On this week’s podcast, we talk to builder Todd Cambio of Fraulini Guitars. While a lot of guitarmakers focus on traditional Martin or Gibson-style instruments, Todd is inspired by guitars built by more obscure vintage instrument brands such as Stella, Larson Bros., Lyon & Healy and Oscar Schmidt. During our talk, Todd talks to us about his start in lutherie and his love for blues music. He then explains the research he did to recreate Lydia Mendoza’s 12-string guitar and his new attempt to create a replica of Lonnie Johnson’s 12-string guitar (both, it turns out, were originally built by San Antonio’s Acosta family). Cambio is equal parts luthier and history detective; we hope you enjoy our talk.
Notes: The photos of the Acostas in their shop are from the San Antonio Light Collection. The photos of Lydia Mendoza are courtesy of the Arhoolie Foundation. Here is the Chris Strachwitz interview with Luis Acosta. Read more about the Johnson guitar via the Fraulini Guitars blog here.
This episode is sponsored by Retrofret Vintage Guitars and Dying Breed Music.
