Manuel Adalid - 2025 - Homenaje Double Top No. 28

About the luthier

Manuel Adalid, born in 1951, is one of Spain’s most accomplished contemporary luthiers. Raised in a family of guitar makers, he learned his craft from his father, Manuel Adalid Lázaro, as well as esteemed luthiers Francisco Esteve Calatayud and Antonio Monfort. Following business studies at the University of Valencia, he established a guitar trading company at age 18 and quickly became a leading client of Francisco Esteve Guitars. During this period, he also worked summers as an apprentice at the Esteve workshop, laying the groundwork for his technical formation. At 23, he fully committed to guitar making and returned to Guitarras Francisco Esteve, where he completed his apprenticeship under the guidance of his mentors. In 1980, he was appointed manager of the company, overseeing its expansion in both infrastructure and personnel. Under his direction, Esteve’s workshop tripled in size and gained international prestige. Beyond his managerial role, Adalid has contributed to the advancement of Spanish guitar making through international lectures and continuous research into modern construction techniques. Recognized as a Master Craftsman by the Generalitat Valenciana and currently serving as President of the Spanish Musical Instruments Association (AFIMA), he remains dedicated to refining his art and exploring new technologies in guitar building.

About the guitar

The Manuel Adalid – 2025 Homenaje No. 28 exemplifies Adalid’s refined approach to modern classical guitar construction. This double-top model features a spruce soundboard paired with Ziricote back and sides, internally reinforced with cypress to enhance both projection and structural integrity. Designed for the concert stage, the guitar projects with notable volume and presence, making it ideal for both solo and ensemble settings. Its nitrocellulose finish provides durability and preserves the tonal qualities of the wood over time. Acoustically, the Homenaje No. 28 delivers impressive clarity and balance. The trebles are thick and well-defined, sustaining clearly above the full, dark basses. This coherence across registers makes it a versatile instrument capable of delivering both power and nuance. Whether used by a professional concert artist or a dedicated student, this guitar offers a responsive and satisfying playing experience that supports refined musical interpretation.