Hector Escobedo Hernandez

We were about a block away from the town square again, when a local gentleman called over to us, and in Spanish, asked us if we were looking for good quality guitars. We said yes, and he motioned us to follow him to his house. As we walked, he told us about his two sons, both luthiers in the town of Paracho. I was excited. He also gave us a brief history of his life and work, which spanned Canada, USA, Europe, and Mexico.

We arrived at his house and he led us through large metal gates into a room that was totally barren, except for a row of guitar hooks, with guitars on them. Just beyond this room was his living room, where he asked us to have a seat. His son Hector joined us. For about 45 minutes we talked and played some of their hand-crafted classical guitars. Mike acted as translator, and cameraman. Eventually it was time to go. As I started to say my good byes, my brother looked at me and raised an eyebrow: “You should at least ask how much”. It would certainly make the story more interesting if I could mention the amazing low prices of Paracho quality classical guitars!

I don't recall at what point I decided to buy one, but I did! It wasn't Hector's highest quality guitar, but it was hand-crafted, beautifully finished, and sounded great. The starting price was 2,300 pesos (about $195.00 Canadian). I talked him down to 1,500, and bought a hard case for 500. Nice souvenir!