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100s of hand-built 100s of Acoustic Concerts Master Classes and Seminars Win a $5,000 Solomon !

South Florida’s Leading GUITAR SHOW Miami Beach Convention Center April 11th 13th Sponsored by: Allied Lutherie Healdsburg, CA Dream Guitars Weaverville, NC Glades Guitars Pembroke Pines, FL

newportguitarfestmb.com Welcome to Newport Guitar Festival Miami Beach Ticket Prices Parking in Miami Beach Table of Content

Tickets will be Welcome to the Newport Guitar Festival in Miami Beach. and Guitar lovers will recognize available at the door and through many of the world’s top guitar-makers () and players in this unprecedented gathering in South Florida—and perhaps the world. We have collectable guitars for sale and display, hundreds of mini- concerts, seminars, and master classes—something for everyone who loves guitar, an most everything free with admission. One day pass $20.00

Music lovers will be introduced to the renaissance in guitar-making and acoustic music which has Two day pass been quietly building to a crescendo for the past 15 years, creating a new golden age of guitar in $36.00 our time. Art Collectors and other investors will learn about instruments which have value for their Three day pass mastery, rare materials, and ground-breaking inlay, which consistently far out-perform everything from $48.00 Gold to the S&P 500.

Sponsors While providing “art that sings” for the world’s top musicians as well as enthusiastic amateurs, these guitars are recognized by museums around the world. Imagine if you could have bought a Stradi- varius from Stradivarius! Well, at this show you can come very close (and hear Paganini dem- onstrate it!). Recent auctions at Christies and Sotheby’s have seen some of these guitars sell for over a million dollars, when just a few years ago, they were instruments hanging in music shops.

Paralleling the world of hand-crafted watches, pens, and other popular collectables, but adding an element of a highly functioning , this show provides something for musicians, col- lectors, and just people who love world class music as it has never been seen before in South Florida. Concert Schedule...... 7 Top experts in guitar collecting from the Blue Book of Guitars will be on hand, as well as the world’s top inlay artists and builders—together as never before—in free seminars. We also hope you will join Seminar & Master Classes.....8 us for the early evening concerts on the show floor (also free with admission) by the John Jourgen- Master Luthiers...... 9 son Quintet, sponsored by the Fretboard Journal, on Friday and world renowned Acoustic Page 9 Page 13 Page 17 Page 21 Page 25 Page 29 Michael Chapdelaine, sponsored by Schenk guitars. Abyss Guitars Craig Lavin Custom Inlay Hayotuk Guitars Manzer Guitars Poling Guitars Voyage-air Guitars A.J. Lucas Darling Guitars Hodges Handcrafted Guitars MacCubbin Guitars Randall William “Grit” Laskin Guitars Andrew White Guitars David LaPlante Hoffman Guitars McAlister Guitars Reede Guitars Woolson Soundcraft And of course, everyone will have the opportunity to win a $5,000 Archtop masterpiece by one of the Applegate Guitars David John How Guitars McElroy Guitars Ribbecke Guitars Y. Kawakami Guitars hand-built industry’s fastest rising stars, Erich Solomon. (Must be 18 years of age or older to win, no Page 10 Page 14 Page 18 Page 22 Page 26 purchase necessary, see website for rules.) by Renee de Jonge Guitars John Walker Guitars McKnight Guitars Robinson Inlays Beardsell Guitars Doolin Guitars Jonathan Plant Guitars Mermer Guitars RS Muth Guitars Benedetto Guitars Dream Guitars, Inc. Jonathan Wilson Designs Michael Keller Guitars Schenk Guitars With over 240 demonstration concerts, exhibitions, seminars, master classes, guitar accessories, and, Bluett Brothers Duke of Pearl Julius Borges Guitars Mirabella Guitars Sharp Custom Guitars of course, masterworks of guitars that range up to $300,000 but start in the hundreds, this first show Allied Lutherie Page 11 Page 15 Page 19 Page 23 Page 27 of its kind will thrill the music lover and educate players and collectors alike. Check out our website Brunner Guitars Ebata Guitars Kevin Ryan Guitars Monteleone Guitars Siesta Key Guitars, Inc. at www.newportguitarfestmb.com for updated times and details of classes and performances. Please Healdsburg, CA Bryson Guitars EVD String Instruments Kingslight Guitars Mortoro Guitars Solomon Guitars Charis Acoustic Kinnaird Guitars O.C. Bear Custom Guitars Strobel Guitar note that many more guitars will be exhibited than those listed, and impromptu concerts at exhibitors Ellsberry Archtop Guitars Dream Guitars Charles Fox Guitars Frank Verrilli Custom Klein Gutiars Oriskany Guitars Sugita Kenji Acoustic Guitars tables and in quiet rooms will be taking place all day in addition to the listed demonstrations. Tickets available at the door or at all Ticketmaster outlets. Weaverville, NC Page 12 Page 16 Page 20 Page 24 Page 28 Charles Freeborn Guitars Gadotti Guitars Kragenbrink Guitars Paragon Guitars Tippin Guitars Galloup Guitars Lashbrook Guitars, LLC Paris Banchetti Guitars Todd Lunneborg Guitars Glades Guitars Henry Lowenstein, Festival Director Collins Guitars German Guitars Lehmann Guitars Ken Parker Archtops Tom Doerr Guitars Comins Guitars Haight Guitars Lucas Custom Instruments Petros Guitars Victor Baker Guitars Pembroke Pines, FL

