Zucali

Opinions

Many guitarists and friends have known me and my instruments personally for many years. Some of them have also written a few words about these encounters.

Here you can read comments and opinions of various musicians and friends.

Ohne Musik wäre das Leben ein Irrtum.

Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche (1844 - 1900)

Zucali's guitars are full of sound and sport a wide range of exquisite tone colours, it is a pleasure to play such versatile instruments.

Stephanie Jones

Stephanie Jones is an “Internet acquaintance” so to speak. I have always been amazed by her Youtube videos and finally, this year (2017) in May, I was finally able to get to know her personally. When I met her, I really felt, saw and heard her passion for guitar playing. How she became a unit with one of my guitars; this was just great!

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Stephanie’s passion for music commenced at a very early age. She played many instruments, beginning first with the piano, and then progressing to the violin, viola, saxophone and flute. However, it was the guitar with its captivating range of sounds and great versatility that especially appealed to her, and it quickly became her first love.

Stephanie is currently in Germany doing a Masters in Classical Guitar Performance with Thomas Müller-Pering at the prestigious University of Music Franz Liszt.

To find out more about Stephanie Jones visit her website www.stephaniejonesguitar.com.

When I plugged this crossover model in, I was amazed to hear a wonderful nylon string sound. And when I saw the "rust finish" it reminded me of an elegant and artistic part of New York City called "Soho" known for it's iron gates, art galleries and fashion boutiques. I already feel a new musical inspiration and a creative journey as a result of playing this one of a kind Zucali guitar.
Thank you Daniel!

Adam Rafferty

Adam Rafferty is known for his groove, his highly concentrated enthusiasm when making music and of course all this with a smile on his face. A man and his guitar ...

Born and raised in Harlem-New York, Adam began playing guitar at the age of 6 with the now sadly deceased Woody Mann. By 12, he was playing hard rock and by 15, he was being bilked out of the fee for his first gig. As an 18-year-old rapper, he lands on a gold record with his band "Edelweiss". He's seen it all ... from classical to jazz to rap ... from playing music in Manhattan subway stations to the most prestigious jazz clubs and concert halls where he often got to play with world-renowned musicians.

In 2006, Tommy Emmanuel inspired him so much that he immersed himself in the world of fingerstyle guitar, with which Adam eventually made a name for himself all over the world. Over 20 million views of his YouTube channel show his ever-growing popularity. Adam has been living near me for a few years now, which has slowly but surely created a friendship ... It's always a pleasure to enjoy time with Adam!

You can find out more about Adam Rafferty at www.adamrafferty.com, and about his online school at https://studywithadam.com.

„Die Zucali Crossover eignet sich für meine elektro-akustischen Performances unvergleichlich gut, denn solch eine naturgetreue Wiedergabe des akustischen Klangs über Pickup-System habe ich bisher nur sehr selten erlebt. Dieses Instrument scheint störende Rückkopplungen nicht zu kennen und gibt Alles und Mehr bei der Übertragung der perkussiven Klänge.
Daniel Zucali hat sich über die verstärkte „Nylon-String“-Gitarre nicht nur Gedanken gemacht - er hat sie stark gemacht!“

Michael Koschorreck

Kosho

Translation of quote:

“The Zucali Crossover is an incomparably fine instrument for my electro-acoustic performances, I have only rarely heard such a faithful reproduction of my natural sound through a pickup system. This instrument doesn't seem to have any disturbing feedback issues, and goes above-and-beyond expectations in the delivery of percussive effects. Daniel Zucali has done much more than just amplify a nylon-string guitar - he has managed to generally strengthen the instrument.”

Michael Koschorreck, better known by his stage-name "Kosho", manages to skillfully combine diverse musical genres, always impressing audiences with his unique style.

His decades of stage and studio-experience with world-famous musicians and bands like, amongst others, André Heller, Nena, Xavier Naidoo, Les McCann, the Söhne Mannheims, as well as in duo with Augustin Wiedemann and, since 2017, Katja Ohde, have seen him ripen into a highly expressive musician.

Kosho shares his wisdom and expertise through teaching, at the Popakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg, the Vorarlberger State Conservatorium, the Trossingen National Academy, and in workshops, nationally and internationally. There are currently over 150 CDs and film soundtracks on which the Mannheim-based guitarist is featured. His own personal style is particularly evident on his three solo albums, "All Sides Love", Tinggal" and "Snapshot Music Box".

To find out more about Michael Koschorreck visit his website www.kosho.de.

