David Rubio
David Rubio to me is the finest luthier of the last thirty years. The simple fact that not only does he make one of the greatest guitars of all time, he also was world renown for his harpsichords and lutes and the string family. I doubt if many of the great young violinists, violists or cellists are aware that their new concert instrument was built by a man who originally only made guitars. I have often been amazed while visiting him at his home in Cambridge, England at the knowledge David possesses. Much of the research on Stradavarius finish and structural components was done by David and Cambridge University. He continues to research both old and new building techniques.
I am truly saddened to think that the young generation of guitarists are not aware of David Rubio. Much of Julian Bream's best playing was done on a Rubio. David changed the sound of the guitar from a typically Spanish, robust sound to an deep but brilliant orchestral concept. The sound allows the player to create wide variations of color unlike many of the newer makers today. Makers like Thomas Humphrey admittedly owe much of their early inspiration to Rubio. Other than Ramirez it was the guitar of choice of the late 60's through the mid 70's. I think that David just got a little tired of making only guitars. Like any artist he wanted to do something different and turned his ability to making early instruments and also the traditional string family.
But now he has turned back to making a few instruments a year. Those who are lucky enough will have a chance to hear a new Rubio. He has incorporated some new ideas in his construction and is back to making some truly great guitars. It makes me happy to see this great luthier in love again with the guitar. This 8-string guitar pictured he made for me in 1994. It is not for sale.
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