Ribbecke Guitars

Bay Area luthier Tom Ribbecke had some of the most beautiful guitars at the show, including models highlighting the amazing wood from “the tree”—an old-growth mahogany tree with figuring that rivals flamed and quilted maple. These guitars also feature Ribbecke’s Halfling technology: The treble side of the soundboard is carved, as on a traditional archtop, while the bass side resembles a flattop.
rgcguitars.com

The inaugural Santa Barbara Acoustic Instrument Celebration was held September 29 to October 2 in sunny coastal California. The event brought hundreds of top luthiers and players who displayed their craftsmanship, gave seminars, and held intimate concerts. The Earl Warren Showgrounds served as a fitting venue, as in decades past it hosted concerts from such acts as Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, the Beach Boys, the Doors, Cream, the Grateful Dead, and Janis Joplin.

The show pulled widely from Canada and Europe, with heavy representation from the U.S. West Coast. Also on sale were top-grade woods, inlay materials, and custom bindings. Luthiers were open with their time, and many fans enjoyed hearing builders talk shop. Among the visitors was Santa Barbara resident and guitar pickup guru, Seymour Duncan, who could be seen checking out all the beautiful instruments on display.