Introduction

In an earlier “Imagmusings” we looked at the history and products of our main electric guitar brand “Vintage”. This week we discuss Tanglewood guitars who are our principal supplier of new acoustic guitars. Tanglewood is a British guitar manufacturer, that has gained popularity in the UK and wider with its range of acoustic guitars which offer both quality craftsmanship and excellent value.

History

Tanglewood has a relatively recent history compared to some of the more established names in the industry. Tanglewood Guitars was founded in London in 1988 by Nigel Oliver and his partner Bernie Goodfellow. The company started small, importing guitars from around the world and selling them solely in the UK. Initially, Tanglewood focused on importing guitars from various manufacturers in Asia, particularly from China and Korea. The aim of the company was to provide quality instruments at affordable prices, which helped them gain popularity among entry-level and intermediate players.

Having established a reputation for quality products, Tanglewood expanded its operations beyond just importing guitars. They now manufacture their own instruments, establishing factories in China and Indonesia. This move allows them to have more control over the production process and ensure consistent quality across their product line.

Tanglewood offers a wide range of acoustic, electric, and bass guitars (and ukuleles), catering to players of all skill levels and musical styles. They are known for producing visually appealing instruments with solid construction, good playability, which often combine traditional designs with modern features. Tanglewood has been innovative in its designs, experimenting with different woods, finishes, and electronic configurations to meet the evolving demands of musicians. They also collaborate with artists and luthiers to develop signature models and limited-edition instruments.

While Tanglewood's roots are in the UK, the company has expanded its distribution network globally, selling guitars in Europe, North America, Asia, and other regions. They have built a reputation for providing reliable instruments at various price points, making them accessible to a wide audience.

Tanglewood actively engages with the musical community through sponsorships, endorsements, and events. They support emerging artists and participate in music festivals, trade shows, and industry gatherings to promote their brand and connect with players.

Product Range

Tanglewood Guitars currently has a diverse product range catering to various musical styles and player preferences.

Tanglewood TW40 Series: The TW40 series consists of acoustic guitars featuring classic dreadnought and orchestra body shapes. These guitars are known for their solid construction, rich tones, and affordability, making them popular choices for beginners and experienced players alike.

Tanglewood Crossroads Series: The Crossroads series offers vintage-inspired acoustic guitars with a distressed finish, evoking a retro aesthetic. These guitars are designed to appeal to players looking for a traditional look and feel at an accessible price point.

Tanglewood Sundance Series: The Sundance series represents Tanglewood's mid-range acoustic guitars, known for their premium features and craftsmanship. These guitars typically feature solid wood tops, high-quality electronics, and elegant finishes, appealing to discerning musicians seeking professional-level instruments.

Tanglewood Evolution Series: The Evolution series showcases Tanglewood's commitment to innovation and modern design. These guitars often feature unconventional body shapes, advanced bracing patterns, and premium materials, targeting players looking for cutting-edge aesthetics and performance.

Tanglewood Signature Models: Tanglewood collaborates with artists and luthiers to create signature models tailored to specific player preferences and musical genres. These guitars often feature unique designs, custom specifications, and endorsements from renowned musicians, enhancing their appeal to fans and collectors.

IMAG Music and Tanglewood

 Here at IMAG Music We are proud to offer Tanglewood Guitars and currently have several instruments in stock with prices ranging from the extremely good value Crossroads Orchestra Acoustic Guitars (£129) to a superb Sundance Historic Electroacoustic 12 String RRP £899 at a never to be repeated offer price of £729. Come down to our Attercliffe store, try one out and we guarantee that you will be impressed by the playability and sound of these excellent instruments.