Ignacio Fleta e hijos1973 – Spain

Here is a ‘late-period’ Fleta from 1973 in almost perfect condition. Ignacio Fleta (1897–1977) made around 200 guitars during his 20-year career. Andrés Segovia, John Williams, Julian Bream and Alexandre Lagoya played Fleta guitars for much of their careers and recorded some of their most famous albums on these instruments.

The guitar is in almost perfect condition; the top is completely intact with no repairs, and the finish has been restored to the highest standard. The Fustero tuning machines are original, as are the nut and bridge. The frets have been replaced as required and are in excellent condition. There are a few signs of wear on the soundboard and slight discolouration of the rosette that has developed over the years.

1897: Ignacio Fleta was born in a small village in Spain. When he was just 13, he went to Barcelona to work with his 2 brothers, who made strings instruments. Ignacio is a cellist and  spent his time making bowed string instruments and playing the cello. He takes lessons with Pablo Casals.

1927: At the age of 30, Ignacio sets up his own workshop, making violins and a few guitars (barely one a year), inspired by Simplicio and Torres.

1950: It wasn’t until he was 53 that Ignacio decided to devote himself to the guitar. In 1955 he met André Segovia and was captivated by the master. Together with his sons, he imagined guitars that could rival the musicality of the quartet’s instruments and suit the master Segovia.

1957: André Segovia acquires three guitars from Ignacio to replace his Hauser.

1961: John William receives his Fleta, which he will play for over 12 years.

Ignacio died in 1977; his sons and grandsons continued to build Fleta guitars, and it took 20 years to get a Fleta.