Marchione Guitars - Guitar Maker Archtop Classical Flamenco Neckthrough Jazz Electric Handmade Guitars by Stephen Marchione Hand crafted in Houston Texas - 713-522-7221

For my Classical and Flamenco guitars I use original designs based on historic models that I feel are successful, utilizing standard dimensions that musicians are comfortable with and understand. After all, the musician is the one who creates their art with the guitar that I make. I want your experience to be as seamless and expressive as possible and feel as if the guitar is part of you. For me, this is a powerful and seductive musical instrument that inspires creativity and a desire to sing with the guitar.

My study of the great Spanish instruments has given me tremendous respect and admiration for the Domingo Esteso/Conde Hermanos lineage as well as the Miguel Rodriquez family. I've owned one Esteso and two Conde's, and I've learned a great deal from them. I've also gained tremendous insight from an Anselmo Solar-Gonzales that I own, which enlightened me to the long-term benefits of instrument stability by incorporating Italian violin making techniques into Spanish construction methods. Also, I owe Tom Blackshear many thanks for his wonderful Rodriguez blueprint and all the wisdom I gained from studying it.

I only use Hot Hide Glue in construction, and I Hand Plane all surfaces prior to glue-up. My classical guitars are French polished and the setup will astound you.

I also want to mention that I was given a large collection of Classical Guitar top wood, in Cedar and Spruce, by my good friend and renowned violin maker Guy Rabut.

Guy purchased this wood while in Violin School in the early 1970s and then never used it as he has only made bowed instruments. He gave it all to me in the late 90s and it's my foundation to a great Classical Guitar build. I feel fortunate that I can offer my customers such rare and properly aged tonewoods.

Here is a nice clip I took in Brownsville of Scott Tennant playing one of my new Classical models. Enjoy!

If you're interested in a Marchione Instrument or would like to have your own signature Mark Whitfield model, please feel free to contact me by e-mail or by phone at 713 522 7221.