Jack Petersen’s Fratello

Serial #26492

1992 Benedetto Fratello, 26492, Antiqueburst finish

This guitar was custom made by Robert Benedetto for jazz guitar’s most iconic and beloved educator, and Benedetto Player, Jack Petersen (1933-2026). Jack is credited with creating the modern pedagogy for jazz guitar for the undergraduate and graduate levels beginning in 1962 as the first faculty member and chairman of the Guitar Department at Berklee College of Music. Later he went on to chair the prestigious programs at the University of North Texas (North Texas State) and the University of North Florida. He has taught generations of teachers and many of the world’s top players.  Prior to his death, Jack asked Benedetto Guitars to take possession of his instrument, restore it to playable condition, and sell if for the benefit of his estate.

This 17” x 3” Fratello model was hand-carved by Robert Benedetto in his East Stroudsburg, PA. This instrument has been well played for more than three decades on stages and in classrooms throughout the country. Made with select grades of highly flamed maple, spruce and ebony, the instrument has an X-braced top and includes a floating S6 pickup.

This guitar has an extraordinary voice of a master grade instrument opened up by years of performance by a master musician. Warm, powerful, projective and extraordinarily balanced, it would serve any player as a primary concert or club instrument. While worn with decades of play and travel, the instrument was cleaned, polished, structurally inspected, and had a refret by Benedetto as recently as last year. Included is the original hardshell case, Jack’s gigbag, strings, picks, strap etc.

All proceeds of this sale will go directly to Jack’s estate. The sale can be processed through Benedetto for $15,500, which includes credit card fees, but does not include shipping and handling. Direct payment via check or cash to Jack’s estate without additional fees ($15,000) can be arranged with nearby pickup or delivery.

Please direct questions and inquiries to info@benedettoguitars.com.