a tribute to the famous palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Spain, which is known for its exquisite Islamic architecture and ornate decoration. This choice reflects the company's commitment to craftsmanship, beauty, and tradition.
From the beginning, Alhambra has focused on producing high-quality instruments that are affordable for students and amateurs, as well as professionals. The company's motto is "Affordable Quality", and it has become known for its excellent value for money. Alhambra guitars are sold in more than 70 countries around the world, and the company has won numerous awards and accolades for its craftsmanship and innovation.
Alhambra's workshop is located in Muro de Alcoy, where a team of skilled artisans and technicians work with the latest technology and techniques to create guitars that are both traditional and modern. The process begins with the selection of the finest woods, such as cedar, spruce, mahogany, and rosewood, which are then aged and dried for several years. The wood is carefully cut, shaped, and sanded, and the guitar's soundboard is carved and braced to ensure optimal resonance and projection.
The neck and fretboard are also carefully crafted, using techniques that have been refined over centuries. The result is a guitar that is not only beautiful to look at but also produces a rich, warm, and balanced sound that is appreciated by musicians of all levels.
In addition to classical and flamenco guitars, Alhambra also produces a range of ukuleles and mandolins that are equally well-crafted and affordable. These instruments have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more people discover the joy of playing music.
Alhambra is committed to sustainability and uses only wood that is harvested from sustainable sources. The company also employs environmentally friendly practices in its manufacturing process, such as using water-based finishes and recycling waste materials.
One of the unique features of Alhambra guitars is the "E" model, which incorporates a special electronic pickup system that allows the guitar to be amplified for live performances and recordings. This innovation has been particularly popular among flamenco guitarists, who need to be heard over the sound of dancers' footwork.
Alhambra guitars are also known for their comfortable playing action, which is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. This is particularly important for beginners, who may find it difficult to play on guitars with high action. Alhambra guitars are designed to be easy to play, which makes them ideal for students and amateurs.
The company has a strong commitment to education and offers a range of resources for guitar students and teachers, including instructional videos, lesson plans, and a network of authorized dealers and distributors around the world. Alhambra also sponsors guitar competitions and festivals, such as the Alhambra International Guitar Competition, which attracts talented musicians from around the world.
In recent years, Alhambra has expanded its product line to include a range of accessories, such as strings, tuners, and cases, that are designed to complement its guitars and enhance the playing experience. The company also offers a range of custom options, such as different wood combinations and finishes, that allow musicians to create a guitar that is truly unique.
In conclusion, the Alhambra Music Instruments Company is a Spanish manufacturer of classical and flamenco guitars, ukuleles, and mandolins that is renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship, affordability, and innovation. With a team of skilled artisans and technicians, the company produces instruments that are both traditional and modern, using only the finest materials and sustainable practices. Alhambra guitars are known for their rich, warm, and balanced sound, as well as their comfortable playing action, making them ideal for musicians of all levels. In addition to its products, Alhambra also offers a range of educational resources and sponsors guitar competitions and festivals, further demonstrating its dedication to the music community.
