What a gorgeous Martin. I work there and saw it go through the custom shop. Unfortunately, I didn't get to meet you but just thankful for your support of C.F. Martin. I'm sure you'll play the hell outta that acoustic! Cheers!
In addition to all the (well deserved) kudos to Mary for designing and sharing this guitar, let us tip our hat(s) to Martin for agreeing to work with Mary in crafting this beautiful instrument. Wishing Mary many years of joy making music!
It’s a beautiful instrument, Mary. You had the chance to make it your own before you first played it, and there’s just no way to understate how important the relationship between a performer and their instrument really is. I look forward to hearing more of the music you make together.
I love my OOO-16 from 1993. I also loved the Martin factory tour. I like the look of the unfinished wood inside but I like the smell even better. I think that's why they call it rosewood.
Same… one year ago. I cycle through 6 guitars and pulled it out again yesterday. It’s sitting next to my D15 in my office because I like variety while I procrastinate 😂
What an experience. I got to tour the factory in around 1984. Played a D-35 and was hooked, but took me about 30 years to be able to afford one. Priceless experience you must have had customizing this instrument. Looks and sounds wonderful. You play so beautifully. Singing is so nice. My words don't really express it adequately. Congratulations. Great story, love it. Keep up the great work.
The relationship with the people who build the instrument is such a privilege. Almost all of the objects we use are mass produced now but the process of working with a luthier is much like it must have been many generations ago. I've had a chance to do it with two different builders and I'm grateful for it.
Martin company told me that ny money would not purchase a custom shop guitar of my choosing. That i had to go through one of their dealers. That i could not buy it direct,or have it made with out going through a martin dealership. I just wonder did clapton,john mayer, all the great successful guitarst go through a dealership. No i dont think so. So i will spend my money with a different custom luthier. I have a 00 28 modern delux that just dosent perform the way it should. It never holds adequate tune to pitch,always 2 or 3 points flat or sharp. The break angle at the saddle almost flat lines . I think some one did a bad set up in the factory,or at sweetwater where i purchased it . A guitar at that price level if properly taken care of should be dependable and hold tune,and be a joy to play instead of a grueling ordeal to go on stage with.
Gosh, Mary, I got emotional watching this. That guitar is so you. May you go on making incredible music for years to come! Much love, and God's blessings to you! ❤
Mary, to say that guitar is stunning is a far cry short of it's glorious look, sound and aesthetic. You are worthy and deserving of such an amazing instrument. Love you, love your music. I'd never imagine to be able to do full justice to that guitar as I am a heavy strummer only worthy of making such noise on big ole dreadnoughts. Good for you Mary. I am so very happy for you. I look forward to all the music you create with that and all you other instruments(including your sultry voice.)
The elements of this guitar blow my mind. So well thought out. And yes, I love how you thought about the lighting when picking the finish. You're such a TH-camr!
Just by listening to you speak, it is so obvious how proud and blessed you are to have such an incredible instrument designed and crafted for you. You have an incredible talent and the guitar has beautiful, warm and rich tones that truly compliment your amazing voice. Congratulation.
Working with a luthier/friend to put your idea into a true piece of art is an amazing experience. I did it between ‘94-‘96 with Michael Lewis, Grass Valley, California. We (I say we killed a bear, but Michael shot it) based it on a 1938 000-42, like Clapton’s in Unpluged. We used Brazilian and Engleman spruce. With a little bear claw, and 000-42 inlay patterns. It was shown at Heildsburg in ‘96, before I had even had the chance to play it since it was finished. I performed with it in honkytonks and dives for 15 years. It’s been back and forth coast to coast a few times and to the Redneck Riviera at least 3 or 4 times a year. It’s been through 2 fires, one at my house and one at Micheal’s shop. I was admiring it soon after it was finished and noticed a very thin metal outline of some of the inlay, and I asked Michael exact what kind of metal this was, so fine and shiny around the orchid? He said, “beer can”
Oh my - when a guitar is an extension of the musician - in your case it would have to be a beautiful, stunning, impressive and unique instrument. This is incredible. Martin has delivered.
I love Martin's OM and auditorium guitars. They have such beautiful nuance to their sound that dreadnoughts rarely do. I'm also a fan of Martin's satin finish. Aside from the hypothetical that it may let the wood breathe more, what I really like is that the top isn't fully sealed from your arm/hand oils and the guitar eventually shows just how loved it has been.
That is one of the best sounding Martins I have ever heard. Tastefully appointed, not over done. It will sound even better year after year. The aging toner brings out the beautiful grain. So cool that you were able to pick out the wood. New Martins smell great. I like your Spire song as well, it sounds wonderful on that guitar! Play on!
