This used 1999 W. Michael Surrency classical guitar is a rare and well preserved example of a handcrafted instrument from a notable regional luthier. It shows only light signs of wear, with no significant damage or fretwear, and remains in excellent condition. The guitar plays smoothly and delivers a warm, resonant tone. It comes with a sturdy hard shell case. While it does not include original documentation or a certificate of authenticity, the original luthier’s label is intact inside the soundhole.
Walter Michael "Mike" Surrency was a respected and passionate luthier based in Harris County, Houston, Texas. Before turning his focus to guitar building, Mike had an extraordinary career in electronics and aerospace. He served eight years in the U.S. Navy Reserve, including two years active duty aboard the destroyer U.S. Tweety during the Cuban Crisis. He completed the Electronics Apprentice Program at Pensacola Naval Station and later transferred to NASA’s Manned Space Center in 1963.
At NASA, Mike contributed to some of the most iconic space missions in history, including Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, and the Space Shuttle program. Before retiring in 1994, he served as Supervisor of Electronics in the Tech Services Division at Johnson Space Center. Among his notable achievements was his responsibility for the technical drawings of the American flag placed on the Moon during the Apollo landing.
Following his retirement from NASA, Mike pursued his lifelong love of music and craftsmanship by becoming a full time luthier. He specialized in classical and flamenco guitars. His instruments were played by well-known local Houston musicians such as Jamie Garcia, Val Phoenix, and Valarie, as well as by players across the United States.
Mike Surrency passed away in 2024, but his legacy lives on through his instruments. Each one is a testament to his precision, passion, and dedication to the art of guitar building.