彼の透明感あふれるギターの音色は、私が追い求める響きへの答えをもたらしてくれる素晴らしい香りを持っている。
彼のところを訪ね、彼が自身のギターから響かせる音色に対して抱く想いに魅了され、彼の集中、殊勝な努力、そして創作的なアイデアの数々を見聞きしたことは、深く私の印象に残っている。

Kanahi Yamashita

Translation of the quote:

“The varying transparency of his guitars develop the sound I yearn for. I visited Daniel Zucali and discussed the results he is trying to achieve with his guitars. I was highly impressed with his concentration and see the honourable effort and creative ideas.”

I had the pleasure to meet the entire Yamashita family in Hungary during a concert, which they played as the "Kazuhito Yamashita Family Quintet". When they tried out my instruments, I experienced the fine musical sense that connects the family members.

Kanahi Yamashita was born 1997 in Nagasaki (Japan). Early on she already started to lean playing the guitar from her father Kazuhito Yamashita and her Mother Keiko Fuiie. Since her 2010 debut in Italy (9th Symphony of the New World) she is giving solo concerts and is also part of the "Kazuhito Yamashita Family Quintet". In 2015, she played together with her father and the "Estonian National Symphony Orchestra" the "Concert for Two Guitars" by Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco conducted by Alexander Prior. Kanahi currently resides in Berlin where she studies singing, improvisation, composition and guitar.

To find out more about Kanahi Yamashita visit her facebook page www.facebook.com.

É un piacere suonare le chitarre Zucali, precisi strumenti dotati di ottimo volume, cantabilità, colori ed estrema comodità. Sono il risultato di una meticolosa costruzione, sempre perseguendo l'obiettivo della purezza e bellezza del suono.

Andrea De Vitis

Translation of the quote:

“It is always a pleasure to play a Zucali, they are very precise instruments with great volume, cantability , a lot of different colours and extremely easy playability. The aim of this meticulous guitar-constructing is always the purity and beauty of the sound.”

Andrea and I have met again and again at several festivals. With each time we meet, we get to know each other better and better. Today I not only value him as a musician, but also as a pleasant and open-minded friend.

When playing the guitar he gives me a feeling of security. He plays even the most difficult sections of a music piece with ease and musicality. To hear him play is pure joy to me every time. At his concerts, the audience rewards him with standing ovations again and again.

After years of studying with Leonardo De Angelis, Paolo Pegoraro, Adriano Del Sal and attending several masterclasses taught by world-famous guitarists, he has, by now, won over 30 international competitions. As a recognition for his artistic achievements he received the „Golden Guitar Award“ in 2013 as the best young guitarist at the „Consorso Internazionale di Chitarra Classica Michele Pittaluga“.

Also his debut-album „Colloquie with Andrés Segovia“, which was released by Andrea in 2015, earned great popularity and very good reviews.

To find out more about Andrea De Vitis visit his website www.andreadevitis.com.

Daniel has to be one of the most creative luthiers I have met. He always dreams up great designs, and I always look forward to seeing what he has in store next!

Scott Tennant

Scott Tennant is one of the most recognised guitarists in the world and founding member of the L.A. Guitar Quartet. Furthermore, is he an excellent educator and author. On my numerous travels through the world of guitars, our paths crossed several times and I had the opportunity get know Scott Tennant personally.

This picture shows Scott Tennant is seen with the 7-string Santino guitar, witch was painted and refined by the artist Matthias Claudius Aigner.

To find out more about Scott Tennant visit his website www.scott-tennant.net.

Již delší dobu mám tu čest a radost , sledovat vývoj práce mého milého přítele Daniela. Daniel má velmi vzácnou uměleckou vizi a cit pro tvar a zvuk kytary. Nepřestává mne překvapovat svojim našením i samotnými nástroji. Pokladám Daniela za jednoho z nejoriginálnějších kytarářů naší současnosti.

Pavel Steidl

Translation of the quote:

“For a long time I have had the honour of seeing how the work of my dear friend Daniel has developed. He has a very fine artistic vision for the design and sound of his guitars. I consider him to be one of the most original luthiers of his time; he continually surprises me with his enthusiasm and his guitars.”

I really like Pavel Steidl for he is always smiling as he travels the world. Our conversations are to the point, with well-chosen words and his wonderful sense of humour, ever so present and reflected in his music and virtuoso concert performances. It’s nice that our paths cross often.

1982 Pavel Steidl won first prize in the "Radio France International Competition" in Paris and became the most celebrated guitarists of his generation. Over the years he evolved into one of the most important performers of music of the 19th century.

In addition to his wonderful solo concerts, where he is also playing his own compositions, he is part of the world-famous European Guitar Quartet.

To find out more about Pavel Steidl visit his website www.pavelsteidl.com.

Daniel Zucali´s Gitarren haben mich aus vielen Gründen verzaubert, doch der wohl wichtigste ist der Klangfarbenreichtum. Stimmtrennung passiert wie von selbst.

