Santos Hernandez, 1928

Few names in the history of Spanish guitar making carry the same significance as Santos Hernández (1874–1943). A former craftsman in the Manuel Ramírez workshop, Santos went on to build guitars for some of the most important artists of his era, taking the legacy of Torres into a new generation.

This particular instrument, built in 1928, is a magnificent example of his mature style. It was owned for more than three decades by Adam Holzman, one of America’s leading classical guitarists and Professor of Guitar at The University of Texas at Austin. It served as one of his main practice instruments and was cherished for its depth, responsiveness, and beauty.

Key Features

• Maker: Santos Hernández (Madrid, Spain)

• Condition: Excellent

• Provenance: Ex. Adam Holzman

If you're interested in purchasing, please write to me at evan@guitarcollection.com

Tone & Character

The first note reveals exactly why Santos Hernández is so revered. The basses are incredibly open, with a bright yet deep resonance that supports the trebles perfectly. The trebles themselves are rich, singing, and endlessly colorful. The balance between registers is seamless and alive.

This guitar rewards the player with immediate feedback and a massive dynamic range. Whether played softly or with intensity, it maintains clarity, projection, and tonal beauty. It is one of those rare historic guitars that makes you forget its age because of how responsive and even it feels across the entire fingerboard.

Construction & Details

• Year: 1928

• Top: Spruce

• Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood

• Neck: Mahogany with comfortable rounded profile

• Bridge: Indian Rosewood with bone saddle and tie block cap

• Repairs: Restoration by Manuel Velázquez workshop (2004), fully stable since

• Rosette: Classic Santos design with understated color palette

• Condition: Excellent for its age, with light wear from use

The signature headstock angle that Santos favored gives the instrument its distinctive look and contributes to its crisp, immediate response.

Playability

This guitar has a low, comfortable setup and a perfectly rounded neck that feels natural in the hand. The lightweight body and superb responsiveness make it an inspiring guitar to play for extended periods, whether in practice or concert.

Provenance

Owned and played for more than 30 years by Adam Holzman, this guitar carries a remarkable artistic history. It remains in outstanding playing condition and represents an important link in the lineage of Spanish guitar making.

About Santos Hernández (1874–1943)

Santos Hernández was one of the greatest Spanish luthiers of the 20th century and a direct successor to the Torres and Manuel Ramírez tradition. He apprenticed with Manuel Ramírez and later took over the shop after Ramírez’s death. His instruments are celebrated for their beauty, refinement, and unmatched tonal quality.

Famous guitarists who performed on Santos Hernández guitars include:

• Miguel Llobet

• Emilio Pujol

• Regino Sainz de la Maza (who premiered Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez on a Santos)

• The Romero family

• Many others who helped define the modern classical guitar sound

Today, Santos Hernández guitars are among the most coveted instruments in the world, prized by both collectors and performers.