I opened the case yesterday evening without any particular expectations. The instrument is beautifully understated, which suits me perfectly. It’s just… beautiful.

And it sounds fantastic—already. It’s hard to believe this is a brand-new instrument. It responds best to a delicate touch, which is something I’ll need to work on, but it’s an absolute delight to play.

Melodies seem to flow from it naturally, and the chordal possibilities feel endless—everything comes so effortlessly. I’m truly delighted. I couldn’t be happier.

That’s it, really. I’m deeply grateful.

Duncan Strouts, Sweden

There’s something about it that I’ve never found in any other instrument: a perfect balance of powerful volume, warm and weighty bass, and crystal-clear trebles that never get lost in the mix. The sustain and harmonics are beautiful too.

As far as I’m concerned, it’s a perfect instrument—and I’ve had it for 14 years now.

Jean Damei, France

Now I could assess the instrument by reference to all the usual criteria of fit, finish, sound quality and feel, but one word occupies my mind and for me says it all: ‘exquisite’.

It is as near to perfection and specification as I could have hoped for.

Steve Driver, Tasmania

I’m a fan of Nigel’s work. I have 2 of his guitzoukis (22″ and 24″) and they’re both loud, clear, tonally rich and resonant and easy to play. I perform trad Irish music in my band Shameless Seamus and also use I with Midnight Oil. I took the Session King out on the road in 2017 and it delivered every night of our 77 date world tour. People were asking everywhere ‘what’s that 8 string that sounds so good’.

Jim Moginie, Australia

What can I say about Nigel’s instruments? They’re so good I have two, a standard bouzouki and a Howe Orme style Gazouki. Am I a lucky guy or what?? They just ooze quality, their tonality is incredible and they just seem to give and give no matter what the situation!! They have a rich acoustic sound, great for playing in noisy Irish Trad Sessions and brilliant for recording. The tone and response all the way up and down the fretboard is majestic. Nigel is a master craftsman and the standard of workmanship and artistry of his instruments is second to none. Would I ever replace them??? I doubt it……. unless it was for another Forster!!!!

John Ryan, Dublin, Ireland

I love the tone, volume and playability of my new tenor. Also she’s very easy on the eye and gets no end of admiring gazes and comments.

Bob Mark, England

This tenor is a joy, and every bit as versatile as I had hoped. Top-notch craftsmanship, and a beauty to behold – and more importantly to play. And a great balance tonally: warm bass, crisp middle and a singing top end, right up the neck – just what the doctor ordered. And what a doctor Nigel is! – the build was a pleasure from start to finish.

Ed Baden Powell, England