2004 Marc Maingard Grand Concert - European Spruce & Brazilian Rosewood #172

The 2004 Grand Concert from Marc Maingard stands as a refined expression of a builder who has quietly earned a place among the world’s most thoughtful acoustic guitar makers. Based in South Africa, Maingard’s work reflects a deep respect for the traditions of classical and steel string construction, shaped by his early exposure to European luthiery and his ongoing pursuit of tonal balance, responsiveness, and artistic identity. His instruments are not built to follow trends. They are built to serve the player, with clarity of voice and a sensitivity that rewards nuance.

This Grand Concert model captures that philosophy beautifully. The European spruce top offers a wide dynamic range with exceptional headroom, delivering a voice that is both articulate and warm. It responds effortlessly to a light touch while maintaining composure under more aggressive playing. Paired with Brazilian rosewood back and sides, the tonal character deepens into something complex and immersive, with rich overtones, piano-like lows, and a shimmering high end that lingers in the air.

The Honduran mahogany neck, carved into a soft modified V profile, provides a comfortable and natural feel in the hand, inviting long sessions without fatigue. Brazilian rosewood is carried through the fingerboard, bridge, and headstock veneer, creating a cohesive tonal and visual identity. Ebony bindings frame the body, fingerboard, soundhole, and headstock with a crisp elegance that highlights the craftsmanship without distraction.

Visually, this instrument carries a distinct artistic voice. The Ndebele-style rosette is a direct nod to Maingard’s South African heritage, bringing cultural depth and individuality to the design. Turquoise fiber purfling along the top and a matching backstrip add a subtle but striking contrast against the natural tones of the woods, giving the guitar a signature aesthetic that feels both organic and intentional.

Functionally, it is built for the serious player. The 25.4 inch scale length provides clarity and projection, while the 1 3/4 inch nut width and 2 3/16 inch bridge spacing offer a balanced platform for both fingerstyle and light flatpicking. Gold Waverly tuning machines ensure smooth, precise tuning stability, and the fully adjustable truss rod allows for fine control over setup. The high gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish enhances resonance while protecting the instrument for decades to come.

Weighing in at just 3 pounds 15 ounces, this guitar feels alive in the hands. It is responsive, resonant, and deeply expressive. Paired with a Hiscox hard case, it is ready for both travel and preservation.

This 2004 Marc Maingard Grand Concert is more than a finely built instrument. It is a reflection of a builder’s lifetime of listening, learning, and refining. For the player who values nuance, heritage, and a voice that feels personal, it offers something rare and enduring.

• European Spruce Top
• Brazilian Rosewood Back & Sides
• Honduran Mahogany Neck
• Brazilian Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
• Brazilian Rosewood Headstock Veneer
• Ebony Body, Fingerboard, Soundhole Headstock Bindings
• Ndebele-Style Rosette
• Turquoise Fiber Top Purfling 
• Turquoise Fiber Backstrip
• Soft Modified V Neck Profile
• Gold Waverly Tuning Machines
• Fully adjustable truss rod
• High gloss nitro lacquer finish
• Hiscox Hard Case
• 25.4" Scale Length
• 1 3/4" Nut Width
• 2 3/16" Bridge Spacing
• 3 lb 15 oz
• #172

For more information on the Marc Maingard Grand Concert, please contact us.