Testimonials

John Greaney:

Patrick's abundance of technical knowledge and overall good taste allows him to craft guitars of the highest standard. All his instruments possess great clarity of sound among each fret of the guitar, even towards the higher registered notes. My spruced-top lattice braced model is everything I could have asked for in a guitar. From the beautiful original rosette, and overall appearance, to the sheer warmth in tone, I am completely happy with the guitar Patrick has made.

John Greaney, Maynooth, Ireland

John Feeley:

Patrick Burke’s guitars are wonderfully crafted and reveal the attention to detail which he has always displayed as a performer. They are powerful instruments with a warm, clear tone and well balanced throughout the range.

Ireland's leading guitar player and teacher, John Feeley

Lydia:

Possessing everything you need in a concert instrument, Patrick’s guitars have a huge sound, beautiful balance and are always finished with such care and originality. I have used my 2003 lattice braced model guitar to play competitions, solo recitals and for ensemble purposes. When playing ensemble music I noticed just how much power Patrick’s instruments possess, especially when used with string quartets or other similar chamber groups. Patrick’s guitars are also very much at home in the studio as they are they are on the stage. Recently I used it to record a new work by Brazilian composer Victor Lazzarini for guitar and live electronics, which is featured on the latest CMC (Contemporary Music Centre) of Ireland CD. Paddy has so many great personal qualities that he brings to his guitars, his years of performing, teaching, travelling and above all his patience in construction make his guitars always unique, always musical and extremely satisfying to play.

Brendan Walsh, B.A. Int, M. Mus. Performance, Dublin, Ireland

Viveka:

"I feel very honoured to own an instrument as beautiful as Viveka. Patrick's craftsmanship is superlative; his technical mastery as a luthier is complemented and enhanced by his mastery of the guitar itself. Viveka's tone is lush and resonant, every note is laden with harmonic richness and she is as musically rewarding at a whisper as at a roar - the volume and projection are truly breathtaking. Patrick's guitars ought to cost many times what he charges; I can't recommend strongly enough that you play one and find out for yourself."

Trevor Datson, Woking, Surrey, England

Black Arrow:

It was what, eleven years ago that you and Josh came by and played your concert at church? That is when my wife, Jeanne, bought your precious "Black Arrow.

Since that time, that amazing instrument has been my cherished friend.

The cedar top still sings. It is the one instrument that I love to sit with and play as I try to regroup after one of our hectic days at church.

In my 38 years of owning and playing Martin, Gibson and even my first Fender, Black Arrow brings me the most peace and solace when it is just me and my guitar and my music.

God bless you for your craftsmanship and your loving hands.

Yours in the love of God and the love of music,

Jimbo Clark, North Palm Beach, Florida

I am a pianist and not a guitarist, but I have been able to reap the benefits of Patrick's skill and artistry for many years, as I have had the joy of hearing the magnificent tones of "Black Arrow." It increases in richness and depth as it ages. I will forever be thankful to Patrick Burke for the gift he has given us in this amazing classical guitar.

Jeanne Clark

Patrick and his son Joshua prepare for their concert at Hilton Head, South Carolina