4 5 ROSEWOOD STAGE MAHAGONY STAGE MERMER GUITARS - Mary Flower OC BEAR GUITARS - Kinloch Nelson POLING GUITARS - John Creech REEDE GUITARS - Steve Kaul VOYAGE AIR GUITARS - Buster B. Jones MONTELEONE - Woody Mann CHARIS ACOUSTIC - Mary Flower CHARLES FREEBORN GUITARS - Woody Mann GALLOUP GUITARS - Don Alder EVD STRING INSTRUMENTS - Edward Victor Dick HOFFMAN GUITARS - Muriel Anderson LAPLANTE GUITARS - Michael Chapdeleine KEN PARKER ARCHTOPS - Enrique Gardano/Richie Zellon LEHMANN STRINGS - Kinloch Nelson BORGES GUITARS - Chris Proctor SUGITA KENJI ACOUSTIC GUITARS - Jaime Stillway RIBBECKE GUITARS - Richie Zellon WILLIAM LASKIN GUITAR MAKER - Paul Asbell MORTORO GUITARS - Woody Mann MCELROY GUITARS - Nina Gerber QUEST GUITARS - Don Alder EBATA GUITARS - Kinloch Nelson GERMAN GUITARS - Woody Mann WOOLSON SOUNDCRAFT - Larry Pattis GADOTTI GUITARS - Richie Zellon/Enrique Gardano Y. KAWAKAMI GUITARS - Peter Farber JOHN WALKER GUITARS - Nina Gerber KLEIN GUITARS - Steve Wildeyildey MIRABELLA GUITARS - Richie Zellon MCKNIGHT GUITARS - Chris Proctor ELSBERRY GUITARS - Richie Zellon MCCUBBIN GUITARS - Michael Chapdeleine KELLER GUITARS - Buster B. Jones BENEDETTO GUITARS - Jerry Sims/Howard Paul AJ LUCAS - Nina Gerber HAYOTUK GUITARS - Steve Wildey COMINS GUITARS - Jerry Sims JOHN HOW GUITARS - Paul Asbell APPLEGATE GUITARS - Nina Gerber DAVID TAYLOR GUITARS - Michael Chapdeleine BRUNNER GUITARS - Roy Book Binder SCHENK GUITARS - Michael Chapdeleine RANDAL KRAMER GUITARS - Steve Wildey RYAN GUITARS - Muriel Anderson JONATHAN WILSON DESIGNS - Jonathan Wilson COLLINS GUITARS - Woody Mann HAIGHT GUITARS - Kinloch Nelson KOA STAGE CHARLES FOX GUITARS - Michael Chapdeleine STAGE DOWNSTAIRS TODD M. LUNNEBORG GUITARS - Todd Lunneborg TIMARA CUSTOM SHOP - Tim Wallace MANZER GUITARS - Muriel Anderson ROBIN AMPS - Lee Boys LUCAS GUITARS - Jamie Stillway PEAVY ELECTRONICS - Lee Boys LASHBROOK GUITARS - Paul Asbell PEAVY ELECTRONICS - Lee Boys RS MUTH GUITARS - Jamie Stillway ABYSS GUITARS/ARK AMPS - Lee Boys DREAM GUITARS - Al Petteway STROBEL GUITARS - Tim O'Donnell DEJONGE GUITARS - Mary Flower NECK UP - Mark Hamre PETROS GUITARS - Peter Farber TIMARA CUSTOM SHOP - Tim Wallace ANDREW WHITE GUITARS - Jamie Stillway COLLINGS GUITARS - Pat Karwan DOERR GUITARS - Chris Proctor DIRECT SALES - Jorge Perez/Jose Luis Moreno KRAGENBRINK GUITARS - John Creech The focus of the show is entirely on the display and sale ORISKANY GUITARS - Pat Karwan of the world’s finest guitars. Demonstrations of the SHARP GUITARS - Peter Farber PARIS BANCHETTI GUITARS - Muriel Anderson hand-built instruments in “mini-concerts” will be held SOLOMON GUITARS - Buster B. Jones every 15 minutes on two sound stages. In order to make PARAGON GUITARS - Don Alder KINNAIRD GUITARS - Peter Farber certain that these concerts do not distract from the HODGES GUITARS - Don Alder exhibitors, the demonstrations will be broadcast on large MCALISTER GUITARS - Pat Karwan screens on the floor of the show, so that the concerts can TIPPIN GUITARS - Al Petteway DARLING GUITARS - Paul Asbell be viewed and heard without leaving the exhibition area.

