Tiny Instruments, Grand Tradition

In Paracho, the famed guitar-making capital of Michoacán, music lives in the wood, in the callused hands of its artisans, and in the quiet patience of craft passed down through generations.
But while many in this mountain town build full-sized guitars destined for stages near and far, Héctor David Negrete has chosen a more delicate path: crafting miniature string instruments, each one a marvel of detail, proportion, and devotion to tradition.
Héctor’s pieces are not toys or souvenirs—they are fully functional replicas of vihuelas, guitarrones, mandolins, violins, and, of course, classical guitars. Some fit in the palm of your hand, others barely larger than a matchbox. Yet each instrument is shaped, assembled, and varnished with the same precision and reverence as their full-sized counterparts. It’s a discipline that requires deep knowledge of luthiery, but also immense patience, dexterity, and vision.

Born and raised in Paracho, Héctor grew up surrounded by the sounds of wood being carved and strings being tuned. His family, like many in the town, was involved in instrument making, and he began learning the craft at a young age. Over time, he was drawn not just to building guitars, but to the challenge and poetry of scale—of condensing something so intricate and expressive into a form you could carry on a keychain, wear as a pendant, or display like fine jewelry.
But don’t let their size fool you: these tiny instruments are not shortcuts. Each piece includes accurate frets, tuning pegs, and inlaid rosettes, all made by hand. The strings are real. The sound boxes resonate. And for Héctor, that authenticity is what matters most. “If it doesn’t work as an instrument,” he says, “it isn’t finished.”
Héctor’s miniature instruments have been exhibited at artesanías fairs across Michoacán, and he has won recognition for his technical mastery and creative precision. Collectors, musicians, and curious admirers are often amazed at the level of detail he’s able to achieve—some even commission custom sets that reflect their own musical backgrounds or regional styles.
Beyond the bench, Héctor is also passionate about preserving the musical heritage of Paracho.
He often collaborates with local schools and workshops, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of luthiers and helping young people appreciate the cultural roots of their community. In doing so, he ensures that even the smallest instrument can carry a powerful legacy.

With each tiny guitar or violin, Héctor David Negrete reminds us that greatness is not always measured in size. His work reflects the soul of Paracho—carefully carved, finely tuned, and humming with life. Whether held in the palm of a child’s hand or admired in a collector’s case,
his instruments sing a song of tradition, craftsmanship, and deep cultural pride.

Feria Maestros del Arte 2025

AWARDS

·      2022 Second place in miniature, Toy contest

·      2023 Best traditional toy

ARTIST INFORMATION

Fray Francisco de Castro #417,

Paracho, Michoacan 60250  

cel 45 2169 4906 

miniaturas415@icloud.com

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