The Birth of the American Guitar | Documentary

[@roygarrett1663]

My wifes parents live within miles of the Martin Factory and museum. I've been there many times. My wife worked with CF Martin IV wife in the police dept back in the 80's. Very nice video. I own several Martins and IV signed my 83 D-28. The museum is very interesting and extremely cool. I've seen the instruments you play. Awesome experience for anyone that plays guitar.

[@edsautter51]

Very enjoyable video Mary, bravo! I was a Martin employee in the mid 80. I worked at the north st building. My desk was in the same area as C.F. Martin had his. I worked with Dick Boak there. It was an enjoyment to see this documentary. The J40 model guitar was made in that plant. It was Dick Boak who, with my help assembled the first prototype guitar. I was surprised to see the guitar become a production guitar later on. We also had a customer who would come in buy tops and mahogany that he made into guitars. The guitar he was making was the backpacker. Martin has since bought the design up from him. But then he was making them in his garage in New Jersey. At the time the north st plant was a parts, wood supply house called Woodworkers Dream. Above us was part of their string winding and packing department and telemarking shipping dept. Above that was the attic. The attic was a wonderful place as it had archive paperwork in boxes there along with boxes of old uke, mandolin, guitar and electric guitar parts and many other odds and ends. I would love to go back there again and just walk the floors up there. The stories it would tell. I'm sorry you didn't touch on the other electric guitars martin made like the F65. They were fantastic for there time. Just never took off and I'm sorta glad as Martin may not be the way they are today. This was a well presented documentary and overview of Martin, thank you so much.

[@kalleblomkvist4173]

thank u for sharing this story!

[@cliffdavis5244]

Wow, your story really, adds to this video! Thank you very much

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

Great story!

[@dreamsR4real]

Thanks for sharing. Lovely.

[@jeffirish3402]

I have a J-18 which sounds amazing! There aren't many of these.

[@buaidhnobas1ify]

Around 17:30, you can see the joy in her face. I remember playing a Guild 12 string and having the same reaction. This is why I play guitar. Happy Happy, Joy Joy.

[@taperry326]

So how does it feel to play a $300,000 pre-war Martin? Seriously, I am so glad to see/hear you playing those precious guitars. It pains me to see such beauties locked away, kudos to Martin for allowing you to bring them out & letting them sing. Fantastic episode Mary!

[@Elvisml2]

I love that for martin, prewar means the Civil War.

[@Pudentame]

Guitars NEED to be played.

[@dcallan812]

yes its nice to hear them. Its like buy fancy cars and making them trailer queens dragged about to shows. Just use the thing.

[@rickjason215]

We have violins far older than the oldest Martins used all the time.

[@flouisbailey]

They get better the older they are if cared for.

[@JasonMcFly]

Got a little misty-eyed hearing the sound of that 1830’s Martin. Thank you for sharing the experience Mary

[@corneliuscrewe677]

The tone of that OM-45 is positively dreamy, and it really suits Mary’s style to a tee.

[@mazzysmusic]

Brilliant Mary. Everyone who loves music and guitars should watch this.

[@scottdavidson6066]

Thanks for making this, Mary! ❤

[@ildepozas489]

Thanks for the journey to the Martin history

[@novaseline4u]

Martin is a great place to visit. I used to live nearby, and have visited there several times. My next door neighbor there once told me a story involving the Martins. Next to Nazareth is a small town called Tatamy. One day my neighbor was driving through Tatamy, in an area where there was nothing, and came across a motorhome that had broken down. My neighbor stopped to see if the driver needed help. It turned out that it was occupied by a bunch of Martins, and they did indeed need help. Now this was before cell phones, so they had been unable to call out. Instead, at least some of them got a little inebrieted while they were waiting around. They ended up piling into my neighbor's Buick, and he took them home. They even offered him a new guitar for helping them, but he didn't accept, telling them truthfully that he didn't play. I think Chris was one of the people he picked up, but I'm not sure he was one of the ones drinking. He swore it was a true story, and he was not a BS artist. I had always meant to ask Chris if the story was true, but I never ran into him to ask, during my visits to the factory.