Beautiful instrument. Though unable play a guitar (though a childhood flautist and tuba player, my fingers never could never get the finger movements right), I loved going on a factory tour at C.F. Martin as part of a work teambuilding trip in 2018. Watching the builders practicing their craft was amazing. So was meeting Chris in the museum after our tour and hearing those who knew how to play making wonderful music in the demo room. I grew up going to the park for family reunions just blocks away from the factory never knowing it was there until well into my 30s (which was many, many years ago). Martin is a treasure. I hope you’ll pay the Lehigh’s Valley a visit again to perform (cough, cough, Musikfest).
I purchased my first Martin 000-18 in 1963 and it was such great guitar. I can't imagine what this lovely guitar must be like to play. I went on to own a '47 Dreadnaught and a Guild rosewood 12 string later but nothing ever played as well and sounded as good at the small body 000-18.
Mary! Congratulations on your new Martin. Absolutely stunning! Play it with Love! Thank you for all you do for the guitar community with your videos and for the world with your wonderful music! I love your perspectives, stylings, and generosity towards your art. I’m so grateful that I tumbled into your world! Keep on Rocking in the Free World…✌️❤️🌞
Congrats in the new guitar! It's pretty! Love how they binded it and inlayed around the neck and body! Now the fun starts! Every guitar has its own voice. You get to find it and help it sing! They are all different and its always exciting to explore a new one! Did ya name it yet?
Wonderful. I had a custom guitar built (a personalised D-42) at Martin in 2006 and went to Pennsylvania to pick it up at the factory together with my late younger brother. A wonderful experience, with wonderful memories, and I treasure that guitar. I hope this one will also give you all those types of wonderful memories Mary. I love the OM body shape, and very interesting to see you chose the slotted headstock.
Dear Mary.....what a spectacularly beautiful guitar...with a lovely choice of historic and personal attributes.(Love the bear claw) Martin have always been the beacon to which all the other builders have aspired. I'm making an OM at the moment and it's sooooo difficult.....I've never owned a Martin (yet) as I was ambushed and found a Collings by accident which fits me just right, but ...one day ... I'll have a Marin OM too..... Thanks for all your great TH-cams.... you're great......xx
You have impeccable taste. It is to your credit that Martin took on this project with you. You have been recognized for your contribution to music and I am happy for you. Wishing you many years of discovery and inspiration together. Congrats.
Agree totally with your satin finish choice. I like its look and sound better, and it's way easier to take good pictures of, in the event you wind up selling it. Great choices for the inlay.
A Martin with a slotted headstock and 14 frets: YAY! And it sounds seriously great, although much of that is the player. Also, the bling comes off way more tastefull than the usual "42" and "45" models: the fingerboard and bridge inlays are perfect and keep the whole effect tasteful. How about twisting Martin's arms to make an OM-21 with that headstock and an engleman top? It could be a Mary Spender Model for the rest of us, yet not impinge on the unique space of that instrument. PLEASE!!!!
Yes please!!! That would be my dream guitar. It’s a shame we’re only left with the OMJM and it’s 1-11/16” nut width. A 1-3/4” and Englemann top would be amazing. Throw in a slotted headstock and I’d buy a backup lol.
I’ve actually been to the Martin Guitar co. Back in the late 60’s they were using Ebony, mahogany, rosewood, etc. The scraps were in the dumpster, yes I went dumpster diving 😊. I still have some of the scrap ivory the threw away. Mary your guitar is wonderful but in your hands it’s heavenly..
I recently purchased a used OM13 authentic 1933 on Reverb, it was not VTS, but was made in 2012 so the Addie top and braces are 12yrs old. I was a dreadnought guy but bam I love this OM! Loved you presentation.
I've had a Martin for over a decade now and its the only acoustic I'll ever need. And even though its not an expensive model, or an OM, theres something about them and the way they play and the way they record. They're superb instruments. Each to their own I guess, but I'm sticking with mine, its never ever let me down.
Stunning guitar in the hands of great player. Lovely. Nothing sounds like a Martin. I live a short distance from the factory and they are beautiful people. You are a lucky lady.
I have played a D size guitar for years and in my "old age" I am now playing a Martin M-36. A OOOO size. I absolutely love this guitar. You have designed an extraordinarily beautiful instrument. Best regards.
Mary, every aspect of that guitar is entirely unique, and amazing, exactly like you! Love your music, your content, and truly enjoy watching your development as an artist and a person. Much love, and thank you for giving us so much of yourself.
