Testimonials
Here is a sample of the many kind notes I've received.

Hi Bob,

I feel I am connecting more with your guitar. I take very good care of it and play it with great frequency. Admittedly, I am grateful to have such a fine instrument as I am reminded how much I truly love it every time I play it.

I have recently added a '57 Velazquez to my collection of a '61 Velazquez, and of course the 2000 Desmond—all are exceptional examples of the classical guitar. The Desmond has the same sweet fullness of sound that the older guitars have, which is a rare quality in a modern instrument, yet there is a subtle brightness that I enjoy.

I am also particularly fond of the ease of expression that the Desmond allows. I believe this to be one of it's great attributes. For example, vibrato, subtle or otherwise, projects with great clarity and sustain. Not to mention, this instrument could be on display as a work of art. This is my humble attempt to associate words with the emotions I have for your guitar.

I hope you can find meaning in them as well as much deserved gratification.

Take care,
Heath Barefoot

Hello Bob,

So far, everyone who has seen the guitar LOVES it! Customers are very impressed by it's beauty of workmanship as well as it's tone and playability. It will be listed soon on my site. Good work!

Best regards,
Dan Zeff

Bob,

I could not wait to get home this afternoon to play the guitar. I was able to play for about 30 minutes before I had to break away and prepare supper. The guitar is FANTASTIC! I will probably be up much too late tonight getting to know my new friend!

Thanks a bunch!
Michael Coleman

Bob,

Woweeeeee! What a guitar! Virginia was here teaching & she played it briefly & was VERY impressed. It's very open for so new an instrument. Of course, it's also gorgeous.

Congrats!!
Beverly

Dear Bob,

Friday afternoon I received your package with the photos of my new guitar. Only now can I react because I was away when they arrived. It is absolutely stunning what I see! Very detailistic work. Needless to say, I can't wait to have mine in my hands. Good job, maestro!!!

Have a nice week!
Jeannouel van Leeuwen

Hey Bob,

I just spent some time checking out your website. It is superb, like your instruments. You can really see the quality in the guitars. I will spread the word. You are a true artist and I am proud to know you.

Love,
Mitch

Robert,

I was perusing your website this morning and felt compelled to tell you what an inspiration you are to an aspiring luthier. Your work is stunning! Thank you.

Yours,
Loren Deck

Mr. Desmond,

I just saw your business card in the case of my new "Desmond Guitar" and had to take the opportunity to write. I bought it from Mike Kirkpatrick's guitar studio in Baltimore and I am utterly thrilled with it.

I've been taking lessons for just a year. I had bought a guitar that has been serviceable, but I realized that I wanted to get something special. My teacher told me about Mike and my husband and I went up to see him. (We live about an hour south in Manassas Park, Virginia.) He was very patient to demonstrate guitar after guitar, but there was soon no question about the right one!

It's beautiful, and not just physically, of course. I told a friend that playing my other guitar was a fun way to make music happen. But with this one, it's as though the music is there waiting to be released.

Well, I don't mean to gush, but I am very happy and wanted you to know that your creation is in good hands.

With best wishes,
Ann Weinheimer

Dear Bob,

Everything is going okay here. Lately, there was a professional guitarist, Luis Quintero, in Curacao, giving me a master class. He tried out all of the guitars in my collection. Without knowing, he picked my 1991 Fleta, my 2002 Bernabe "Imperial", and yours, my 2002 Desmond, as the all around best concert guitars!

I will be in Orlando with my family July 7th through the 16th. Can you accept a short visit from me in that time?

Best wishes,
Jeannouel van Leeuwen

Hi Bob,

This guitar is incredible! I am not just saying that. I showed this guitar to a friend, Julie Goldberg, and she loved it and wanted your business card. I also told her to look at your website. This guitar is one of the best sounding I have ever played. Also, you know I love the look as well. I mailed you the check yesterday.

Thank you for a great guitar!
Barry