[@timtarrant933]

Not a musician but very interested in history Your film was captivating and I learnt about a subject that I knew nothing about. Absolutely great and so well narrated. I hope you make more like this.

[@vxe6vxe6]

Miss Mary sure looked like she was enjoying herself while playing those guitars. Love that look and smile.

[@Kendrix_76]

That's awesome. I played that same 1837 Stauffer style guitar you played in the video. A friend of mine that I used to work with went to school with a guy who was very high up in Martin. The two of us went there one day about 10 years ago and his friend gave us that same kind of tour, pulling guitars from behind the glass and letting us play them. Very cool experience. Martin is one of my favorite places in the world! Excellent video. EDIT: OOH.. He mentioned Joseph Kekuku, one of the inventors of the slide guitar method/sound. He died in 1932 in Morristown, NJ and was buried in the Orchard Street Cemetery in Dover, NJ. (I grew up in Dover from.. 3rd grade until 7th grade). That cemetery kind of got overgrown over the years and the location of his actual grave is unknown. However, some years back, the local Blues society got together and raised some money to put a would-be marker in his honor. They wound up putting an ornate bench in the cemetery with his info inscribed into it. A very cool piece of musical history. Mary, if you ever find yourself looking for it for another video, let me know. I'll gladly show you where it's at.

[@bniwa]

One of the best Martin docs I’ve seen. Your talents reach across and beyond the musical spectrum - Very professional, informative and entertaining of course. Bravo Mary!

[@ronkopald]

I agree. This is awesome

[@jarrodhendricks7237]

As someone who grew up in Nazareth, I think we often forget what a key part Martin played in music history. Thank you for letting me remember!

[@joeray_skrha]

Great job Mary... Bought my first D-35 in 1970.. Since then, the stable has grown to 21 Martins, including a D-45 Stephen Stills 20/91 and a Roy Rogers Braz. Continue to write on Martins and would be lost without them. Thank you to the gentlemen and ladies who built these wonderful instruments. They are clearly the American Stradivarius...

[@yipitsrose]

Thank you for making thing documentary! I thoroughly enjoyed it

[@theapplepaul]

Wonderful documentary done by Ms. Spender, an international musical treasure herself. I still miss the D18 that came my way back in the '70's. Eventually sold it to pay my mechanic for rings and valves on my '67 MGB. Great guitars have their own individual personality, and this one was beyond special.

[@MRBABAR]

Mary - this was OUTSTANDING. i'm heading for another visit to the factory tomorrow morning with my Dad and was perusing YT and am so glad I found your video. Really well done - thank you!

[@mitchweissman5045]

As a retail guitar Sales person for years, and musician/guitarist, I can say the main thing I loved about Martin were it's people. They couldn't be more helpful and concerned with getting the guitars right in every way. Great video. I spent many an hour on the phone and countless emails with everyone at all levels. Always a pleasure.

[@TogaManGuitarViols]

Mitch, I worked behind the glass counter in a few stores from the early 90's to the end of the Y2K's; the last 8 years at Cassells 99-08 as an asst manager (the actual Wayne's World/No Stairway store!). Having been in the MI business for over 30 years, to this day, I have friends at Martin. Actually, there are a lot of great folks all over this NAMM industry. I agree :)

[@tommybewick]

Every time somebody responds with; "As a..." I knew you're going to go on to pontificate to get attention to your post. Kind of nauseating. You're full of yourself.

[@artysanmobile]

What a superb presentation, Mary! I’ve been a fan, a player, and really, a lover of Martin guitars and for me, this is THE history of Martin. Fantastic job.

[@mitchweissman5045]

Yes, Mary. Great presentation!

[@gordonvanamburg8932]

Mary! You knocked the ball out of the park with this documentary. So many fascinating stories historic instruments! I would be terrified to even touch those guitars you got to play. Bravo

[@paul_domici]

I used to work in the original building in NYC for a jewelry company and we made the plaque that's on the outside wall!

