The Grand Symphony or GS acoustic is the first new shape, style and size for Taylor since 1994 and it made its debut at the recent Winter NAMM Show. The new GS has a full-sized body, with broad upper and lower bouts. The solid top of western red cedar or Sitka spruce is supported by one of Taylor's not so secret features: optimized bracing from precision-carved framing that provides strength yet maximal flexibility of large guitar tops. This construction is one reason the GS has incredible power and volume and capable of producing an enormously dense sound. Inherent strength means the GS can take with ease all vigorous strumming but without the loss of Taylor's trademark: an excellent and balanced tone.

The GS has a clean, uncluttered look with an understated, single-ring abalone soundhole rosette along with microdot fret markers and ivoroid binding around the neck and body. The GS is available in four solid premium tone wood combinations: tropical American mahogany back and sides with western red cedar top; big leaf maple back and sides with Sitka spruce top; Indian rosewood back and sides with western red cedar top; and Indian rosewood back and sides with Sitka spruce top.

Look for the GS in mid-Spring of 2006. Prices will be available then but for now, contact Taylor Guitars at 619-258-6957 or www.taylorguitars.com