Muriel Anderson Woody Mann Carlos Molina The John Jorgenson Quin- Richard Gilewitz Danny Combs tet Peter Farber Andy Wahlberg Don Alder Larry Pattis Steve Kaul Mary Flower Pat Karwan John Creech Nina Gerber Jorge Perez Chris Proctor Jamie Stillway Jerry Sims and Howard Buster B Jones Paul Asbell Paul Al Petteway Kinloch Nelson Enrique Gardano Roy Book Binder Steve Wildey Richie Zellon Mark Hamre Michael Chapdelaine Edward Victor Dick Tim O’Donnell

John Jorgenson Quintet Michael Chapdelaine Friday April 11th Saturday April 12th 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Sponsored by Fretboard Journal Sponsored by Schenk Guitars newportguitarfestmb.com

Chris Proctor

Abyss Guitars Kevin L. Pederson owns and operates Adrian Lucas’ guitars have been praised A.J. Lucas the Abyss Guitar Company as a one-man by Martin Simpson, Pierre Bensusan, Jack shop. Located in Forest City, Iowa, where Lawrence, John Renbourn, Craig Ogden Bradley Bennett Kevin grew up on a farm, Kevin entered and Larry Cooperman. His revolution- the Lutherie business by first being a ary design work with the radial classical player, and that is reflected in the tone guitar and his use of French Polish has and ergonomics of his electric guitars. earned him exhibitions in the prestigious Kinloch Nelson Linley Gallery in London and National Guided by the mottos “success is when Centre for Craft and Design. Classical gui- SeminarAll Masterclasses and Seminars are $40, s preparation and opportunity meet,” and tarist Rob Johns is also an enthusiastic fan unless marked with asteriks (**) are free with “so many people miss out on opportunity of his instruments and has played them admission on a first come, first seated basis. Buster B. Jones because it is dressed in overalls and looks exclusively for the last decade. like work,” Kevin’s guitars emphasize at- tention to tedious hand work and detail. Adrian builds 10-15 guitars a year, His inlays often have religious themes, modestly priced at $3,900 to $5,000. He MichaelM Chapdelaine and are graphic and intense, match- likes to build one at a time so that he can MASTER CLASSES SATURDAY LOCATION ing the colors, woods and finishes of his give his full attention to each instrument. highly wrought hand-made instruments. This is not the most efficient way to build Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Muriel Anderson C225 Self taught and celebrating his 11th an- guitars, but he believes it produces the MurielM Anderson Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Kinloch Nelson "Mapping The Fretboard" C221 niversary of guitar making, Kevin repre- best instruments. Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Buster B. Jones C227 sents the highly personal and dynamic Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Mary Flower D232 segment of the hand-made Adrian Lucas works part time teaching Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Jamie Stillway D239 MarM y Flower world, inspired and developed by his rela- guitar making at Lincoln College in New- tions with other artists in the modern ark, England, and has been published Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Michael Chapdeleine D237 widely in text books. Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM John Jorgenson C227-C228

MASTER CLASSES SUNDAY LOCATION JamieJ Stillway Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Chris Proctor D239 Forest City – IA Lincoln UK Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Don Alder D237 www.abyssguitars.com www.lucasguitars.co.uk Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Nina Gerber D221 DDon Alder

Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Paul Asbel D232 Andrew White Guitars From the mountains of West Virginia, An- Having apprenticed extensively with Applegate Guitars Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Woody Mann C225 drew White has been crafting unique and Master Luthier Jim Olson, Brian Applegate Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Buster B. Jones C227 expressive guitars since 1999. A graduate has built guitars under his own name of West Virginia University, Andrew now since 2001 to great fanfare. Known for Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Kinloch Nelson D236 JohnJ Jorgenson works as a full-time luthier and builds an his exceedingly high level of precision SEMINARS FRIDAY LOCATION average of 20 guitars per year. He has de- and forward-thinking designs includ- What It's Worth Guitar Marketing 101 Steve & Zach Fjestad, veloped three original body styles, most ing sound ports and arm bevels, Brian Friday April 11th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM D236 Henry Lowenstein, Denis Merrill RRichard Glick notably recognized by their serpentine also offers guitars with a variety of scale line. Like many of the builders in the lengths, ranging from a 28” scale length LOCATION SEMINARS SATURDAY modern gold age of Lutherie, Andrew’s Jumbo/Baritone steel string to a 660 mm Dr. Brad Bennet - "Endangered Wood and Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM C224 work reflects his strong curiosity in the scale classical guitar. He also offers his Alternative Tone Woods" Woody Mann guitar as both a musical instrument and most popular SJ style and a Jumbo steel Craig Lavin, Grit Laskin, Harvey Leach, a piece of art. He has continually experi- string guitar with a 25.34” scale length. Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Larry Robinson & Chuck Erickson mented with design and function, and is Recently profiled by the Fretboard Journal always creating a new and aesthetically (Winter, 2006) as one of the well-respect- Saturday April 12th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Richard Glick - "How To Choose The Right Guitar" D234 PPaul Asbel alluring instrument. ed “Minnesota School” luthiers (along Saturday April 12th 4:00PM-5:00PM Charles Fox - "Innovations In Guitar Construction" C224 with Keller, Ryan Olson and Hoffman), What It's Worth Guitar Marketing 101 Steve & Zach Fjestad, Saturday April 12th 5:00PM-6:00PM D236 Brian’s marriage of technology and Luthe- Henry Lowenstein, Denis Merrill rie are making him increasingly popular CCraig Lavin SEMINARS SUNDAY LOCATION amongst players and collectors alike. Sunday April 13th 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Kevin Ryan - "Modern Guitar Construction" C224

CCharles Fox

ForFor moremore informationinformation andand toto registerregister andand pay forfor thethe seminarsseminars ppleaselease vvisit:isit: NNina Gerber Morgantown, WV Chanhassen, Minnesota www.andrewwhiteguitars.com www.applegateguitars.com

Kevin Ryan 8 9 newportguitarfestmb.com newportguitarfestmb.com

Brunner Guitars was established in 1995 Banjos by Renee Inducted into The Hall of Fame For the past decade, Allan Beardsell has Beardsell Guitars Brunner Guitars David Bryson is “home grown treasure” Guitars Bryson in 2005, “Custom Handcrafted by been quietly creating some of the most by Lukas Brunner in the beautiful Swiss for the guitar players of South Florida. Renée” best describes the intricate de- innovative guitars of the new golden age Engadin Mountain Valley. Growing up in Miami and traveling tail and fine craftsmanship in Renee’s of guitars. After studying with master lu- Since that time, Brunner Guitars has extensively, Bryson is largely self taught custom inlay, engraving, and complete thier, Sergei De Jonge, Allan set up shop come to be known for its innovative as a luthier, but through natural skill and love of banjo building, repair and and began building a variety of extremely construction and design. These special intuition as a player, has managed to de- restoration. Her work is known as “NE innovative instruments, making use of the instruments are created using a blend of sign and build some of the most beautiful Plus Ultra”. Renée Karnes apprenticed largest soundports in the industry and traditional craftsmanship and Brunner’s guitars, spanning the range from electric, to Master Henry Lea, beginning her the most advanced back bracing available original, revolutionary designs. to acoustic, to archtops. He uses unusual tutelage at the age of 20. She worked today. He also produces guitars with an The travel “Outdoor Guitar” with its woods, sourced in South Florida but with Henry for 13 years until his pass- innovative neck adjustment design which remarkable quick-and-easy-to-remove received from around the world, and the ing in 1985. Renee inherited Henry’s allows the player to change the angle of neck and Big sound, has become one of unique sound of his instruments is com- business to carry on in the repair, res- the neck with one adjustment. Allan was Brunner’s most popular models and has plimented by elaborate inlays and imagi- toration, and building of banjos. She featured on the “Great Acoustics” page gained recognition worldwide. native juxtapositions of woods found on began building custom one-of-a-kind of Acoustic Guitar Magazine. While The Brunner full sized Custom Guitars the world’s finest instruments. banjos in 1982 and has continued to best known for his fabulous long scale are high-end instruments that boast produce heirloom “Art” models which nylon Flamenco guitar (Guernica) and his full, round sound, natural elegance and are considered the finest examples unusual steel string flat top guitars, Allan beauty. Every handcrafted Custom Guitar of banjo inlay and engraving in the also makes , electric guitars is as unique as the who plays world. An authority on Vintage Ban- and harp guitars. it, and is built to suit each customer’s jos, she has restored banjos for many individual needs and desires. collections around the world including Another innovation that distinguishes Akira Tsumura 1001 banjo collection. Brunner Guitars from others is the “Flying Top” construction. This unique bracing system allows the top to vibrate more efficiently while providing more structural support than traditional systems. California Toronto, Canada Lavin Switzerland Port Orange FL www.banjosbyrenee.com www.beardsellguitars.com www.brunner-guitars.com www.brysonguitars.com

