Juan Antonio Barba: Master Luthier for the 2025 Spanish Guitar Building Course

In the June 2025 edition of the Spanish guitar building course at Solera Artisans School, we are honored to have Juan Antonio Barba, one of the most respected master luthiers worldwide

Tradition of guitar makers

As the son of the legendary Francisco Barba, Juan Antonio has continued the family legacy that has shaped the world of flamenco guitars. His father, Francisco Barba, works alongside his two sons, Juan Antonio and Paco Barba, preserving the handcrafted method that has made the Barba family renowned.

The history of Francisco Barba Guitars

With more than 60 years of experience, the Barba family has perfected the art of guitar building, producing instruments that musicians around the world wait for years to acquire. Francisco Barba is not only recognized as one of the most precise and subtle guitar builders in history but also for the meticulous French polish finish on his guitars—a detail that adds a unique dimension to their already exceptional construction. The combination of masterful craftsmanship and refined finishing processes makes these guitars true masterpieces.

Visit to the Barba Family Workshop

In the video, Jordi from Flamenco Guitars for Sale visit the workshop of the Barba family, renowned guitar makers in Seville. Francisco Barba and his sons, Juan and Paco, explain their guitar-making process, from selecting the wood to the varnishing process, which they carry out using traditional techniques with great attention to detail. Francisco shares his work philosophy, based on artisanal quality without worrying about the time invested, to ensure each instrument is unique and personal. Juan and Paco have learned this craft from a young age, inheriting the skills and passion from their father.

Additionally, the video highlights the importance of caring for guitars, especially those varnished with shellac, to extend their lifespan. The guitar makers recommend cleaning the guitar after each use, as sweat can damage the varnish over time.

The video concludes with a visit to the Almoraima flamenco venue, where local artists demonstrate their passion for flamenco in an intimate setting, reinforcing the cultural and emotional value of the art of guitar-making and flamenco in Seville.

How to apply shellac with french polish?

Juan Antonio Barba, who will lead the French polish masterclass during the course, has extensive experience in this delicate technique. He consistently emphasizes that the application of French polish is a deeply personal and sensory process that requires the guidance of a master but also invites builders to explore and discover their own path in the art of finishing. This blend of structured teaching and individual exploration is one of the key values that makes the course so special.

June 2025 with
Juan Antonio Barba
4500€
We’re now accepting resgistrations for our next course

Build Your Own Guitar Under the Guidance of Juan Antonio Barba

The Spanish guitar building course at Solera Artisans School is not only a technical experience but also an opportunity to work directly with Juan Antonio Barba and a team of renowned master luthiers.

Students will have the chance to build their own guitar using top-quality materials, exclusively selected by Maderas Barber, and high-end tools. This unique setting takes place at the Solera Flamenca Village, located at the foot of the majestic Montserrat mountain range near Barcelona, offering an inspiring environment to perfect the art of lutherie.

The combination of Juan Antonio’s experience, knowledge, and the teaching team, along with the stunning natural setting, elevates this course to an exceptional level. Students will not only learn the art of guitar construction but also immerse themselves in a transformative experience at the heart of Spanish artistry.

Learn from the Masters: Enroll Today

This course is not just a masterclass in how to build a guitar, but a complete immersion in the legacy of the world’s most respected master luthiers. From June 25 to july 6, Juan Antonio Barba will be the master luthier for the June edition, guiding students through every step of the guitar-building process. Additionally, Juan Antonio will also lead the French polish masterclass during the August edition, where Francisco Sánchez will be the master luthier in charge.

The course offers an all-encompassing experience: students will not only learn how to build their own guitar but will also participate in the French polish masterclass, led by experts in the field. The course includes meals, transportation between the recommended hotel (Hostal Guilleumes) and the course location, and an exciting lineup of private concerts and conferences featuring some of the renowned guitarists in the flamenco world. Held in the picturesque Solera Flamenca Village, located at the foot of Montserrat near Barcelona, this course offers the perfect setting for learning, relaxation, and inspiration.

This is more than just a course—it’s an exclusive opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the art of Spanish guitar-making, all while enjoying a unique and luxurious environment. Whether you’re an experienced luthier or an enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge, this experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from the very best in the field.

Spots for the June 2025 course are limited, so reserve your spot today and ensure your participation in this extraordinary journey of guitar-building, music, and artistry. For reservations and more information, you can contact Carlos through the following form.

Carlos

Carlos García is the co-director of the Solera Artisans School and co-founder of Solera Flamenca.
Some of the best guitars in history have passed through his hands. His career makes him a reference in the world of Spanish guitars.
Just fill out the form and send us your messages. You can also make an appointment with Carlos, who can explain in detail how the All Inclusive proposal for the course works.




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