1938 Martin D-18 played by Molly Tuttle

Molly Tuttle demos this amazing 1938 Martin D-18 acoustic guitar.

Everything you would expect from a prewar D-18; loud, direct, and responsive. The guitar features a low x and an 1 3/4" nut width. Overall, this '38 is in great condition for its age and after a neckset it's back playing fantastic. The guitar does have some honest play wear around the pickguard and buckle rash on the back.

[mrwi]

I love how she doesn't force the sound from the guitar - she just lets the instrument sing.

[jimboughton]

Molly Tuttle and a pre-war Martin: the best two minutes of the whole day.

[vasocreta]

Now this is a perfect example of an artist who knows how to bring out the unique voice of the instrument in her hands.
Simply beautiful.

[Polyhymnia]

She is certainly very talented, but she has also put in the time. Lots of people have talent, but it takes time, perseverance, and sacrifice. She’s paid her dues.

[wirey]

I once visited an electronics store where the elderly lady owner had a small selection of vintage guitars of various styles. One in particular was a confirmed Civil War era Martin that she actually let my son play. She was so happy to hear him play and my heart was really warmed that she was so free about letting him play the priceless instrument. Really a special moment. I got the idea that this lady didn’t sell her instruments to just anyone. It seemed that she would appraise the buyer almost as much as a buyer might appraise the instrument.

[blucheer]

Molly playing is as good as it gets just so fine and smooth she does bluegrass a great service

[joepayne]

I love this woman. She is an awesome flatpicker and artist. Thank you Molly for keeping it alive .

[allyons]

Molly you are truly incredible!!!the best guitar playing my 75 year old ears have had the pleasure to listen too. Thank you. Alan

[joepalooka]

As someone who owns a vintage 1962 Martin D28, I can attest that these wonderful old guitars are only as good as the skill of the person playing them. When they are played by a virtuoso talent like Molly Tuttle, they come alive. It's truly amazing.

[swordoftruth]

Molly you are appreciated and loved by so many whom you will never meet :-)

[davidburch]

Brilliant playing, wonderful guitar. Us old pickers are so lucky to have lived long enough to hear Molly. We know the music will carry on long after we're gone.

[burtbackattack]

That was one of the most wonderful things I've heard in a long, long time.

[PeteMartinMandolin]

Makes me really miss my 43 D18! Molly is such a wonderful musician!

[orbwithinanorb]

Her hammer ons and pull offs are so purposeful and clean. Masterful playing. She plays instinctively, like a hummingbird flaps its wings.

[brandoncompton]

She makes playing guitar look wayyyy too easy. So clean and precise, love her playing!

[ginogina]

She’s awesome, always. I grew up near the Martin factory in PA and played a 1949 00-18 through my childhood. Unique and fantastic sound.

[jonrob]

302 thumbs down? What am I not hearing or seeing... I think jealousy comes to mind. Lovely girl and well done. 👍

[johnduckworth]

I am lucky enough to have seen Molly play solo recently, and she was just marvellous.

[mwdollar]

Love Molly!! She makes any guitar sing..fast, delicate, and precise. Old guitars and Queen Tut are a great mix.

[mrlozano]

What a pleasure to listen to. That Molly Tuttle, one lovely person and phenomenal talent. Wish her all the best!