The story begins in 1978, when master luthier George Lowden built a guitar for a young, already promising Bensusan. That instrument – an S22 model – would become legendary in its own right. Affectionately nicknamed the “Old Lady,” it remained Bensusan’s primary (and for many years, only) guitar, accompanying him through recordings, tours, and the development of his unmistakable fingerstyle voice.
This was no casual preference. Bensusan’s commitment to Lowden was instrumental in introducing the brand to a global audience. At a time when Lowden was still a relatively niche builder, Bensusan’s recordings and performances showcased the tonal depth and responsiveness of these handmade instruments, helping to elevate the company’s reputation worldwide.
PB “Old Lady” Signature Series
“Pierre Bensusan” Signature Series
“Pierre’s music is orchestral – his guitar simultaneously carrying melody, bass, harmony, and rhythm.”
The Signature Era: From “Old Lady” to “New Lady”
By 2009, after decades of collaboration, the partnership reached a new milestone: the creation of the Pierre Bensusan Signature Model.
Rather than simply replicating the “Old Lady,” Lowden chose to evolve it. The new guitar—sometimes called the “New Lady” – retained the tonal DNA of the original but introduced modern refinements: an F-style body, a soundbox bevel for comfort, and carefully selected tonewoods like Adirondack spruce and Honduras rosewood.
The result was an instrument designed for long hours of expressive playing, offering both clarity and warmth, as well as exceptional sustain and harmonic richness. It became a benchmark for contemporary fingerstyle guitars, embodying the balance between projection and subtlety that defines Bensusan’s sound.
A Musical Identity, Amplified
Bensusan’s music is often described as orchestral – his guitar simultaneously carrying melody, bass, harmony, and rhythm. His long-standing use of Lowden instruments has been central to achieving this complexity. The responsiveness of his 1978 guitar, in particular, has been noted for its ability to translate even the most delicate touch into a wide spectrum of tonal colors.
This is where the partnership becomes more than technical. The guitar is not just a tool – it is a collaborator. Lowden’s designs enable Bensusan’s musical ideas, while Bensusan’s playing reveals the full expressive potential of Lowden’s craftsmanship.
Legacy and Influence
Today, both Bensusan and Lowden Guitars are icons in the acoustic world. Lowden instruments are played by a wide range of acclaimed artists, but Bensusan remains one of the most closely associated with the brand.
Their partnership stands as one of the earliest and most authentic examples of artist–luthier collaboration. Long before signature models became common marketing tools, this relationship was built on trust, experimentation, and a shared artistic vision.