What a wonderful guitar you have. I know how you feel because I too am happy to have a custom built 00045 with my signature. There are many fine guitars in the world, but this particular model is a dream come true. Of course it's a pleasure to own one, but what warms the heart the most is playing on it.
That is a gorgeous instrument. Incredible stylistic choices with the slotted headstock, and bear claw top and the back wood too. Might be the single best looking OM guitar I've ever seen.
My first real good guitar was a Martin D37 that I bought at my local music store back in Chicago. I saw while getting string for my electric and having always wanted a Martin bought on the spot. I love it. And good for you Mary, having your own speced out Martin made for you!
Great choices on the wood. The top is absolutely beautiful. I've never seen a top like that before you were right to get it.. is sounds fantastic through my phone I imagine how great it sounds in person.. and plus you know you've arrived when you have Martin company making you a specific personalized guitar.. I look forward to seeing many videos with you playing this guitar.. good for you Mary..
Congratulations on your new guitar. That top is gorgeous and the slotted headstock is the icing on the cake! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness with that stunning new guitar!
Congrats on your new build, it's lovely. I have a 000-42 , 12 fret slot head on order. Torrefied high altitude Swiss Spruce top, Honduran rosewood, 1/4" bracing. Can't wait. Thanks for sharing. I had never seen you before. Good luck.
Definitely a beautiful instrument. The OM body style is a wonderful choice for finger style players and the choice of Engelmann for the top was a great choice. I built two guitars as gifts for my sons, one of which has an Engelmann top and Koa back and sides. You'll enjoy that guitar for the rest of your life. Next time you visit Martin or Gruhn's in Nashville you should try a 0000 model...same basic size as an OM but with the volume of a Dreadnaught.
Beautiful smooth sound. The inlay is awsome. Everything is amazing. A lot has gone into this guitar, including the bicycle. Love it, it sounds like a full orchestra complete with violins.
Red Violin ends all debates on the Varnish. Beautiful instrument. I love my LAG 30 for the same reasons. The biggest reasons I bought it was because of the lumber involved and the Graphite Nut and Bridge. The more energy and blood that you put into it the warmer it will sound. It has fantastic resonance and sustain.
Have a 0000 28 custom shop alpine spruce, thin satin finish awesome sounding and playing, you definitely have the right combo, i like the comment about OM 21 MS for the rest of us
Just saw this video. What a gorgeous guitar! I love the slotted headstock. I had a Martin with 12 frets clear of the body, and have only ever seen the slotted stock that way. Brilliant to put one on a 14 fret guitar!
Congrats on the new addition! What a wonderful guitar for a wonderful musician. You both suit each other so well. And of course I'd love one...although I'd have to play it first!!!
Well, being a finger style person myself - I'd say that ANY OM Martin is a joy- your custom guitar being no exception! Kudos on both the new guitar, and your style - which is great!
Wow, Mary! The OM has always been my fave, beautiful projection right in the vocal range, and the perfect depth to get up close and personal for a finger player. Congrats on your new BFF! It’s a lifetime instrument.
Beautiful guitar! Let us know when Martin decides to make this available as a limited edition! I went through the same process 13 years ago and based my own custom Martin off of the OM30 Pat Donahue model. Mine is a deep body OM, and uses landscaped Madagascar for back and sides along with an engelmann spruce top, and my own personal appointments. One of a kind, and I couldn't be happier. I trust you will enjoy many years of happiness and success with yours! As a new subscriber to your channel, I will follow along!
I have a bear claw spruce top guitar myself and after about 21 years of playing it, that guitar is still my main instrument. Yours is absolutely beautiful.
That's one of the most tastefully stunning guitars I've seen. And it sounds like a dream. I'm a Martin man, as I have 3 custom shop guitars. Congratulations and welcome to the family!
I bought myself a 000-18 17 years ago. I’ve played it literally almost every day since then, except for about one week a year ago when I had to send it out for a fret job. That is truly a spectacular instrument Mary, you are indeed a lucky lady.
That is STUNNING! I do love my D28, but one year I happened to pull down an OM-16 at GC. Played it (for what I realized was about an hour and a half) and put it back thinking I'd come back another day. The ride home was about 25 minutes and by the time I got there I just turned around to shoot back there. It was gone. lol. Story of my life, but I've been focused on the OM ever since. I wish you good luck and MANY hours of beautiful pleasure with that ax. Yes, I know we all want one. Some just don't realize it yet. Congrats on the signature.;-)
Another thing, I have 2 dear friends that have custom Martin's and have held them, although not being a musician, it is very clear that the quality is superior compared to any other guitar I've held or heard 1st hand. Alright then, back to the music. Thank you for sharing your gift with us
That is the coolest Bear Claw Spruce top I've seen! The Guatemalan Rosewood looks amazing. Great sounding guitar. You picked really nice woods. Bear Claw is great for finger style . Very good responsiveness and bright tones.