Benedetto Guitars Robert Benedetto is widely acknowledged Along with producing masterful steel Bluett Brothers Violins Charis Acoustic Bill Wise built his first guitar in 1996. This Charles Fox has been active in the de- Charles Fox Guitars as one of today’s foremost makers of string and resophonic guitars, Mark was preceded by 17 years in the auto- velopment of modern American lutherie archtop guitars. Over a prolific four- Bluett is a prodigious luthier of other motive engineering profession where he for 40 years. He enjoys an international decade career, he has personally hand- stringed instruments having just com- was recognized for many patents and in- reputation as an artisan, designer, con- crafted nearly 800 instruments, includ- pleted his 200th violin. A Bluett violin novative work. This is a common theme sultant and educator. His original design ing 500 archtops. “My roots are in gives the player the boldness and volume in modern Lutherie, where technology concepts, such as the thin-line acoustic guitar. It’s been my love and my focus of a Guarnarius while keeping the sweet has played such a vital role in honing guitar, and his building techniques and since Day One.” says Benedetto, and his tone known to the Stradivarius. As man- the skills of the craftsman and ensuring production devices, such as the universal guitars appear on countless recordings, dolins have gained popularity, Bluett F4 unprecedented precision. Despite his side bender, are used by guitar makers TV & film soundtracks, in videos, books, and F5 styles have become sought after. success in engineering, it was his gift of and factories around the world. In 1973 magazines, museums (including the Mark has perfected the combination of woodworking and his passion for crafting he founded the first school of lutherie in Smithsonian Institution) and on concert a deep tone, volume and “the chop” to guitars that drove him to this new career, N. America, the School of Guitar Research stages worldwide. meet the standards of some of the finest where he was rapidly recognized for his & Design in Vermont. In 1978 Charles’ players in the world. Mark’s craftsmanship and innovation. GRD Guitars production shop helped In 2006, Benedetto joined forces with concentration on the carved instruments Detailed precision work is at the heart of define the market for high-end acoustic Howard Paul to bring Benedetto Gui- has resulted in a growing list of satisfied the Charis Acoustic mission to provide its and electric guitars. He established the tars to the next level, manufacturing a musicians, both bluegrass and classical. customer with the finest quality, person- American School of Lutherie in 1993 and broad line of more affordable profes- His guitars cross all these lines and round ally-crafted guitars available. Bill is always co-founded the Healdsburg Guitar Festi- sional instruments without compromising out the company’s recognition for collect- striving for new innovative ways to fine- val in 1996. Charles lives and teaches in the unparalleled Benedetto worldwide able and working musician instruments. tune every aspect of his instruments; this Portland, Oregon, where he creates a lim- reputation for singular quality. It is dif- All the wood Bluett uses is air-dried a can be seen in each guitar’s exceptional ited number of high-performance guitars ficult to find an archtop builder who has minimum of 20 years. craftsmanship, tone, clarity, playability, each year for musicians and collectors not, in some manner, been influenced and beauty. around the world. by Benedetto’s work, making his guitars both collectable and inspirational.

Savannah, GA York PA Bay City MI Portland, OR www.benedettoguitars.com www.bluettbros-violins.com www.charisacoustic.com www.ergoguitars.com

