Greg Smallman (born 1948) is an Australian luthier renowned for his innovative designs of classical and acoustic guitars. Based in Sydney, Smallman began building guitars in the early 1970s, developing a distinctive construction method that departs from traditional classical guitar building techniques. His guitars typically feature a thin, lattice-braced soundboard made from spruce or cedar, reinforced with carbon fiber or other composite materials, and a lightweight, laminated back and sides. This design results in a higher sound output, increased projection, and a more responsive tonal character compared to conventional classical guitars.
Smallman's instruments gained international prominence through their association with celebrated classical guitarist John Williams, who adopted Smallman's guitars for concert performances and recordings in the 1990s. The collaboration highlighted Smallman's contributions to modern guitar construction and helped popularize his designs among professional musicians.
In addition to his work with individual performers, Smallman has influenced contemporary luthiers by publishing articles and giving workshops on his construction methods. His approach has been recognized for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern materials science, contributing to ongoing developments in acoustic instrument design.
As of the latest available information, Greg Smallman continues to build guitars in his Sydney workshop, maintaining a reputation for high-quality, performance-oriented instruments.