[@sweetgav9163]

I have my dads 1968 Brazilian Rosewood. Thing is absolutely awesome. Sound is unreal.

[@jennifercall9014]

Thank you Mary for bringing us this documentary. I too am a Martin Fan. I also have spent a good portion of my life living in Germany and appreciate the German roots of the Martin. Very well done.

[@westonknight7474]

Long before I was a Classical Guitar major at the University of Central Florida, I started playing the guitar at the age of nine. I saw Mr. Mason Williams playing [Classical Gas] on the Smothers Brothers Show when I was a little boy, and that did it for me......I was absolutely hooked on the guitar from that moment on. I've played that song (note for note) in many restaurants as a tribute to Mr. Mason Williams many times as I remember, as my first Guitar instructor, Mr. Wayne Reese transcribed this music directly off of the Mason Williams album. There have been many fellow guitarist who have asked me where I found this perfect arrangement, and I've always let them know that this was accurately transcribed from the album by my first instructor Mr. Wayne Reese....what a blessing it was to have someone of his caliber instructing me at such a young age....I am eternally greatful to my parents for making me learn classical music at that age, instead of the music that I wanted to play at the time. Even though I've gotten off on a wild tangent, (I bring my thought around to my early adult years now), when I started playing in public in restaurants, and on some radio stations...playing all types of acoustic guitar music, I started using a Gipson steel string guitar, and a nylon string classical guitar for my musical gigs. These guitars served me well for my recordings at Full Sail recording studios in Florida. They really have state of the art studios in Florida, and I have very fond memories recording in many of their different studios. Finally coming to my point (four hundred years later) I've always wanted to own a Martin Guitar, but I've never owned one. I remember paying around four thousand dollars for my Gipson steel string, and around three thousand five hundred for my Classical nylon string guitar, but the Martin that I was looking at was around twelve thousand dollars at the time (I don't remember the exact model), but I do know that it was a bit out of my range, and I never got around to purchasing one of these masterpieces.....this is of course my loss. In the back of my mind, I've always had the thought.....one day I'll own one of these, but that day has never come to pass for me....once again.....my loss. This was a wonderful documentary ma'am, and I enjoyed it very much. Please be well.

[@paultisme]

Really captivating program Mary, and your amazing tone of voice is equally captivating..

[@missopowers]

This is very well done. Low key and professional, and covering the span of Martin's development and innovations with clarity and warmth. I've read most of the books and seen several other documentaries, and I am of the opinion that this effort is deserving of a place among them. I enjoyed it very much, thank you.

[@audiophile1024]

Informative, interesting and nicely edited.

[@tadbonkers6236]

Bravo, Mary. That was a great watch.

[@herrunsinn774]

32:17 Cool! The photo on the left is of Roy Rodgers (a childhood hero of mine. 🙂)

[@kareeme7]

My favorite documentary of Martin as one of my favorite artists visits my favorite guitar factory. Mary, you are not only a great artist, guitarist, singer, songwriter but you are also a fantastic documentary film maker. Thank you for this gift today.

[@prdeal]

This made me cry - thank you Mary. Absolutely beautiful.

[@keeganitreal]

Well done Mary! I live in PA and still haven’t made it up to the factory for a tour. This video has changed that. Scheduled my tour for next month!

[@thureinphyo9768]

More documentary like this please. We need more than 10 to 15 mins vids. This is more like it. Everything about this is beautiful and elegant.

[@Geeman002]

Mary Spender, you are a wonderful documentary make! Your enthusiasm for music and guitars is beautifully transferred onto everything you do. I’ve been a Martin player and owner for years, and your video is one of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure of viewing.

[@davidf384]

Thank you Mary & Martin - fabulous documentary.

[@paulahalfacre4783]

Great job on the documentary! Loved it!

