Martinez - Torres Arias 1/2 RN + Housse

The Martinez Torres Arias 1/2 RN + case supports a child’s first steps towards playing the classical guitar, with a size that naturally encourages young pupils to pick up the instrument. Its 1/2 size, part of the Torres series, sits comfortably on the lap without the body being too large for a child’s smaller frame.

The guitar’s character is then derived from the wood. The solid mahogany top produces a warm, round and rich tone, with prominent mid-range frequencies that bring depth to those first melodies. The mahogany back and sides extend this tonal quality throughout the body. With its natural colour and natural finish, the wood remains the focal point, even in its visual appearance.

The 50 mm (1.97") nut on the Martinez Torres Arias 1/2 RN provides a generous string spacing. Each finger finds its place without touching the one next to it – a detail that matters when you’re learning your first chords. No grand claims here, just plenty of space to get off to a good start.

The case provided protects the guitar from music lessons to your bedroom, and from the boot of your car to your holiday destination. Martinez is a brand that was founded in Germany in 1978 and moved to Guangzhou in 2005, the year in which the American luthier Kenny Hill joined the brand. This heritage of classical Spanish tradition is evident even in this small-sized model. For a first proper small-sized guitar, it certainly delivers.