10 11 newportguitarfestmb.com newportguitarfestmb.com Charles Freeborn Guitars Collings Guitars Drawing from the world of master wood- Respected as both a master luthier and Craig Lavin Custom Inlay Craig Lavin is a full-time inlay artist Denis Merrill learned how to make Darling Guitars working and furniture making, Charles a genius in engineering, Bill Collings with a special emphasis on marine life. guitars by doing repairs with his grand- Freeborn produces some of the most is one of a handful of luthiers who has His inlays have been commissioned by father in the mid 1960’s. Beginning fine crafted and imaginative works of art been able to make the transition from individual art collectors such as Henry in 1970, he studied finishing with T. in the new golden age of lutherie. Each solo builder to small shop builder. The Lowenstein, Grammy award winning art- Jakobsen, a consultant with the Smith- guitar displays his sense of knowledge addition of CNC technology has helped ists, “rock star” , and musicians sonian. During the 1980’s he founded a of the woods with which he works, and to add a level of consistency and ac- and luthiers around the world, including design company which emphasized the creativity in styling the instrument to curacy to parts production that was Bill Pettaway, George Lowden’s Custom use of carbon fiber and other composite bring the guitar out of the wood, the previously unavailable. As the business Shop, Kinnaird Guitars, John Jordan Vio- materials in consumer sports products, way Rodin pulled his images from the has grown and processes refined, there lins, Keller guitars, Andrew White Guitars, and he applied that knowledge to the stone he worked with. Charles started his is one thing that has not changed...Bill and Johnny Hickman (Cracker), just to guitar. Armed with this background, in work in the 70’s, using whatever materi- Collings’ commitment to building the mention a select few. Craig’s inlays have the 1990’s Denis studied electric and als came his way. Now, more than 30 finest acoustic steel string instruments also been displayed at major museums acoustic guitar making with Richard Sch- years later, 25 of which have also been possible. Bill continues to pursue the old such as the Museum of Making Music, neider, Rick Turner, Ervin Somogyi, Roger spent designing and building unique, lutherie secrets of varnishes, and while and major industry trade shows such , and Bill Chapin. In 2000, fine furniture pieces, he has turned his he has many talented people working as the NAMM show, by independent he studied classical guitar making with life-long passion into a full time profes- for him, his supervision can be sensed on luthiers as well as large companies look- Kenny Hill, Jeff Elliot and Eugene Clark. sion. Recently re-located to Portland OR, every instrument he produces. ing to add style and impression with their Denis’ guitars emphasize traditional he has had the good fortune to befriend His guitars and mandolins are owned custom inlaid instruments vintage sound created by the best in and learn from some of the top builders and played by Keith Richards, Lyle modern ergonomics and technology—all in the world today, which is apparent in Lovett, Pete Townshend, Emmylou Har- at reasonable prices. Using aged woods, the style and quality of his work. ris, Andy Summers, , Joni Denis makes guitars and mandolin Mitchell, Don Felder, John Fogerty, replicas of the Larson Brothers, as well , Joan Baez, John Prine, and as modern instruments owned by a long Steven Spielberg to name a few. You list luminaries. owe it to yourself to try one.

Portland, OR Austin, TX Sunrise FL Tacoma, WA www.charlesfreeborn.com www.collingsguitars.com www.handcraftinlay.com www.darlingguitars.com Collins Guitars Comins Guitars To make classical guitars with a clear and Maintaining a one-on-one association David LaPlante David LaPlante combines a traditional David Taylor primarily builds steel David Taylor Guitars clean treble and rich bass is my passion! with his customers, Bill Comins remains approach and a broad knowledge of string guitars, and basically offers three I start with carefully selected woods from mindful of each instrument’s intended guitar history and aesthetics to produce standard models: the Brescia, De La all over the world. use, and approaches every project with one of a kind signature instruments. Well Rosa, and Parlor. The base price on My climate controlled shop insures that reverence. Producing about 15 instru- known as a restorer of early C.F. Martin all models starts at $2995.00, and de- all guitars built here are stable and will ments per year. Since his work with Bob guitars, his work can be seen at the C.F. pending upon the options selected, the give many years of enjoyment without Benedetto in 1992, Bill has built over Martin Museum, the Farmer’s Museum price increases accordingly from that stress related ailments.My goal is to help 200 custom instruments for interna- in Cooperstown New York and in the point. Building for David came out of a players get the guitar that is just right for tional clientele consisting of numerous volume “C.F. Martin and his Guitars” by clear and precise passion for the art. Al- their playing style or physical needs. professional musicians, educators, and Philip F. Gura. In recent years David has ways fascinated by fine acoustic guitars, collectors. His work has been recog- returned his concentration to the build- David was drawn to the idea of build- In 1977 I attended the Guitar research & nized in trade publications, books, and ing of the Classical guitar. Most recently ing guitars initially by a desire to own design in South Strafford Vermont ran by was included in Scott Chinery’s blue he attended the Jose’ Romanillos course a really fine and unique instrument. Charles Fox and George Morris,the two archtop collection that was displayed in Siguenza Spain to study with the Meeting fellow luthier Tony Vines most famous guitarmaking teachers. I’ve at the Smithsonian’s National Museum world-renowned guitar maker. Noel Paul had an enormous impact on David’s played guitar since the age of 15 and of American History in 1998 . Bill is also Stookey, the “Paul” of Peter, Paul and building process, which has taken on have been making and repairing for routinely sought out by others in the Mary plays a LaPlante, as do many oth- a highly spiritual aspect to it. Drawing 30 years. industry for his expertise in the field ers, including Paul Asbell, who featured from his innate talent for lutherie, Da- and his CAD modeling skills. He has David’s guitar on the cover of his recent vid produces approximately ten guitars All of my classical guitars are built with a recently added several new models to his CD release. per year, and divides his time between Spanish foot making a solid connection product line including a flat top/carved guitar building and ministry work. between neck and body. back steel string, a jazz nylon string, and With years of experience repairing and has recently debuted a new solid body building,I have gained a insight as how electric guitar. Comins also markets a to make great sounding guitars. lightweight, hand wired tube amplifier designed in collaboration with George Alessandro. Argyle, NY Willow Grove, PA Selkirk, NY Rogersville, TN www.collinsguitars.com www.cominsguitars.com [email protected] www.dtguitars.com