It sounds fabulous, with very full bass and mids, even for a RW OM Martin, without losing any balance or clarity. And the highs are very sparkly, but very sweet at the same time. It's a wonderful example of Martin's best.
I've been silently following you for a while now, appreciating all your content. But this time, as a fellow guitarist, I've gotta say... WELL DONE!!!! I plugged in my Sennheiser HD280s cans to listen to your playing "properly", and... WOW, does this work of art sing!!! I also have a matte finish with my dreadnought and... agree! It does work better for performance and camera work. (Personally, I think it's to my advantage that my listeners be able to see after my shows😆) I only wish I were in the UK to catch you live. Once again Mary... WELL DONE!!! Congratulations for taking this step!
I have also seen it suggested that a less laquered satin finish lets the top move and work more, thus giving it a bit bigger voice for its size. I do not know for certain if that is true, but it sounds logical.
Wow! That is a beautiful instrument. My hat is definitely off to Martin for their dedication to superior craftsmanship. That guitar design is absolutely gorgeous and it sounds amazing to my ears. Congratulations to you, Mary and to C.W. Martin for their dedication to building superb instruments.👍👍🇨🇦
haven't seen your video in a while. Such joy to see your playing got so much better. I love when content creators still pursue to be better after having made it
Absolutely gorgeous guitar. I love the Bear Claw spruce. A few months ago, I purchased 000-14 Martin custom "30" style with sitka/cocobolo. I absolutely love. However, if Martin did limited run of your guitar, I would definitely consider buying as I really like the slotted headstock and overall look of your guitar. The bling you have is very tasteful and guitar/YOU sound amazing playing.
Gorgeous instrument and congrats! I submitted my order for a custom BilT Relevator LS in March. It's my first custom instrument with everything I've ever wanted in a guitar down to the pots under knobs. Having an instrument made specifically for you is nothing short of a dream come true.
Since I have been finishing Wood Products all my life I will say for a instrument practically no finish except for a satin sealer uniformly sprayed... definitely sounds richer.
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🎬 MORE *VIDEOS ABOUT MARTIN*
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sounds amazing! and visually stunning
Congratulations Mary
I'm going to be in London later this year ... but in July, not September or October. Does anyone know if @MarySpender is performing anywhere then?
The OM 42 is been my dream guitar since I played a friends.
Very nice ma’am 👍
Yes. you're right. I would love to have an OM guitar.
What a gorgeous Martin. I work there and saw it go through the custom shop. Unfortunately, I didn't get to meet you but just thankful for your support of C.F. Martin. I'm sure you'll play the hell outta that acoustic! Cheers!
I know this is an OM but does anyone know how many OOO-42 makes a year?
mr taylor gave his company to his workers in 2019 a 15m a month company .,,bet you wish you worked for them
@@minstrelofMir Not really. That would mean having to live in the a-hole of Cali and I'm just not into living in a 3x cost of living state
@@damianwalck9068 well said !
In addition to all the (well deserved) kudos to Mary for designing and sharing this guitar, let us tip our hat(s) to Martin for agreeing to work with Mary in crafting this beautiful instrument. Wishing Mary many years of joy making music!
I love how the slotted heastock effects the tone. It slightly mellows it out , like an old school parlour, but the longer scale length compensates.
It’s a beautiful instrument, Mary. You had the chance to make it your own before you first played it, and there’s just no way to understate how important the relationship between a performer and their instrument really is. I look forward to hearing more of the music you make together.
I love my OOO-16 from 1993. I also loved the Martin factory tour. I like the look of the unfinished wood inside but I like the smell even better. I think that's why they call it rosewood.
You are a lucky woman to have that Martin. But then you worked hard for it and are so deserving. Congratulations.
No one has ever held a guitar like this one. It's an exquisitely crafted instrument. Enjoy, and use it well.
Just purchased a Martin 0012-28 Modern Deluxe. Everything I ever wanted since I held my first guitar in 1966.
Just a Few Short Days Ago. 🙂
Same… one year ago. I cycle through 6 guitars and pulled it out again yesterday. It’s sitting next to my D15 in my office because I like variety while I procrastinate 😂
A match made in heaven. I cannot think of a more worthy owner for this beautiful guitar.
