Nazareth, PA (July 21, 2008) -- If you''ve considered making the trek to Nazareth, PA, to visit the Martin Guitar factory and museum, here''s some extra motiviation to do on Friday, August 1st -- C.F. Martin & Co is once again opening its factory and museum doors for an annual gathering of Martin players. Past events have hosted over 500 members and their guests; that number is expected to double this year.

A full day of events is planned for this Friday, including factory and museum tours, live music, clinics, demonstrations and an open mic jam session. Chris Martin IV, the sixth generation family head, will be giving a special address.  The company tells us there will be plenty of food and that sunny skies are in the forcast. 

 
“Our annual gathering brings together many generations of the Martin community from musicians and performers to those who just enjoy guitar music,” said Chris Martin IV. “This year’s event, on the occasion of our 175th anniversary, promises to be a day that is packed with celebration and fun.”

For 175 years, C. F. Martin & Company has provided the music community with some of the world’s finest handcrafted acoustic guitars. In 2004, Martin Guitar entered a new chapter in music history with the introduction of the Martin Owners Club, a new way for musicians and fans to enjoy the “Martin experience.”  Membership is open worldwide to anyone who owns or plays a Martin. By joining the Martin Owners Club members receive items that are not available anywhere else, plus access to special Club events, periodic mailings and special discounts.

Below is the schedule of events:

7:30 AM Registration begins with a continental breakfast provided
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Factory and museum tours: Come see where nearly 200 guitars are crafted daily
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Special 175th Anniversary hand cancellation postmarks by the USPS
8:00 AM - 10:45 AM Live musical performances
8:00 AM - 10:45 AM Print signing by artist Robert Goetzl, creator of the 175th anniversary artwork
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM Fishman electronics clinic
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM Children''s Program
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Open mic/jam session
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Grill Out
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Martin Owners Club member address by Chairman and CEO, C.F. Martin IV.
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM String Clinic: Learn everything you''ve ever wanted to know about taking care of your guitar
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM Pearl inlay demonstration: Observe first-hand how appointments are inlaid by Martin craftsmen
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM LX 175th guitar pick-up: Special anniversary guitars are now ready!
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Open mic/jam sessions

For more information:
C.F. Martin Guitars
Martin Owners Club