Pat Martino’s Pat Martino Gibson Signature

Pat Martino is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz guitarists of the twentieth century. His musical gifts were undeniable. While in his teens, he blew our minds as a sideman on recordings and then reset the jazz guitar bar on his first album as a bandleader, "El Hombre." He never let his fans down, even when faced with relearning the guitar after life-altering brain surgery. Pat was a remarkable musician, teacher, and inspiring human being.

I distinctly remember being blown away by his solo on the tune "Oleo" from the album "Desperado." Listening to it was an otherworldly experience. Fortunately, Domenic Mancini, the bass player in my father's band, grew up next door to Pat. There was my connection, and before I knew it, I was sitting in Pat's living room taking my first of many lessons. Being in his musical presence was inspiring, powerful, and humbling.

Pat Martino was my mentor and friend; that's part of what makes this current guitar offering so moving to me.

Gibson Pat Martino guitars are rare in and of themselves. The fact that Pat originally owned this one makes it an incredible opportunity for some fortunate player or collector.

This Gibson 1998 Pat Martino Signature model was most likely made for Pat before the official production run began in 1999. It's the early standard model with a beautiful black nitro finish. The neck profile is a custom medium C with a compound radius – very comfy! The body is semi-hollow carved out of a single piece of mahogany. An interesting side note here. Pat was one of the few jazz players who seemed to prefer solid-body-style guitars. In 1973, Pat played a Koontz archtop when I was studying with him. I recall asking if he had a favorite guitar. Without hesitation, he said his Les Paul Custom Black Beauty that was unfortunately stolen earlier in his career.

Like the innovative Paul Jackson Jr. model Gibson, Pat's guitar has the straight string pull headstock. The pickups are the original '57 Gibson with black covers that Pat had custom painted. The playability and tone are outstanding – I'd expect nothing less from Pat's very own guitar. Though there are some nicks, scratches, and buckle rash (nothing cuts through the finish), it's in excellent condition considering age and provenance. The guitar comes with signed documentation from Pat to show his ownership for those interested.

This exceptional instrument is more than just a fine Gibson guitar. It was Pat Martino's guitar.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.