Guitar Videos

Musician Joe Dolman Performing with a Handmade Arden Guitar. A fantastic performance showcasing the sound and character of one of our handcrafted guitars.

Joe Dolman on Arden Guitars

“I’ve known Simon and Arden Guitars for several years and have been fortunate enough to own and play two of his handmade guitars.

What stands out for me is the care and attention that goes into every instrument. Simon is passionate about building guitars that not only look beautiful, but are made to be played. There is a real individuality to them — each guitar has its own character, feel and voice and Simon was fantastic at making those desires from the guitars a reality for me.

As a professional musician, an acoustic guitar needs to be an instrument I can rely on, whether I’m writing, recording or performing. My Arden guitars are instruments I genuinely enjoy playing and am very proud to own.

Simon was originally trained in the craft of guitar making by the highly respected luthier Alan Marshall, whose instruments were played by a number of notable musicians, including George Harrison of The Beatles. That tradition of hand-building and attention to detail is very much reflected in the guitars Simon makes today.

I’m very happy to recommend Arden Guitars to anyone looking for something genuinely individual and handmade, that can be reached for in any environment.”

Joe Dolman
Singer, songwriter, musician & producer

About Joe Dolman

Leamington Spa singer-songwriter Joe Dolman has built his career around performing, writing and producing music. His early recognition included support from BBC Introducing, leading to an appearance at BBC Radio 2's Festival in a Day at Hyde Park and exposure on BBC Radio 1.

For Joe, however, the motivation remains straightforward:

“I just want to make music I’m proud of.”

Steve Harper, (Professional musician) playing two Arden guitars, an Arden Hampton improvised blues number and an Arden Tanworth being played by Steve and his recital of Autumn leaves.

"As a guitar tutor, I met with Simon over 25 years ago and during the years that we have known each other, I have seen many of the wonderful guitars he has created. When Simon asked me to play on his on his website, I had no hesitation in accepting as this provided a further opportunity to play his guitars. As a guitar tutor and professional musician, I have been fortunate to play many instruments over the years, but none of the hand-made quality and tonality of Simon’s Arden range of guitars. I am pleased to say that I have recently commissioned Simon and he currently building an Arden (Hampton) for delivery next year."
Steve Harper
Professional Musician