The Brahms Guitar is a relatively new classical guitar designed by David Rubio and Paul Galbraith which has 8 strings and is played upright like a cello. It is based on the ancient orpharion with the objective of enabling new repertoire that is too difficult to play on a standard guitar. Unlike the traditional guitars with extra bass strings, this guitar has an additional treble string. This enables one to conveniently play chords that are impossible on standard guitars. For more information on the development of this guitar visit Paul Galbraith

I designed a tailpiece for this guitar to allow the end-pin to be angled and adjusted, while allowing the strings to be tied to it. Angling the endpin results in greater stability while playing in the vertical posture, not to mention the comfort of easily adjusting it to any height. In addition, the strings can be tied directly to the tailpiece to take some tension off the bridge. I machined this piece out of solid brass and was able to attach it to the instrument without screws or glue; only using the original peg for the endpin. A major goal for this design was to keep a low profile, and you can be the judge with the pictures below.

I am also working on my own transcription of a Brahms sextet which I initially tried and gave up on for the six-string guitar. With this instrument I have been able to make progress and I am amazed at its immense potential.

I am indebted to Martin Woodhouse for graciously providing me plans for this instrument. He apprenticed with the late David Rubio and continues to build these incredible guitars.

Pictures of the instrument with the tailpiece attachment:

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Pictures of the instrument prior to the tailpiece modification:

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