What an experience. I got to tour the factory in around 1984. Played a D-35 and was hooked, but took me about 30 years to be able to afford one. Priceless experience you must have had customizing this instrument. Looks and sounds wonderful. You play so beautifully. Singing is so nice. My words don't really express it adequately. Congratulations. Great story, love it. Keep up the great work.
The relationship with the people who build the instrument is such a privilege. Almost all of the objects we use are mass produced now but the process of working with a luthier is much like it must have been many generations ago. I've had a chance to do it with two different builders and I'm grateful for it.
Martin company told me that ny money would not purchase a custom shop guitar of my choosing. That i had to go through one of their dealers. That i could not buy it direct,or have it made with out going through a martin dealership. I just wonder did clapton,john mayer, all the great successful guitarst go through a dealership. No i dont think so. So i will spend my money with a different custom luthier. I have a 00 28 modern delux that just dosent perform the way it should. It never holds adequate tune to pitch,always 2 or 3 points flat or sharp. The break angle at the saddle almost flat lines . I think some one did a bad set up in the factory,or at sweetwater where i purchased it . A guitar at that price level if properly taken care of should be dependable and hold tune,and be a joy to play instead of a grueling ordeal to go on stage with.
Wow, really something to have your own signature model from the best of the best. Well deserved. It’s already a part of you! 8:27
A beautiful instrument that really suits you. Your fingerstyle playing gets the best sound from it.
If someone wants this guitar, it’s a pretty safe assumption that they have a lot of spare cash to blow. Mary deserves the guitar. She plays great.
Gosh, Mary, I got emotional watching this. That guitar is so you. May you go on making incredible music for years to come! Much love, and God's blessings to you! ❤
Congratulations Mary. It’s a beautiful Martin. Wishing you both many years of happiness together.
Mary, to say that guitar is stunning is a far cry short of it's glorious look, sound and aesthetic. You are worthy and deserving of such an amazing instrument. Love you, love your music. I'd never imagine to be able to do full justice to that guitar as I am a heavy strummer only worthy of making such noise on big ole dreadnoughts. Good for you Mary. I am so very happy for you. I look forward to all the music you create with that and all you other instruments(including your sultry voice.)
I think anyone would like to own such a model, and this could be something new for Martin too. It's a guitar masterpiece.
Mary, am envious as usual, and will always be. Gracious me! Godspeed on your journeys.
The elements of this guitar blow my mind. So well thought out. And yes, I love
how you thought about the lighting when picking the finish. You're such a TH-camr!
All your hard work is paying off. You definitely deserve this moment. Congratulations on everything. Keep up the great work...
Signature smignature.. that matching bicycle inlay is the real personal mark. What a beautiful detail 😍
Beautiful instrument, beautiful sound, beautiful playing. Congrats on your new ax, Mary!
FINALLY! I was wondering, when you would share the story of this guitar ever since I saw you play it for the first time. 😊
I would be honored to have a “Mary Spender” Martin guitar!!😊
Gosh, what a beautiful guitar! You deserve it!
Just by listening to you speak, it is so obvious how proud and blessed you are to have such an incredible instrument designed and crafted for you. You have an incredible talent and the guitar has beautiful, warm and rich tones that truly compliment your amazing voice. Congratulation.
Working with a luthier/friend to put your idea into a true piece of art is an amazing experience. I did it between ‘94-‘96 with Michael Lewis, Grass Valley, California. We (I say we killed a bear, but Michael shot it) based it on a 1938 000-42, like Clapton’s in Unpluged. We used Brazilian and Engleman spruce. With a little bear claw, and 000-42 inlay patterns. It was shown at Heildsburg in ‘96, before I had even had the chance to play it since it was finished. I performed with it in honkytonks and dives for 15 years. It’s been back and forth coast to coast a few times and to the Redneck Riviera at least 3 or 4 times a year. It’s been through 2 fires, one at my house and one at Micheal’s shop.
I was admiring it soon after it was finished and noticed a very thin metal outline of some of the inlay, and I asked Michael exact what kind of metal this was, so fine and shiny around the orchid? He said, “beer can”
Oh my - when a guitar is an extension of the musician - in your case it would have to be a beautiful, stunning, impressive and unique instrument. This is incredible. Martin has delivered.
Thanks!
I love Martin's OM and auditorium guitars. They have such beautiful nuance to their sound that dreadnoughts rarely do.
I'm also a fan of Martin's satin finish. Aside from the hypothetical that it may let the wood breathe more, what I really like is that the top isn't fully sealed from your arm/hand oils and the guitar eventually shows just how loved it has been.
That is an incredible guitar. Love the ribbing on the neck. Sounds amazing.