12 13 newportguitarfestmb.com newportguitarfestmb.com

deJonge Guitars Balancing structure and classical elegance Mike Doolin has been a professional Doolin Guitars Ebata Guitars Hiro Ebata began making guitars in 1996 Jim Ellsberry is an archtop builder ArchtopEllsberry Guitars in the pursuit of superior tone, Sergei de guitarist for 35 years and a luthier for when he was working as an who draws upon art, design and the Jonge is recognized as a master crafts- 25 years. His background in music electrical engineer in a Japanese company. history of stringed instruments for his man throughout the world. He began performance, software engineering and In the beginning of 2004, approach to guitar making. A fine his career apprenticing with Jean Larrivée graphic arts contribute to the design Ebata quit the company to master a example is his Arch de Lutan model, and for the past 38 years has consistently of instruments which are both highly higher level guitar making and a unique archtop that incorporates a built instruments of the highest caliber. functional and strikingly beautiful. His in- started his new career as an apprentice of centuries-old technique of hand-bend- Innovation plays an important role in struments all feature his double-cutaway master luthier Ervin Somogyi. ing and carving separate wooden strips the evolution of his guitars; each crafted design which provides clear access to all For the next 18 months Ebata studied to create an “arched” top or back. Jim to best suit the distinctive needs of the , his pinless design for easy under him, especially how to says his role as a custom builder is “not individual player, with many of his guitars string changes, and his Adjustable Neck voice a guitar. After this apprenticeship, to imitate, but to create different and adding distinctly unique and modern fea- Angle System which allows easy action Ebata returned to Japan unique instruments that appeal to a tures. Sergei dedicates much of his time adjustment for the life of the instrument. and opened his own shop in the Tokyo broad base of players.” to passing on his knowledge through the Current standard models include Jumbo, area. Now he makes his own style guitar making courses he teaches. Many OM, Dreadnought, Parlor and Classi- guitars based on Somogyi’s voicing of his former students have established cal models; custom instruments include theory and is working to make themselves as successful luthiers. harp guitars, double-necks, acoustic musical instruments of the highest quality. bass guitars and fanned-frets. Mr. Doolin works alone, hand crafting each instru- ment individually, and is highly respect- ed by players and collectors alike.

Quebec Canada Portland, OR Chiba Japan Los Angeles, CA www.dejongeguitars.com www.doolinguitars.com www.ebataguitars.com ww.EllsberryGuitars.com

