These handcrafted guitars are built by craftsmen under the direction of luthier/designer Kazuo Yairi. Yairi, who learned to construct violins and guitars from his father, started his own company to produce handmade guitars in larger quantities.
Alvarez Yairi acoustics were first imported to the U.S. in 1966, and were exclusively distributed by St. Louis Music, Inc. These quality acoustic guitars are designed by both luthier Yairi in Japan and the designers at St. Louis Music. Instruments are adjusted at the Alvarez Yairi factory in Japan, and re-inspected after shipping at St. Louis Music before delivery to dealers. In 2005, LOUD Technologies, Inc. purchased St. Louis Music, Inc. and all of their trademarks. With this acquisition, the headquarters of St. Louis Music was moved to Woodinville, WA. However, the guitar repair and set-up shop was still located in St. Louis. In 2009, Mark Ragin moved Alvarez Yairi guitars back to St. Louis Music in St. Louis that included management and distribution. For more information, contact Alvarez directly or visit their website.
Instruments currently produced in Kani, Japan. Distributed by St. Louis Music, Inc. in St. Louis, MO. Alvarez Yairi instruments have been produced since 1966.