That is one of the best sounding Martins I have ever heard. Tastefully appointed, not over done. It will sound even better year after year. The aging toner brings out the beautiful grain. So cool that you were able to pick out the wood. New Martins smell great. I like your Spire song as well, it sounds wonderful on that guitar! Play on!
What a rich and luxurioius tone! Love the bass presence and sustain. Congrats on getting this guitar and sharing it with us.
Congratulations on your Beautiful new guitar! It looks and sounds amazing!
Gorgeous guitar, lovely playing. As a cyclist I love the bicycle inlay!
It's a beauty!! Love the headstock.I've owned Martin Guitars since 1970, my first being a D-18-S, also with the slotted headstock.
Beautiful instrument. Though unable play a guitar (though a childhood flautist and tuba player, my fingers never could never get the finger movements right), I loved going on a factory tour at C.F. Martin as part of a work teambuilding trip in 2018. Watching the builders practicing their craft was amazing. So was meeting Chris in the museum after our tour and hearing those who knew how to play making wonderful music in the demo room.
I grew up going to the park for family reunions just blocks away from the factory never knowing it was there until well into my 30s (which was many, many years ago).
Martin is a treasure. I hope you’ll pay the Lehigh’s Valley a visit again to perform (cough, cough, Musikfest).
Stunning instrument! Congratulations Mary! Looking forward to hearing much new music in the future! Be well. Cheers!
I purchased my first Martin 000-18 in 1963 and it was such great guitar. I can't imagine what this lovely guitar must be like to play. I went on to own a '47 Dreadnaught and a Guild rosewood 12 string later but nothing ever played as well and sounded as good at the small body 000-18.
Mary! Congratulations on your new Martin. Absolutely stunning! Play it with Love! Thank you for all you do for the guitar community with your videos and for the world with your wonderful music! I love your perspectives, stylings, and generosity towards your art. I’m so grateful that I tumbled into your world! Keep on Rocking in the Free World…✌️❤️🌞
Congrats in the new guitar! It's pretty! Love how they binded it and inlayed around the neck and body! Now the fun starts! Every guitar has its own voice. You get to find it and help it sing! They are all different and its always exciting to explore a new one! Did ya name it yet?
Wonderful. I had a custom guitar built (a personalised D-42) at Martin in 2006 and went to Pennsylvania to pick it up at the factory together with my late younger brother. A wonderful experience, with wonderful memories, and I treasure that guitar. I hope this one will also give you all those types of wonderful memories Mary. I love the OM body shape, and very interesting to see you chose the slotted headstock.
Dear Mary.....what a spectacularly beautiful guitar...with a lovely choice of historic and personal attributes.(Love the bear claw) Martin have always been the beacon to which all the other builders have aspired. I'm making an OM at the moment and it's sooooo difficult.....I've never owned a Martin (yet) as I was ambushed and found a Collings by accident which fits me just right, but ...one day ... I'll have a Marin OM too..... Thanks for all your great TH-cams.... you're great......xx
You have impeccable taste.
It is to your credit that Martin took on this project with you.
You have been recognized for your contribution to music and I am happy for you.
Wishing you many years of discovery and inspiration together.
Congrats.
Wow!!! Beautiful guitar. Love the top and satin finish. The bicycle is a great personal link. Congrats Mary.
Agree totally with your satin finish choice. I like its look and sound better, and it's way easier to take good pictures of, in the event you wind up selling it. Great choices for the inlay.
A Martin with a slotted headstock and 14 frets: YAY! And it sounds seriously great, although much of that is the player.
Also, the bling comes off way more tastefull than the usual "42" and "45" models: the fingerboard and bridge inlays are perfect and keep the whole effect tasteful.
How about twisting Martin's arms to make an OM-21 with that headstock and an engleman top? It could be a Mary Spender Model for the rest of us, yet not impinge on the unique space of that instrument. PLEASE!!!!
Yes please!!! That would be my dream guitar. It’s a shame we’re only left with the OMJM and it’s 1-11/16” nut width. A 1-3/4” and Englemann top would be amazing. Throw in a slotted headstock and I’d buy a backup lol.
I’ve actually been to the Martin Guitar co. Back in the late 60’s they were using Ebony, mahogany, rosewood, etc. The scraps were in the dumpster, yes I went dumpster diving 😊. I still have some of the scrap ivory the threw away. Mary your guitar is wonderful but in your hands it’s heavenly..
You earned that guitar, and it’s so beautiful to see it find you.
I recently purchased a used OM13 authentic 1933 on Reverb, it was not VTS, but was made in 2012 so the Addie top and braces are 12yrs old. I was a dreadnought guy but bam I love this OM! Loved you presentation.
