C.F. Martin & Co.’s Executive Chairman, Chris Martin IV, made a rare and highly anticipated visit to the UK this month, engaging with guitar enthusiasts, retail partners and the wider music community across two special events in Glasgow and London. The visit marks a significant moment for Martin fans, offering a firsthand look into the heritage and ongoing evolution of one of the world’s most iconic acoustic guitar brands.
Chris at guitarguitar, Glasgow
Chris Martin IV’s first stop was guitarguitar Glasgow, where he was welcomed by a packed audience of players, collector
s and industry professionals. The evening featured an insightful talk in which Chris shared stories about the Martin legacy, sustainability initiatives and the craftsmanship standards that have defined the company since 1833.
Renowned guitarist Craig Thatcher joined Chris for the event, performing a selection of pieces that showcased the clarity, resonance and tradition behind Martin instruments. The Glasgow appearance was particularly special as it marked Chris’s first-ever public event in Scotland, drawing fans from across the region.
Whilst there Chris sat down with Callum from guitarguitar to talk everything Martin. You can see the full interview here.
Chris at Royal College of Music, London
The UK visit continued at the Royal College of Music (RCM) in London, where Chris hosted an evening celebrating Martin’s storied history and its cultural impact across generations of musicians.
The timing of the event coincided with the RCM’s acclaimed Kurt Cobain Exhibition, which featured the original Martin D-18E famously played during Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged performance. T
his added enormous significance to the night, connecting Martin’s historic craftsmanship with one of the most iconic musical moments of the 1990s.
To mark the occasion, Chris unveiled a duplicate model of Cobain’s Unplugged guitar—built specially for the event. Guitarist Craig Thatcher performed with the replica on stage, giving attendees a rare opportunity to hear the instrument brought to life in the very building where Cobain’s original was on display. The combination of Chris’s storytelling, Craig’s performance, and the presence of one of rock history’s most recognisable guitars created a uniquely powerful atmosphere.
A Celebration of Heritage, Innovation and Music Culture
Chris Martin IV’s UK visit highlighted the continued relevance of Martin guitars across genres and generations. His appearances in Glasgow and London not only honoured the company’s nearly 200-year legacy but also deepened the connection between Martin and the UK music community.
For Westside Distribution, the events underscored the shared commitment to supporting musicians, retailers and the cultural institutions that keep acoustic music thriving. It was a pleasure having Chris, Craig and Carmen back in the UK.
