Enrique García (1868–1922) was a Spanish luthier whose influence on guitar making is still felt today. Born in Madrid, he was the son of Juan García, a guitar maker. In 1883, he began his apprenticeship with Manuel and José Ramírez I, where he honed his craft before setting out on his own. In 1895, García moved to Barcelona, where he opened his own workshop and went on to become the founder of the “Barcelona School” of guitar making, which would greatly influence future generations of luthiers, including Francisco Simplicio and Ignacio Fleta.
García’s guitars were renowned for their unique style and craftsmanship, characterized by increased stiffness in the soundboards (with 8 fan braces, compared to the 7 used by many other makers) and stunning decorative work. His instruments ranged from simple, elegant designs to highly ornate guitars, known for their intricate inlay work and carved headstocks.
His reputation quickly spread internationally, particularly after winning first prize at the 1893 Chicago World Fair. His guitars were favored by legendary guitarists such as Francisco Tárrega and Domingo Prat, helping to establish his reputation as one of the leading luthiers of the era. García’s guitars were also widely exported to South America, where they were embraced by a growing guitar scene, particularly in Argentina.
Today, Enrique García’s guitars are prized by collectors and performers for their exceptional sound and craftsmanship, making them some of the most sought-after instruments in the world of classical guitar.