A custom made unique instrument is always a dream come true. And have Martin made such an instrument is priceless.
Very nice. ❤
I've had a Martin for over a decade now and its the only acoustic I'll ever need. And even though its not an expensive model, or an OM, theres something about them and the way they play and the way they record. They're superb instruments. Each to their own I guess, but I'm sticking with mine, its never ever let me down.
Stunning guitar in the hands of great player. Lovely. Nothing sounds like a Martin. I live a short distance from the factory and they are beautiful people. You are a lucky lady.
I have played a D size guitar for years and in my "old age" I am now playing a Martin M-36. A OOOO size. I absolutely love this guitar. You have designed an extraordinarily beautiful instrument. Best regards.
What a beautiful guitar. Sounds wonderful.
Mary, every aspect of that guitar is entirely unique, and amazing, exactly like you!
Love your music, your content, and truly enjoy watching your development as an artist and a person.
Much love, and thank you for giving us so much of yourself.
What a wonderful guitar you have. I know how you feel because I too am happy to have a custom built 00045 with my signature. There are many fine guitars in the world, but this particular model is a dream come true. Of course it's a pleasure to own one, but what warms the heart the most is playing on it.
That is a gorgeous instrument. Incredible stylistic choices with the slotted headstock, and bear claw top and the back wood too. Might be the single best looking OM guitar I've ever seen.
Congratulations. She's an absolute beauty and sounds divine!
My first real good guitar was a Martin D37 that I bought at my local music store back in Chicago. I saw while getting string for my electric and having always wanted a Martin bought on the spot. I love it. And good for you Mary, having your own speced out Martin made for you!
It's gorgeous! And, most importantly, it sounds great!!
Great choices on the wood. The top is absolutely beautiful. I've never seen a top like that before you were right to get it.. is sounds fantastic through my phone I imagine how great it sounds in person.. and plus you know you've arrived when you have Martin company making you a specific personalized guitar.. I look forward to seeing many videos with you playing this guitar.. good for you Mary..
One of the most beautiful guitars I have ever seen. You made fantastic choices.
Congratulations on your new guitar. That top is gorgeous and the slotted headstock is the icing on the cake! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness with that stunning new guitar!
Congrats on your new build, it's lovely. I have a 000-42 , 12 fret slot head on order. Torrefied high altitude Swiss Spruce top, Honduran rosewood, 1/4" bracing. Can't wait. Thanks for sharing. I had never seen you before. Good luck.
Definitely a beautiful instrument. The OM body style is a wonderful choice for finger style players and the choice of Engelmann for the top was a great choice. I built two guitars as gifts for my sons, one of which has an Engelmann top and Koa back and sides. You'll enjoy that guitar for the rest of your life. Next time you visit Martin or Gruhn's in Nashville you should try a 0000 model...same basic size as an OM but with the volume of a Dreadnaught.
There’s nothing like an axe that is a joy to play.
You’re an amazing talent - that’s one Lucky Guitar !
May you have many fulfilling years together.
Beautiful smooth sound. The inlay is awsome. Everything is amazing. A lot has gone into this guitar, including the bicycle. Love it, it sounds like a full orchestra complete with violins.
Red Violin ends all debates on the Varnish. Beautiful instrument. I love my LAG 30 for the same reasons. The biggest reasons I bought it was because of the lumber involved and the Graphite Nut and Bridge.
The more energy and blood that you put into it the warmer it will sound.
It has fantastic resonance and sustain.
Have a 0000 28 custom shop alpine spruce, thin satin finish awesome sounding and playing, you definitely have the right combo, i like the comment about OM 21 MS for the rest of us
Just saw this video. What a gorgeous guitar! I love the slotted headstock. I had a Martin with 12 frets clear of the body, and have only ever seen the slotted stock that way. Brilliant to put one on a 14 fret guitar!
Congrats on the new addition! What a wonderful guitar for a wonderful musician. You both suit each other so well. And of course I'd love one...although I'd have to play it first!!!
thats a beautiful guitar mary! i love martin, i think they slighlty edge out taylor as best steel string acoustic manufacturer
Well, being a finger style person myself - I'd say that ANY OM Martin is a joy- your custom guitar being no exception! Kudos on both the new guitar, and your style - which is great!
Wow, Mary! The OM has always been my fave, beautiful projection right in the vocal range, and the perfect depth to get up close and personal for a finger player. Congrats on your new BFF! It’s a lifetime instrument.
Damn. It really sounds great. Both for fingerpicking and strumming, it sings (projects) with a truly lovely voice.
