Thijs van der Harst is a well-established Dutch luthier, known for his fine stringed instruments and his attention to detail. For over twenty years he has been focused on producing mainly gypsy jazz guitars, and it shows. The last couple of years Thijs has expanded into Mandolin and Mandola production; the perfect medium for his exacting craftsmanship to shine through.  This guitar is one of Thijs’ newest instruments, and over the last few years it seems that he has been experimenting a bit in the workshop to refine his design. The results of the literal “woodshedding” are very clear in this Walnut SE ( Selmer style) model.  An exceptionally fine grained Spruce top and Walnut back and sides are highlighted by the choice of a dark Zebrano binding. The Walnut neck has a very slinky matte finish, smooth to the touch, allowing the hand to glide with ease while changing position. Fine appointments such as High grade Rainer Müller tuners and tailpiece ( with brass endpin ) compliment the unique TH walnut veneer headstock design; there are no better tuners on the market for Gypsy guitars.

Sonically, the improvements/changes in Thijs’ design bring this instrument in line with some of the more innovative Luthiers today. Qualities such as a pure, even sustain which lasts just long enough, but cuts short of excessive overtone ringing. The full and clear bass register, Busato like in character, has Cello like elements in the depth of tone. The midrange carries elements of a classical guitar, warm and rich, but not at all overbearing. The highs contain the signature Van der Harst attack, dry and bell like in clarity.  Playing one of his new instruments, one can easily hear similarities to a Holo, Marin, Cholet or Carmantrand. Not at all influenced by one another, but all creating instruments with the best possible response, playability and sound using modern design, while respecting the roots of early Franco Italian lutherie.