John Underhill

Cheltenham, Glos.

United Kingdom

Profile Information:

About me:
I started playing classical guitar many years ago and then I switched to playing (and making) lutes. Having played very little for a long time, I recently became interested in the Baroque guitar - I was inspired in particular by the Sanz CD of Laberintos Ingeniosos.
I am currently in the process of making a Baroque guitar for myself. In order to have an instrument to play in the meantime I bought a 'Thomann' baroque guitar which I have modified in line with advice that I found on this forum.

Comment Wall:

  • Chris Despopoulos

    Welcome to the forum.  I'm definitely a fan of Xavier -- I had the luck to audit a class he gave, and I was also inspired to play the Baroque guitar.  One thing about that Sanz recording...  I believe he plays it with no bordones, which many people say is the way Sanz recommends.  In all accounts, Xavier's playing is brilliant and exciting.

     

    Coming from classical to Baroque myself, I can tell you it's pretty tricky to get used to having a G as the lowest ground in your range. I suggest you shy away from pieces you already know on the classical guitar -- it's easier to get used to the different way of thinking.  Also, take the old tablature trick to heart...  In general, let all the notes ring as long as possible.  It really changes the semantics of what you're playing if you don't, and semantics are the biggest confusion when you don't have bordones IMHO.

    Sep 30, 2011

  • James Westbrook

    I just came across one of your lutes made in 1978. Could you please email me at j@theguitarmuseum.com 

    Mar 27