Bob,

Just wanted to tell you how much Colin has been enjoying his new Armin Hanika guitar. All his various teachers have given it high marks, and his peers, even the ones with pricier instruments, think it's a great machine. He loves playing it, polishes it maniacally, and is able to do so much more on it than he ever dreamed was possible. The entire experience at your shop was memorable, and I guarantee that when the day comes that he's ready to move up (I pray that'll be a few years), you'll find us again at your quaint door.

Richard Fullerton, Winston Salem, NC

Mr. Castelluccia & Artists:

I recently purchased a Giambattista G8 from Robert Page at The Guitar Store in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, your distributor. First, let me compliment you on the selection of Robert Page and The Guitar Store as your United States distributor. Theirs is a comfortable store well maintained and attractively arranged. Mr. Page is excited about representing your instruments. He personally assisted me in making a choice as I was visiting his shop in Philadelphia in December of 2005 (my 5th visit in 8 years). Second, I am also excited about the Giambattista guitar. I acknowledge the fact that this instrument is a ?student guitar, however, the craftsmanship, playability and sonority of the G8 is far superior to may higher priced concert instruments. I don't know how you do it for the price. Therefore, on behalf of all the students who will, by your having offered a guitar of such excellent quality, be able to afford a beautiful sounding, well constructed guitar,

Thank you!

Roger Watkins, Greenville, NC

Dear Bob:

I received both guitars Friday evening. The G8 is a winner, as you predicted. I had my teacher, Randy Reed, evaluate it by playing blindfolded and comparing it to his Rozas and the Vowinkle. The volume, clarity and sustain were exceptional, equaling that of the Rozas, and the bass was well integrated with the treble. Randy valued the G8 at the $3,500 to $4,000 range and he's seen a lot of instruments in his concertizing and teaching activities. Having hands a bit smaller than the average man's, I also appreciated the shallower neck design that facilitates fingering. The workmanship is of a high order and the lacquer job is exceptional.

When I show the G8 around the local guitar community here, you may be getting some requests. And I'm curious as to the cedar top model. Could you let me know when you get one in? I'd also like to thank John Penn for his help in this long distance transaction. You've got a new and loyal customer here!

Cordially,

George Oberlander, Duke University, North Carolina

Dear Bob and John,

First, I would like to say that I think that your store is fantastic. I have never had such a pleasant experience.

The Cervantes I purchased is a delight to play. It even sounds better at home. Thank you for all the time that you spent with me. Needless to say, if I know of anyone looking to purchase a new guitar, I will send them your way. Again, thank you for your time and patience.

Sincerely,

Sandy Protich, Newport News, VA

Bob,

I received the Picado Model 53 in good form as expected. I love it, and it sounds great. What more can I say?

However, being an engineer, experienced wood worker and some exposure to the luthier's art, I can see that this guitar was made by a master of his craft. Believe me, I have looked at a lot of the so-called production classical guitars. This kind of workmanship and beautiful tone will not be found on those guitars. Internally, the notched kerfing, nicely shaped & sanded bracing, shaping of the neck block and attention to those details inside the guitar speak to this kind of quality. And of course, on the exterior it is beautiful with equal quality. Please let Mr. Picado know of my satisfaction. Again, thanks for your help, and expect me to be a returning customer.

Sincerely,

Henry Carpender, South Carolina

PS: The only problem I can foresee is the potential for needing to have it surgically removed from my hands at some point in time. Not a bad problem!