I was first referred to the Grand Salon De Guitare eight years ago when it was a relatively new venture of owner Paul Jabrayan. I was searching for my first high-end handmade guitar, but traveling hundreds of kilometers to meet individual luthiers at their workshops. At the Grand Salon I had the privilege of playing many high and mid-level guitars in the same place. My first impression of Paul was that he was honest and it was clear that he was working hard to build his reputation in Montreal. I did immediately notice that Paul had a true passion for finely crafted guitars and I felt no pressure to make a purchase; I could tell Paul was trying to help me find the right guitar for me and not just any guitar.
After a couple of visits, Paul received my future 2008 traditional spruce-top classical guitar from Douglass Scott and he called me to make sure I came in to the salon to play the instrument. I fell in love with the guitar immediately.
It’s now been eight years and the Grand Salon De Guitare continues to grow. I have met several phenomenal guitarists who have bought or traded guitars through Paul. I now only recommend his De Cascia beginner model “Lori” to my young students, but in my opinion even his higher-end De Cascia guitars strongly compete with classical guitars in the same price range. I highly recommend that any beginner, intermediate or advanced classical guitar student/player take the time to stop by the Grand Salon De Guitare in Montreal to try his guitars.
