Catalog
This is a presentation of the instrument models I build for sale. Please see my catalog "lutes, theorbo, guitars, vihuela" above. If you want to order an instrument please contact me
at lars.torressen@gmail.com .
Wood
I make the soundboards from selected european spruce. First the dealer makes a classification and selection. Then I make my own selection to ensure the acoustical properties in the wood I use is as good as it can get. I only use quarter sawn spruce that has a straight grain were the wood fibres are running parallel to the top (no runout). My instruments are made with the traditional selection of wood species, among them ebony and rosewood that I bought long time ago. In 2017 ebony and many types of rosewood was listed as endangered species at the CITES list. Since 2019 the restrictions on the rosewood species have ended. (except Brasilian rosewood) link: https://reverb.com/news/cites-restrictions-on-musical-instruments-could-be-coming-to-an-end
I use this old stock as long as it last while turning to other sustainable wood species. It is of course possible to make wonderful instruments without ebony and rosewood! Get a quote. I am living right in the middle of one of the worlds best climates for yew and holly. Fruitwoods, wild cherry and hard sycamore is also of plentiful supply locally.
Quality
I put my effort into making good, and loud sounding instruments that meet the demands of professional musicians. Feedback from customers is very important to me and an important guideline in my work.
Musical expression
I study the facsimiles of the lute manuscripts and printed tablatures. This knowledge about repertoire and performance practice, guides me in making instruments that serves your goals of musical expression.
Customers
Today my list of customers are growing, see the video links at my website to videos by Jadran Duncumb, Polivios Issariotis and Sergio Coto Blanco. Many professionals bought my instruments that was made between 1988 and 2003: Erik Stenstadvold, Rolf Lislevand, Vegard Lund, Thomas Boysen, Jarl Strømdahl, Andrea C. Baur, Njål Vindenes and Petter Richter.
Authenticity
My lutes are based on measurements and drawings of the originals in the museums. Proper understanding of the original instrument, the functionality and material structure of every tiny part is a goal for my work. I build the same way the old masters may have done, paying attention to the details that is important for sound, playability and catching the "soul" of the instrument. Instruments were changed through history and adapted to new musical styles. When searching for a good original to either copy or base a new project on, it is important to recognize these changes and only copy what is relevant for the repertoire and musical expression the new lute is meant to serve. If on a budget, or just to keep life simple, you may choose an instrument for instance an 8 course lute that will cover most 15-17th century repertoire.
This is a presentation of the instrument models I build for sale. Please see my catalog "lutes, theorbo, guitars, vihuela" above. If you want to order an instrument please contact me
at lars.torressen@gmail.com .
Wood
I make the soundboards from selected european spruce. First the dealer makes a classification and selection. Then I make my own selection to ensure the acoustical properties in the wood I use is as good as it can get. I only use quarter sawn spruce that has a straight grain were the wood fibres are running parallel to the top (no runout). My instruments are made with the traditional selection of wood species, among them ebony and rosewood that I bought long time ago. In 2017 ebony and many types of rosewood was listed as endangered species at the CITES list. Since 2019 the restrictions on the rosewood species have ended. (except Brasilian rosewood) link: https://reverb.com/news/cites-restrictions-on-musical-instruments-could-be-coming-to-an-end
I use this old stock as long as it last while turning to other sustainable wood species. It is of course possible to make wonderful instruments without ebony and rosewood! Get a quote. I am living right in the middle of one of the worlds best climates for yew and holly. Fruitwoods, wild cherry and hard sycamore is also of plentiful supply locally.
Quality
I put my effort into making good, and loud sounding instruments that meet the demands of professional musicians. Feedback from customers is very important to me and an important guideline in my work.
Musical expression
I study the facsimiles of the lute manuscripts and printed tablatures. This knowledge about repertoire and performance practice, guides me in making instruments that serves your goals of musical expression.
Customers
Today my list of customers are growing, see the video links at my website to videos by Jadran Duncumb, Polivios Issariotis and Sergio Coto Blanco. Many professionals bought my instruments that was made between 1988 and 2003: Erik Stenstadvold, Rolf Lislevand, Vegard Lund, Thomas Boysen, Jarl Strømdahl, Andrea C. Baur, Njål Vindenes and Petter Richter.
Authenticity
My lutes are based on measurements and drawings of the originals in the museums. Proper understanding of the original instrument, the functionality and material structure of every tiny part is a goal for my work. I build the same way the old masters may have done, paying attention to the details that is important for sound, playability and catching the "soul" of the instrument. Instruments were changed through history and adapted to new musical styles. When searching for a good original to either copy or base a new project on, it is important to recognize these changes and only copy what is relevant for the repertoire and musical expression the new lute is meant to serve. If on a budget, or just to keep life simple, you may choose an instrument for instance an 8 course lute that will cover most 15-17th century repertoire.
Ergonomics
Sitting position is extremely important in the long run to avoid injuries. Two main concerns I put attention to in this regard: 1. My instruments have a button
for a shoulder strap. 2. Weight balance of the instrument. Neck and neck extensions have to be made strong and light, remember; a good lute body is extremely light and resonant.
Instrument cases
At an additional expence I will deliver the instrument with a made to measure case from either Kingham or Estuches Manzano . Links: http://kingham.merion.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/Estuches-a-medida-para-instrumentos-musicales-783324178346179/
https://www.facebook.com/Estuches-a-medida-para-instrumentos-musicales-783324178346179/
Every instrument is different, many are good, some are very good, every lutenist knows that. The price will be set accordingly. For the most popular models I normally build a pair at the time and you may choose. This is the most fair way to set the price. Prices on my website is exclusive instrument case.
Norwegian VAT may be subtracted at export.
