Tommy Emmanuel
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Acoustic Fingerstyle Country

Tommy Emmanuel

Solo

Australian fingerstyle virtuoso and one of only five guitarists awarded the Certified Guitar Player title by Chet Atkins. His percussive technique transforms acoustic guitar into a one-man orchestra.

4 Eras
28 Gear Items

SIGNATURE TONE

Percussive, bright, and orchestral. The sound of a Maton AP5 pickup system combining piezo clarity with internal microphone warmth. Heavy thumb pick attack for bass lines, fingerpicks for melody, and body tapping for drums—all through AER amplification with pristine digital reverb.

SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA

Explore how the rig evolved over time

1

Early Career & Band Years

1970-1985 6 items
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Childhood prodigy touring with family band The Emmanuel Quartet. Developed electric chops and session work throughout Australia.

2

Electric / Session Era

1985-1995 7 items
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Australia's premier session guitarist. Playing Telecasters and massive rack rigs with Dragon, Air Supply, and other major acts.

3

CGP Solo Era

1995-2010 7 items
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International breakthrough as solo acoustic artist. Awarded Certified Guitar Player by Chet Atkins in 1999. Developed signature percussive style.

4

Modern Touring Era

2010-Present 8 items
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Continued worldwide touring with refined setup. Collaborations with artists like John Knowles and Jason Isbell while maintaining signature sound.