C.F. Martin & Co., Inc.

Overview

C. F. Martin & Co., one of the world’s leading acoustic instrument makers, has been creating the finest instruments in the world for over 175 years. It continues to innovate, introducing techniques and features that have become industry standards including X-bracing, the 14-fret guitar, and the "Dreadnought" size.

Martin guitars are handcrafted by skilled craftsmen and women, who use a combination of new design and techniques along with those introduced by the company founder. Attractive displays showcase over 170 exquisitely crafted guitars that parallel the history. Through six generations, Martin Guitar's legendary heritage has helped create music history and define musical culture.

A visit to C. F. Martin & Co. in Lehigh Valley is a must for any music lover who wants to enjoy what’s inside the world of Martin Guitar. The Visitors Center located in Nazareth highlights the 1833 Shop and is the official source of Martin branded merchandise that appeals to the music lover in all of us. The Pickin’ Parlor is a private room where you can play high-end and limited edition guitars. The Play Me Wall is where the world comes to test out the new factory offerings and some of the best-known and top-selling guitars.

Virtual Programming

Missing live music? Tune into Facebook for Martin Guitar's "Jam in Place" series featuring live performances from artists including John Mayer, Thomas Rhett, and more.

Free Guided Factory Tours

The factory tour is the best way to understand how deeply committed Martin is to building the finest steel-string acoustic guitars in the world. Your guided factory tour starts in the lobby of the Visitors Center which houses the entrance to the Martin Guitar Museum, 1833 Shop, and a gallery wall of famous Martin owners. Plan to arrive early to browse. Guests are also invited to visit the Pickin' Parlor to play some of Martin's high-end and Limited Edition models. Visitors then head out on the factory floor to explore the art of guitarmaking, from old world tools to the state-of-the-art facility. Follow a guitar from rough lumber to a finished product which requires more than 300 steps to complete.

Tours last approximately one hour. Photographs are allowed without a flash. Video cameras or recorders are not permitted. Cell phones are permitted for capturing images and for use on the Museum Audio Tour. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Tour groups depart 6 times per day, Monday – Friday between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and are limited to 6 people per tour. Tickets must be purchased in advance for all adults and children.

Visitor Center & Museum

The Martin Guitar Museum is free and showcases a collection of historical instruments, memorabilia, photographs, and other objects that tell the Martin story – past and present – and Martin’s commitment to keeping music alive. The Martin Guitar Museum is a center for reflection, bringing together music history, culture, and craftsmanship. The Martin Guitar Visitors Center and Museum are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Over 175 Years Of Martin

The company, founded in the U.S. has been continuously family owned and operated for six generations. Currently headed by Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV, the company has been handed down five times since it was started by German immigrant Christian Frederick Martin Sr. in 1833. "Our signature product and Martin's seamless tradition of quality to this day remain a significant source of pride for my family and all of those who are involved in crafting these extraordinary instruments," said Martin Guitar Chairman and CEO Christian Frederick Martin IV.

Embraced by artists all over the world, the Martin guitar has helped define virtually all genres of music, from classical and country to blues, folk, and acoustic rock. The list of Martin players, past and present, reads like a Who's Who of the musical world and includes such legends as Elvis Presley, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, John Mayer, and countless others.