Collector's Guitars Now Teach ASU Students

Sheldon Urlik, a dedicated collector of classical and flamenco guitars, has made a significant donation of 51 instruments to Arizona State University's School of Music, Dance and Theatre in 2024. Valued by ASU at approximately $1.4 million, this collection encompasses guitars crafted over more than a century, from an 1869 Francisco González to a 2015 Marshall Brune.

Urlik's aim was to trace the evolution of the Spanish guitar, a goal supported by luthier Richard Bruné. Instruments from the collection, including guitars from 1869, 1910, 1926, 1956, and 1968, have already been featured in ASU performances.

Students are now benefiting directly from this gift. Davide Picci, an Italian doctoral student, found a suitable instrument for international competitions. Luis Rodriguez, a music therapy student, rents a professional-grade guitar, enhancing his musical expression. Martha Masters, an ASU professor, highlighted that access to such high-caliber instruments was previously out of reach for many students, comparing it to providing essential tools for other disciplines.

Urlik, who has known Masters for over two decades, decided to donate the remaining 51 guitars after selling some independently. He believes that "every guitar is a teacher," and this collection will continue to educate new generations of musicians. While most instruments will be used by students, potential sales of collector-focused pieces could fund the collection's maintenance, scholarships, and visiting artists. ASU Guitar Night on February 24 will feature more instruments from this remarkable collection.