Paco Santiago Marin 1998
MADE IN GRANADA

Many people talk about the “Granada guitar.” But what is the Granada guitar? A lot can be said, but perhaps the most important point is that defining the “Granada guitar” is nearly impossible. There are so many guitar makers in Granada, each with a strong personality and a distinct style, that I don’t believe one can speak of a single “Granada guitar.”

Antonio Marín, José Vigil, and Francisco Jiménez—three Granada-based guitar makers from different generations—are remarkably different from one another. The guitars they build are very distinct, yet all three are unquestionably Granada guitar makers.

However, if I had to give an example of a Granada guitar, I would choose the one we have here—not just from any period, but from this specific one as well.

This 1998 Paco Santiago Marín, made by the maestro, is a clear example of a Granada guitar. Built in a highly traditional manner, it showcases exceptional craftsmanship, with precise angles and curves that have remained unchanged over the years—a testament to the quality of its construction. It is a lightweight guitar, very comfortable to play, made from excellent woods. Most importantly, it delivers a powerful sound with great projection, characteristic of Paco Santiago Marín. Its tone is filled with traditional Spanish beauty, rich in nuances and colors, incredibly well-balanced, with trebles that project superbly.

Another standout feature of this guitar is its quick response.

This is a concert guitar—perhaps the kind of guitar Paco has always aimed to create. Instruments designed for large halls, capable of projecting beautifully within them. This may be why many professional guitarists have chosen his guitars for their performances.

Why do I emphasize this period? Because it is my favorite era of Paco’s work. It is the period of the 30th Anniversary guitar—an instrument that, as I mentioned, maintains a stunning balance of sound, dynamics, and tonal colors. In contrast, the later 40th and 50th Anniversary models leaned more heavily toward sheer sound projection. The 50th Anniversary guitar is spectacular in terms of power—perhaps one of the most powerful guitars ever built in a traditional manner. However, in this 30th Anniversary model, the beauty of the sound takes precedence.

In fact, this guitar is a 30th Anniversary model in every way. There is no difference in construction. When its only previous owner—a professional guitarist—brought it to Paco after some years, the maestro himself confirmed that it was a 30th Anniversary guitar. Paco started labeling his guitars as 30th Anniversary just two or three guitars after this one.

Another striking aspect of this guitar is how well-preserved it is. It is difficult to find scratches or any signs of wear—it looks practically new. It has never undergone any repairs, has no defects, no cracks—nothing.

It is truly a privilege for us to have a guitar like this available at MADERA for our clients.

Paco Santiago Marín is one of the most prominent figures in the history of guitar making in Granada and worldwide. Born in Granada, into a family with a deeply rooted artisanal tradition, he belongs to the most important dynasty in the history of guitar construction in the city and one of the most important in the world as it is the Marín Family with so high quality guitar makers as Antonio Marín Montero and Jose Marín Plazuelo. Paco Santiago Marín is marked by excellence and respect for the tradition of the Granada school and Traditional Spanish guitar making system.

From a very young age, Paco Santiago Marín began learning the art of guitar making under the tutelage of his uncle, the legendary Antonio Marín Montero, one of the most influential references in the history of guitar craftsmanship. Thanks to this privileged training, he developed a profound knowledge of wood selection, the secrets of handcrafted construction, and the pursuit of a sound that reflects the tradition and identity of the Granada guitar.

Paco Santiago Marín’s guitars are distinguished by their tonal balance, exceptional projection, and richness of nuances. They are a paradigmatic example of traditional Granada construction, with meticulous attention to detail and a sound full of beauty and colors.

The recognition of his work has not only been consolidated locally but has also transcended internationally. He is, together with his uncle Antonio, perhaps the Granada guitar maker with the greatest projection among professional classical guitarists worldwide , who choose his guitars for their extraordinary quality. Thanks to this projection, his name has become synonymous with excellence in the world of classical and flamenco guitar.

Throughout his career, Paco Santiago Marín has continued to perfect his art, exploring new ways to optimize the sonority and comfort of his instruments without losing the essence of tradition. His legacy is a testament to artisanal mastery and ensuring that the tradition of the Granada school remains a benchmark in guitar construction worldwide.