The Music That Maton Made

Published to coincide with Maton's 70th anniversary, The Music That Maton Made is a comprehensive, full-colour tribute to a home-grown guitar range that has been embraced by famous musicians and guitar enthusiasts around the world.

From a small backyard workshop on the outskirts of Melbourne, Maton Guitars has grown into a truly inspiring Australian success story. In 1946, Bill May crafted a guitar in his Melbourne garage that he wanted the world to hear and to play. In a matter of years, it was in the hands of Elvis Presley on film. Later, a Maton played the riff that defined a generation on the Rolling Stones' 'Gimme Shelter'. Today, Maton is an essential part of music culture in Australia and around the world.

This is not only a book for guitar lovers - it's an intimate family history and an essential part of Australian music history. Compiling over ten years of research, and over two years in production, this book is as well-crafted and family-owned as Maton guitars themselves.

Go behind-the-scenes to meet the artisan guitar makers. Read the stories behind the songs created with Maton guitars. And go backstage to meet the bands and musicians that have, with a Maton in hand, shaped our musical world.

Packed full of interviews with the greats - from jazz legend George Golla to guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel; from Archie Roach, and The Wiggles, to Daniel Johns, Paul Kelly, and Josh Homme, and many more...

'Great story, informed telling, beautifully illustrated. Like the guitars, a collector's item.' PICK OF THE WEEK - Steven Carroll, Sydney Morning Herald

'Through personal accounts from family and musicians it transports us to the timber-sculpting factories, to the intimate rehearsal rooms and colossal stadiums of genre-defining musicians. The cathartic and gratifying essence of a Maton guitar is very much instilled in each and every page. At the heart of this compelling tribute is the beauty of a well-crafted guitar, and the family brand that made it distinctly Australian... Delves deeply into the iconic songs and musical moments produced by a Maton guitar.' - Chris Scott, Beat

'The book is as well-crafted and family-owned as Maton guitars themselves. Go behind-the-scenes to meet the artisan guitar makers. Read the stories behind the songs created with Maton guitars. And go backstage to meet the bands and musicians that have, with a Maton in hand, shaped our musical world.' - Australian Musician