Hi, my name is Chuck Baleno, and on these pages you will find examples of some of the instruments that I have built. I was born into a second-generation family of builders of residential homes and light commercial buildings. My childhood exposure to craftsmen and craftsmanship fostered in me a natural desire to create and build things. As a result, I developed carpentry and mechanical skills at a very young age. At 13, I took an interest in the guitar, inspired by the likes of Chet Atkins, Roy Clark, Glen Campbell, and many others on TV variety shows of the 1960's. I started guitar lessons and loved learning to play. My guitar studies were interrupted, however, while I pursued and obtained a B.S. in Civil Engineering. In addition, I started a family of my own and a residential home building business with my two brothers.
Eventually, I resumed playing the guitar with the same enthusiasm as in my youth. I naturally worked on and adjusted my guitars as necessary and dreamed of purchasing a high-end acoustic guitar. Then I came upon a book called "Guitarmaking", by Cumpiano and Natelson, after which I began reading and studying lutherie in earnest. In due course, I built my first high-end vintage-style acoustic guitar, and Baleno Instruments was born!
My instruments are inspired by some of the great designs of Martin and Gibson but incorporate a variety of unique features and aesthetic choices that illustrate my independent thinking about guitar design and building. Thanks for Visiting!
About the Process
All instruments are built in a climate controlled shop with a constant 45% Relative Humidity with well acclimated tonewoods
Here you can see the rough back braces being glued in place in the go bar deck.
The sides being bent with heat in the bending machine
A heating blanket maintains a consistent even temperature during the bending process. The waist ram and springs keep the sides tight to the form.
The sides in the mold
The sides are held to shape in the mold while the linings and side bracing are installed, and while the top and back are glued in place.
Binding fixture
This clamping fixture aids in holding the binding tight in place while the glue dries.