Simon Riedlecker

Translation of quote:

“The guitars by Daniel Zucali have enchanted me for various reasons. Most importantly the rich and colourful tones. Separation of different tunes happens nearly on its own.”

I have known Simon since the opening of my workshop in 2008. He was just beginning his studies of the guitar. I am honoured to call this admirable musician my friend. I was able to witness how Simon developed from a young guitar student to a virtuoso guitarist crossing musical borders. His will and commitment to live for his calling always amazes me.

The background photograph shows Simon with his first Zucali guitar. To watch the video of him playing “Streets of Philadelphia” click here.

He currently plays on a guitar Model Aline made of Appletree, Spruce, lattice-bracing and a monitor sound hole in the side. This guitar can be heard in three wonderfull recordings named "Wirbelwind", "Resurrection" and "Swedish Folksong”.

To find out more about Simon Riedlecker visit his website www.simonriedlecker.com.

Daniel Zucali · Simon Riedlecker

… Daniels Gitarren zeugen von großem Fachwissen, klingen klar und differenziert, mit der nötigen Wärme in den Mitten und Bässen und spiegeln ständig Grenzüberschreitungen wieder.

Joachim Csaikl

Translation of quote:

“The guitars by Daniel Zucali have enchanted me for various reasons. Most importantly the rich and colourful tones. Separation of different tunes happens nearly on its own.”

Since 2005 Joachim has workied intensively on the playing of the contra guitar, its use in different styles and the associated technical challenges.

Due to this work, our paths have crossed and a fruitful cooperation has developed. When planning the contra guitar Santone 54-17 created in 2017, Joachim incorporated all his expertise into the design of the instrument, for it to also meets the modern requirements of a guitarist.

To find out more about Joachim Csaikl visit his website www.joachim-csaikl.com.

Conocer a Daniel Zucali y sus guitarras fue realmente inspirador. Sus instrumentos son el excelente resultado de una experiencia notable!

Julio Azcano

Translation of quote:

“Meeting and getting to know Daniel Zucali was truly inspiring. The results of his remarkable experience are truly excellent instruments.”

Only in 2015 I had the opportunity to see the Eos Guitar Quartet live. What I listened to was absolutely convincing and beautiful. Hence it was time to meet the individual members personally. Julio had only recently become a member of the quartet.

As a soloist and keeping up border crossing dialogue with musicians of different cultures he shared the stage with such luminaries as Dino Saluzzi, Leo Brouwer and Carmen Linares.

His concert career has been enriched by duos with the Latin Grammy award-winning Quique Sinesi, the violinist Volker Biesenbender, the Tango double bassist Juan Pablo Navarro, the sax player Javier Girotto and jazz guitarist Sid Jacobs.

This picture shows Julio Azcano is seen with the 7-string Santino guitar, witch was painted and refined by the artist Matthias Claudius Aigner.

To find out more about Julio Azcano visit his website www.julioazcano.com .

Daniel Zucalis Gitarren sind handwerklich auf allerhöchstem Niveau gefertigt. Die beiden lattice bracing Gitarren der Modellreihe Aline erinnern mich von ihrer Ausgeglichenheit her an einen Steinway Flügel. Über das gesamte Griffbrett ist das Sustain ausgeglichen, kein Ton klingt lauter als der Andere. Jeder Akkord ist glasklar hörbar und trotzdem empfinde ich die Gitarren als “seidig” in ihrer Klangfarbe. Es sind genau diese Eigenschaften die ich mir als Gitarrist wünsche.

Michael Winkler

Translation of the quote:

“Daniel Zucali’s guitars are built to the very highest standards. The tone-balance and response of both latticed braced guitars from the “Aline Series” are reminiscent of Steinway Concert grand pianos. Sustaining power over the entire range of the instrument is also perfectly consistent, no note sounds any louder than any other. In spite of the absolutely crystal clear quality of every chord, the sound characteristic of these guitars comes across as silk-like in texture and colour. As a guitarist, these are precisely the qualities that I look for.”

Michael Winkler is a member of the Eos Guitar Quartet, which I first heard live in 2015. The concert was richly contrasted, totally convincing and wonderful to hear. Not only that, I also had the privilege of getting to know the quartet members as individuals.

Michael is a virtuoso who crosses all the borders defining the worlds of Classical, Jazz and World music. He has a passion for Bach as his CD “Michael Winkler plays J.S. Bach” indisputably proves. Alongside his engagements with the Eos Guitar Quartet, Michael gives concerts not only as a soloist but also with, amongst others, with the singer Andreas Winkler, with whom he plays Scottish and Ballads, Celtic music and Whisky Songs. The steel string guitar is part and parcel of his musical life as he accompanies a variety of pop singers playing this very guitar. He teaches guitar in Zurich and at the Conservatory in Wintethur.