[@pcmountaindog]

To be offered the chance to play a Martin from the early 1800s all I can say is you have my compliments and respect. These guitars don't really belong to Martin alone, they belong to all of us and were meant to be played. It's great to see Martin understands this and was willing to place such a guitar in your hands.

[@livergen]

Mary, you did a beautiful job in showcasing this Martin guitar documentary. I'm not sure if it was the sound of your voice and your loving tones, but there were many moments when I found my heart welling up in my chest. I'm 68 years old & can't begin to tell you how many guitars I've owned and played, Martin guitars being among them. And yes they are absolute quality and have a beautiful warm and distinct sound. Thank you so much for this in-depth tour, you did Martin Guitars & its history proud, You gently touched so many behind the scene aspects that should never be forgotten are casually spoken about. You definitely touched my heart in your explanations and putting forth your gentle humble spirit, you are an honest and caring lady and we love you for it. Stay blessed & keep safe as always. Danny in Texas.

[@GlacierSound]

Perfect timing! This is such a dope documentary, I am so happy you made this! More history stuff like this!

[@sjlBoise54]

So now Nazareth PA, and in particular the Martin museum and factory, are on my bucket list. Outstanding documentary. Thanks, Mary.

[@fordsrestorations970]

See Mary , people never get tired of hearing the history of music and instruments. It is because no matter how many times we hear it we always are able to learn more , you did a very good job on this

[@scottmiller4397]

Wonderful documentary!

[@sandyhammond]

Wow that kept my attention right to the end. Beautifully done!

[@bradleyduplooy12]

Great documentary. I really enjoyed watching this. Well done.

[@magic_hotel]

I'm not sure Martin could have a better ambassador. Excellent film. Thanks.

[@brianblair1478]

What a beautiful story. What an iconic instrument, that has been such an important and historic part of the American experience. Long live Martin Guitars. Thank you Mary, for your artistic insight and recognition of what Martin Guitars have meant to us all, even those that didn't know it.

[@flanneljoe7473]

So I'm a Pennsylvania guy . Love that you did this. I always hope we the people shine sometimes. Humbly

[@michaelenosmusic]

In the segment where you are playing that beautiful OM starting at 16:22ish.. you seem to be twinning with the guy in the old photo behind you. That's pretty sweet.

[@mestengo22]

I had a Martin a DM I think in days back I remember doing this cover of Take 5 on a 4track then using the Martin to pluck off the most gorgeous lead line anyways tks 4your videos ♥

[@sjazzp]

Wonderful film! So complete and informative 👏👏👏😀

[@rbmindful]

Outstanding, Mary!

[@janajeffsilvernickelladventure]

Thank You Mary!! What a great documentary!!

[@billmiller9332]

Love this doc, thanks Mary you are an amazing artist, and we appreciate your work!

[@michaelprozonic]

I live near to the Martin factory and the tour is well worth your time so see the craftsmanship in person if you ever visit the area. In the lobby you can try many of their models. The museum is fabulous. The people who work there are so friendly. The company is in good hands right now

[@pmsphoto]

Superb documentary Mary ! Thanks so much. 🙂

[@wesleykalor5267]

Thanks Mary. A very nice production with your guitar talent included.

[@nickd3895]

This was excellent, great work

[@marshallgeorge3819]

I think some narration work is in your future - you have a perfect voice for it !

[@thisisduncan917]

Interesting to note the 1834 guitar had a straight string pull design for tuning stability. Gibson is still struggling with this, but they rock.

[@DarkMatterEclipse]

Whatever she started playing @ 16:22 was a beautiful piece of music. 👍

[@fred993a]

Excellent Video - thank you Mary!

[@wallybornmann8336]

This is simply an amazing video - thank you so much. I've never owned a Marting though I have four Sigma Martins, 3 six-strings and one 12-string, which may be as close as I'll ever get. That being said more than one Martin player has paused and looked a second time at my DR-28. I'm going to share this video on my Facebook page. You did a brilliant job in my estimation. Again, thank you for the time and effort you put into creating this video. All I know to say is - you go girl! Be well.

