Cittern, Bouzouki, Mandola, etc.

I build Guitars of all sizes, Mandolin, Mandola, Bouzouki, Cittern, or hybrid “Guizouki”, in the western/Celtic, or Nordic style (see below). Please get in touch with your wishes and check out the instruments I’ve completed by scrolling through the photos here or on my instagram page.
 
My approach to lutherie comes from years of collecting and playing stringed instruments from all over the world. I have always modified my instruments in the search for different sounds and feelings while playing. I consider myself a musician first and woodworker second. After years of modifications I decided to make my own Nordic Cittern, inspired by the playing of Swedish musician Ale Carr. While playing this 10 stringed teardrop instrument in several musical groups, I was approached by people wanting me to build their dream instrument.
 
The “Nordic” style of construction for Citterns, Bouzoukis, and Mandolas is where the bass string courses are a steel string paired with a nylon string. This gives a softer feel to the instrument and means it can sound sometimes like an oud or a lute, or even a classical guitar, but still with the shimmer of steel strings.
 
I use the best quality wood, strings, and hardware I can find for the budget we decide. Spruce or Cedar soundboards, hardwood from my collection including Walnut, Padauk, Wenge, Sapele Mahogany, Maple, and many more available. I also have a fine selection of New Zealand native timbers including one of my favourites River Matai, and several others - Kauri, Rimu, Kahikatea, Puriri.
 
Ordering any of these instruments involves getting in touch to finalise a design idea, making a deposit of half of the quoted price in order to enter my building schedule, and paying the final instalment upon the completion your instrument.
Pricing starts from $3000NZD (Approx $1850 USD)
Estimated shipping costs are as follows:
North America - $125 USD
UK - 100 Pounds
Europe - 115 EURO
Australia - $80 AUD
New Zealand - $30 NZD
Please contact me for more accurate quotes as these are just estimates.
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Examples of recently commissioned instruments:
Nordic Cittern with Spruce top, Walnut back and sides, Walnut and Padauk laminated neck, Bloodwood binding, Wenge bridge, including case.
Price $3500NZD
 
Guizouki - Guitar body with 10 strings in 5 courses tuned D,E,D,A,D. With pin-point capos, Spruce top, body cutaway, including case.
Price $3800NZD