To find out more about Michael Winkler visit his website www.michael-winkler.ch.

Para nosotros fué una gran sorpresa conocer al luthier Daniel Zucali. Experimentamos vários de sus modelos de construcción y podemos afirmar que en todos ellos alcanza un nivel máximo de calidad. Su perfeccionismo y pasión lo llevan a innovar constantemente, obteniendo resultados sorprendentes y únicos desde la parte estética hasta la calidad sonora. Una fantástica experiencia tocar en sus guitarras!

Duo Siqueira Lima

Translation of the quote:

“It was a great surprise for us to meet the luthier Daniel Zucali. We tried out a few of his models and can only emphasize that all his instruments are absolutely upper class. His perfectionism and passion enable him to continuously come up with new innovations. The results are amazing, both in the aesthetic sense and regarding sound. It was a fantastic experience to play his guitars.”

The Duo Siqueira Lima consists of Cecilia Siqueira (born in Uruguay) and Fernando de Lima (born in Minas Gerais, Brasil). Together they form a unit rarely seen in a duo. Their Latin-American rhythms combined with ease and joy make it nearly impossible to remain seating during a performance.

The picture in the background shows Cecilia with a Santino Terz and Fernando with a Terz Classic guitar of mine.

To find out more about Cecilia Siqueira and Fernando de Lima visit their website www.siqueialima.com.

Daniel Zucali's guitars are beautiful instruments, combining fine craftsmanship with attention to detail and innovative design. He is equally at home with historically inspired instruments, as with modern concert guitars. I cannot recommend his instruments enough!

Harold Gretton

I met Harold in Mikulov during the 2011 guitar festival and remained continuously in contact. As a native Australian, Harold gained international fame by winning numerous competitions. His solo performances are already amazing and he also plays wonderful concerts in his Duo Amythis and with his wife Veronique van Duurling.

To find out more about Harold Gretton visit his website www.haroldgretton.com.

Daniel Zucali ist für mich ein innovativer grenzüberschreitender Gitarrenbauer. Seine Instrumente verfügen über einen eigenen klanglichen und ästhetischen Ausdruck und sind sehr "körperlich" im besten Sinne. Sie verfügen über enorme Klangfarben und eine unglaubliche Dynamik - für mich sehr inspirierend ...

Claus Boesser Ferrari

Translation of the quote:

“To me, Daniel Zucali is a innovative and border-crossing luthier. His instruments resonate a distinct and a esthetic sound with a full body. Very inspiring to me they have unbelievable tone variation and dynamic.”

Even though Claus Boesser-Ferrari is known for his performances on a steel string guitar, our paths cross quite frequently. He’s quite comfortable on a classical guitar as well and every time we meet he takes one of my instruments to tell a musical story of his.

This picture shows Claus Boesser-Ferrari with the guitar model Aline.

To find out more about Claus Boesser-Ferrari visit his website www.boesser-ferrari.de.

Las guitarras de Daniel Zucali producen un sonido con profundidad y significado, tienen un volumen ideal para cualquier sala de conciertos.

Cecilio Perera

Translation of the quote:

“Daniel Zucali’s guitars develop a sound with depth, sonority and volume to fill any concert hall.”

Cecilio is one of the most famous guitarists in Mexico and winner of numerous competitions. Being a local resident he is now offering his knowledge and wisdom as a pedagogue to Austrian students.

To find out more about Cecilio Perera visit his website www.cecilioperera.com.

La guitare bariton de Daniel Zucali est un des plus incroyables instruments que j'ai jamais joués. Elle ne sonne comme aucune autre et le premier contact est comme si vous l'aviez toujours eu dans les mains. L'intonation est parfaite, et elle vous fait sonner comme un bassiste jouant du luth médiéval dans un ensemble de guitares contemporaines. Un bon instrument donne le meilleur qu'il a, celui-ci vous fera donner le meilleur de vous ...

Bob Bonastre

Translation of the quote:

“The baritone guitar of Daniel Zucali is one of the most incredible instruments I have ever played. Her sound is incomparable. My first feeling was as if I had always had it in my arms. The tone is perfect and it makes you sound as if you were playing a medieval lute in a contemporary jazz ensemble! A fine instrument that offers the best it has. This guitar makes you give your best.”

Bob Bonastre was born in Senegal (Africa). At the age of 15, he fell for the guitar as his instrument and has been faithful to it ever since. I am delighted that Bob was invited in 2011 to the Guitar Festival Hersbruck. This gave us the opportunity to meet each other and make music throughout half of the night. I look forward to a reunion with him at the next possible opportunity …

The picture in the background shows can see Bob Bonastre with the guitar model Santino.

To find out more about Bob Bonastre visit his website www.bob-bonastre.com.

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