[@davidmarsh9897]

Thanks, really enjoyed the documentary, thanks for putting it together, brilliant Mary.

[@adamcotton2121]

After a day of crippling depression, this doc is getting me through the night. Thank you.

[@markwilley7384]

Hi Mary.. Aussie Mark here.. Absolutely loved the doco on Martin guitars... Who knew how wonderful the Martin Legacy was. Thank you so very much and please keep posting your videos. Can't get enough.. Xox Mark

[@petershim5900]

Thank you Mary 🙏🏼 I really enjoyed this beautiful tour! 🙏🏼

[@Larrymarx]

*Mary!* Thank you for taking the time to make and post this excellent video *The History of Martin Guitar..♪♫♪*

[@63sgjunior]

Eye opening and informative great job Mary.

[@briancheetham9134]

Mary it’s quite evident that this was a labor of love. Thank you for sharing it with us!

[@MrTroy808]

❤ My late father loved Martin guitars. He played them almost exclusively in acoustic.

[@raymondmeers]

Thanks Mary. When I was finally making 'real money' in my 30s, the 1st guitar I bought was a Martin D37 I saw in my local music store in the Chicago Suburbs. I still have it. I still love it.

[@roop366]

That was an absolute pleasure to watch. Thanks Mary, good job!

[@cheneyrobert]

Wow this was fascinating 👏👏👏🥂

[@frogpedals]

Great job Mary. Nice doc!

[@pauldrummond225]

I really enjoyed this documentary and it shows that quality never dies.

[@AndrewFriedberg]

Great video!

[@ralfklonowski3740]

What a fine documentary! Kept me spellbound for the whole 43:31. Thank you so much.

[@garysmith3173]

I’m a drummer and even I find this very interesting. Great work as always Mary,thank you.

[@microdot4374]

Out the park Mary!...💖💖🤍🤍💙💙🎸🎸✍🏼

[@holliesheet3182]

WOWZERS! Listening to the guitars and learning the history is SO Rewarding, Miss Mary Spender! SPLENDID❗

[@keithhuckabee9859]

Very good video!

[@andfarr2]

Excellent overview Mary !

[@Madakalim]

How nice. I just got my Martin out of the case after all winter to play outside. The factory tour is on my list of things to do.

[@PhilippeArantesTina]

Thank you for this awesome video. I loved it ❤

[@daphunked]

Please do more documentaries Mary. It is so easy to listen to this educational content whilst the minutes drift away.

[@rolandharrison5651]

BRAVO - Such a fitting tribute to the Martin family and their contributions to American music, well actually the entire world. Thank you, it was a pleasure to watch.

[@chriswilloughby48]

Mary is a great educator and artist

[@LXS-ud6yf]

Martin should do right by Mary and make a Mary Spender signature model. I mean Rick Beato has a signature Gibson . . .

[@timchalmers1700]

Excellent documentary !!

[@PaulJHershey1]

Well done. Very well-done documentary. Hell, I don't even play guitar but found your documentary very informative and learned a lot.

[@deandaniel4911]

Great Job Mary !

[@overtonesnteatime198]

Such a great tribute to an amazing company who makes the best acoustic guitars in the world and has set the standard since the beginning.

[@thedutchman3929]

Great speaking voice.. great job on your quest

[@tedthien3606]

Awesome video! Thanks for taking the time and effort to share this history of the guitar with your fans.

[@nealfitzgerald2656]

I've watched a few of your videos but had never seen you play. You should play more, that little something you played was awesome!

[@fdschuler7863]

What a brilliant doco. Well done Mary.

[@alexdenton6586]

Very nice Mary , thanks

[@rocketman3231]

Amazing video. Thanks for sharing

[@jillbecker8651]

I got a 12 string Martin in 1968 for my 16th birthday from my brother! It's the most beautiful looking and sounding guitar I've ever played. My heart and soul are vested into it and me..❤

[@Bon3fish]

I really enjoyed this. Well done.