Mandolins

At Burgin Guitars, we are proud to craft finely tuned mandolins for musicians both locally and around the world. Many players come to us with a clear vision of their ideal instrument, and we specialize in bringing those visions to life. Our most popular model is the elegant teardrop Celtic style, known for its traditional beauty and resonant tone. We also offer unique mandolins inspired by the shape of small Maccaferri-style guitars, and on occasion, we’ve been commissioned to build custom ten-string mandolins for discerning players seeking expanded versatility.

Rooted in centuries of musical tradition, mandolins trace their origins back to the 17th-century Italian mandolino, which evolved from earlier lute-like instruments. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, mandolins gained widespread popularity in classical and folk music across Europe and America, eventually becoming staples in bluegrass and Celtic traditions. Their bright, percussive sound and rapid note articulation made them favorites for melody-driven performances.

Our mandolins are thoughtfully designed with flat tops and carefully curved bracing that forms a 15-foot arch in both the top and back. This subtle arching enhances the instrument's structural tension, adding a powerful, punchy tone that cuts through any ensemble. We construct each mandolin using premium tonewoods such as spruce, mahogany, blackwood, rosewood, and maple, chosen for their rich tonal characteristics and durability. Every instrument features a truss rod for neck stability and can be customized with either a flat or lightly radiused fingerboard, depending on the player’s preference.

All Burgin guitars come with a premium hard case, ensuring your instrument is well-protected for a lifetime of music-making.