This article delves into the foundational years of Sadao Yairi’s guitar manufacturing, drawing insights from a rare 1973 interview featured in the Japan Music Trades magazine. It sheds light on the pivotal moments and timelines that shaped the early production of S. Yairi guitars, a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship in the guitar world.
From Violins to Guitars: Sadao Yairi’s Early Career
Born in 1908, Sadao Yairi’s journey into instrument making began in 1923 when he joined Suzuki Violin Mfg., Co., Ltd. For nearly a decade, he honed his skills in violin production, establishing a strong foundation in woodworking and instrument construction. This period at Suzuki Violin, lasting until 1932, was crucial in developing the expertise that would later define his guitar making career. The birth of his son Hiroshi in 1935 served as a catalyst for Sadao to venture out independently and establish his own business.
The Birth of Yairi Gakki and Early Guitar Production
In 1932, Sadao Yairi took the leap to start his own enterprise. Renting two buildings, he utilized one as his living space and the other as his first guitar “factory.” Initially, his production focused exclusively on flat top steel string guitars. This marked the true beginning of Yairi Gakki MFG, the company name mentioned in the 1973 interview, and the commencement of S. Yairi guitar production years. The early focus on steel-string guitars demonstrates his initial market direction and craftsmanship focus.
Embracing the “Gut Guitar” and Post-War Re-establishment
A significant turning point occurred around 1940 when Sadao Yairi encountered a foreign-made “gut” guitar (referring to classical guitars with gut strings, later nylon). Captivated by its sound, he recognized it as a “real guitar” and dedicated himself to studying its construction. Despite lacking funds for advanced machinery and facing material control challenges during that era, Yairi persevered, dedicating his spare time to mastering the art of crafting these “new” guitars.
Yairi Gakki achieved considerable success in the early 1940s, reaching a peak production of approximately 100 guitars monthly with seven craftsmen. However, this progress was abruptly halted by World War II. The factory was shut down, and both equipment and workers were integrated into Kasuga Gakki Mfg. Co. in Kaizugun, Gifu, reflecting the wartime industrial shifts in Japan.
Following the war’s end in 1945, Sadao Yairi once again demonstrated his resilience by restarting his business from scratch. It took five years of dedicated effort to rebuild. New workers and tools were acquired, but the lack of experienced guitar makers meant Sadao had to personally train his workforce. This period was frustrating yet crucial for re-establishing his production capabilities. Initially focusing again on steel-string flat tops, he gradually reintroduced “gut” guitars into production. By 1960, classical guitar production constituted half of his total output, eventually becoming a primary focus by 1965. Monthly production then reached 500 guitars, signifying full factory capacity and a strong resurgence.
Name Variations and Brand Evolution
Throughout his career, Sadao Yairi adopted different variations of his first name on his instruments. Early models often featured “Sadao,” while later guitars might display “Sada” or “S. Yairi.” These variations can be helpful in broadly dating S. Yairi guitars and understanding the evolution of the brand’s markings over the production years.
In conclusion, the early production years of Sadao Yairi guitars, as illuminated by the 1973 interview, showcase a journey of dedication, adaptation, and mastery. From his initial focus on steel-string guitars to embracing classical guitar construction, and overcoming wartime setbacks, Sadao Yairi laid the foundation for a lasting legacy in guitar manufacturing. His commitment to quality and craftsmanship during these formative years cemented the reputation of S. Yairi guitars that continues to resonate with players and collectors today.