Beautiful guitar! Let us know when Martin decides to make this available as a limited edition! I went through the same process 13 years ago and based my own custom Martin off of the OM30 Pat Donahue model. Mine is a deep body OM, and uses landscaped Madagascar for back and sides along with an engelmann spruce top, and my own personal appointments. One of a kind, and I couldn't be happier. I trust you will enjoy many years of happiness and success with yours! As a new subscriber to your channel, I will follow along!
I love the bass. Sounds very full, but not muddy. Great balance between the strings! Beautiful!
I have a bear claw spruce top guitar myself and after about 21 years of playing it, that guitar is still my main instrument. Yours is absolutely beautiful.
That's one of the most tastefully stunning guitars I've seen. And it sounds like a dream. I'm a Martin man, as I have 3 custom shop guitars. Congratulations and welcome to the family!
I bought myself a 000-18 17 years ago. I’ve played it literally almost every day since then, except for about one week a year ago when I had to send it out for a fret job. That is truly a spectacular instrument Mary, you are indeed a lucky lady.
That is STUNNING! I do love my D28, but one year I happened to pull down an OM-16 at GC. Played it (for what I realized was about an hour and a half) and put it back thinking I'd come back another day. The ride home was about 25 minutes and by the time I got there I just turned around to shoot back there. It was gone. lol. Story of my life, but I've been focused on the OM ever since. I wish you good luck and MANY hours of beautiful pleasure with that ax. Yes, I know we all want one. Some just don't realize it yet. Congrats on the signature.;-)
Congrats on your new guitar. I have an Eastman E08OM-TC and I love the OM size for playing. Love your videos.
Another thing, I have 2 dear friends that have custom Martin's and have held them, although not being a musician, it is very clear that the quality is superior compared to any other guitar I've held or heard 1st hand. Alright then, back to the music. Thank you for sharing your gift with us
That is the coolest Bear Claw Spruce top I've seen! The Guatemalan Rosewood looks amazing. Great sounding guitar. You picked really nice woods. Bear Claw is great for finger style . Very good responsiveness and bright tones.
Mary, you are an amazing person... You say such nice things about other people. A true ray of light!
It sounds fabulous, with very full bass and mids, even for a RW OM Martin, without losing any balance or clarity. And the highs are very sparkly, but very sweet at the same time. It's a wonderful example of Martin's best.
I've been silently following you for a while now, appreciating all your content. But this time, as a fellow guitarist, I've gotta say...
WELL DONE!!!!
I plugged in my Sennheiser HD280s cans to listen to your playing "properly", and... WOW, does this work of art sing!!!
I also have a matte finish with my dreadnought and... agree! It does work better for performance and camera work.
(Personally, I think it's to my advantage that my listeners be able to see after my shows😆)
I only wish I were in the UK to catch you live.
Once again Mary... WELL DONE!!! Congratulations for taking this step!
Congratulations, what a honor to have a personalized Martin
AN honour
I have also seen it suggested that a less laquered satin finish lets the top move and work more, thus giving it a bit bigger voice for its size. I do not know for certain if that is true, but it sounds logical.
Wow! That is a beautiful instrument. My hat is definitely off to Martin for their dedication to superior craftsmanship. That guitar design is absolutely gorgeous and it sounds amazing to my ears. Congratulations to you, Mary and to C.W. Martin for their dedication to building superb instruments.👍👍🇨🇦
haven't seen your video in a while. Such joy to see your playing got so much better. I love when content creators still pursue to be better after having made it
Congrats on your beautiful new guitar! Guitars are like our children, all have different personalities and we love them all with our whole hearts. ❤
Mary! Mary! What a gorgeous guitar you have created. The sound is already magical and the guitar is clearly happy to be in your hands. I loved it all!
Mary Spender and CF Martin. 2 great things that happened to acoustic guitar history
Absolutely gorgeous guitar. I love the Bear Claw spruce. A few months ago, I purchased 000-14 Martin custom "30" style with sitka/cocobolo. I absolutely love. However, if Martin did limited run of your guitar, I would definitely consider buying as I really like the slotted headstock and overall look of your guitar. The bling you have is very tasteful and guitar/YOU sound amazing playing.
This is beautiful. Your fingerpicking is better in this than I’ve seen. Wonderful!
You deserve every bit of it all. Thank you!!
Gorgeous instrument and congrats! I submitted my order for a custom BilT Relevator LS in March. It's my first custom instrument with everything I've ever wanted in a guitar down to the pots under knobs. Having an instrument made specifically for you is nothing short of a dream come true.
Since I have been finishing Wood Products all my life I will say for a instrument practically no finish except for a satin sealer uniformly sprayed... definitely sounds richer.