Dream Guitars Dream Guitars is a high-end guitar bou- Chuck and Cheryl Erickson supply Duke of Pearl EVD String Instruments Edward Victor Dick has been building Frank Verrilli, American born artist, has Frank Verrilli Custom tique located in the beautiful mountains practically the entire guitar industry with custom string instruments for over 30 exhibited in solo shows and selected of Western North Carolina. We specialize pearl and other high quality materi- years. While most have been guitars, he exhibitions since 1989. His work has in the the finest handmade guitars by als (including ABALAM and GRAVLAM, has also built harps, , , dul- appeared at the Museum of Hispanic over 50 of the today’s top luthiers includ- which they patented) for decorating cimers, , and some and Latin American Art, the Miami Art ing Ervin Somogyi, Michael Greenfield, and inlaying guitars, earning their more fantastical pieces he calls sound Museum, the Bridgeport Museum of Marc Maingard, Kathy Wingert, Bill names and reputations as the Duke and sculptures. Recently he has focused his Art, Science and Industry, the Bruce Tippin, Dake Traphagen, Herman Hauser Duchess of Pearl. More importantly, efforts on a hybrid instrument of his Museum, Art Palm Beach, Art Basel III, Ramirez and many more. Shop owner over their five decades of service to the own design that he calls a banjola. It is and Art Miami. He has done numerous Paul Heumiller has performed extensively guitar world, they have developed one a -like, -shaped, banjo- commissions and his work is included and taught master classes around the of the most finely honed understandings necked instrument with a sound some- in both public and corporate collec- world with fingerstylist Martin Simpson of the world of inlay shell products, with where between a guitar and a . tions. Some of these collections include of England. His experience makes him both the ability to recognize talent, and He builds 5 and 6 string, nylon and steel the Miami Science Museum, Nei- uniquely qualified to assist players in to identify and predict the direction of string versions. man Marcus headquarters,, Mandarin finding their ‘Dream Guitar’. We also the art in order to provide it with the Oriental Hotel, and ,the London, offer a number of Dream Series instru- materials it requires to grow and de- and New World Symphonies. Frank ments for players and collectors seeking velop. The current golden age of inlay has ventured from the traditional art the absolute finest instruments being art in guitars is due, in no small part, to world into the world of guitar art. As made today. These Dream Series are the Duke and Duchess and their support a player, his fascination with the guitar limited edition, no compromise designs of the primary artists working today— spilled over into his desire to take his available exclusively at Dream Guitars both new and old. wood carving and sculpture abilities and turn the guitar into his canvas. His fully functioning guitars are reminis- cent of Jasper Johns and early American art from the Southwest.

Green Valley, CA Denver CO Atlanta, GA www.dreamguitars.com www.dukeofpearl.com www.evd303.com www.frankverrilli.com

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Gadotti Guitars In 1997 Jeanfranco Gadotti engaged his Greg German has been a luthier for close German Guitars Hayotuk Guitars Bernard Vachon of Hayotuk Guitars has Charlie Hoffman has been building Hoffman Guitars career into guitar craftsmanship working to a decade. When he began an ap- been a guitar-maker for almost 30 years. guitars professionally since 1971, making for Marcio Benedetti in Sao Paulo – Brazil. prenticeship in instrument repair under A self-taught guitar-minded craftsman, over 520 guitars in that time. He builds Benedetti is one of the most accom- Edward V. Dick, he also began building he perfected his craft working in music 7 different models, each representing plished Luthiers in South America and is archtop guitars at his own shop. As is shops in Montreal and set up his own his creative interpretation of traditional the responsible for giving Jeanfranco Ga- the case with many modern luthiers business in the 90’s. shapes. These include a Small Jumbo, dotti the knowledge and passion for the Greg has a background in computers He conceptualizes, designs and assembles a Dreadnaught, a Slope D, a Concert years to come in guitar building. In 1999 and engineering. His method has been his guitars in his workshop located in model, a OO, a and a Pic- Gadotti met luthier Mark Eshenbaugh influenced by a previous career in 3D Montreal down town, near Place des Arts. colo (Terz). Charlie also builds a Dyer who contributed greately to Jeanfranco as medical animation in that he now uses Always open to new concepts and ideas, style . Several of the shapes wood worker. Arriving in Florida in 2002, a CNC machine (a computer-controlled he allows himself to wander off the beat- are available with a 14 or a 12 neck. Jeanfranco started to find his artistic router) and CAD software to aid in the en track to constantly improve his guitars All are available with a variety of options direction as a mature guitar craftsman. design and construction of his instru- while still respecting traditions. Vachon including cutaways, 12 strings, custom Today building guitars to Jeanfranco Ga- ments. This enables German Guitars to builds a full compliment of guitars, rang- neck sizing, and a wide variety of woods dotti is art expressed thru lines, depths, quickly and easily adapt to requests for ing from flat tops, gypsy jazz guitars, clas- and inlay. Charlie delights in working sound and grain. As a musician, luthier custom features. Greg also has a new sical guitars, and traditional archtops—all with each customer to customize every and artist, Mr. Gadotti has contributed to flattop model in the works that should finely crafted one at a time. element of the guitar so that the instru- the art & music history of the world. be ready for the show. ment is a true reflection of the custom- er’s needs and desires.

Washington, IN Broomfield, CO Montréal-Canada Minneapolis, MN www.gadottiguitars.ws www.germanguitars.com www.hayotuk.ca www.hoffmanguitars.com

Galloup Guitars For over twenty five years, Bryan Galloup Norman Haight continues to use in Haight Guitars Hodges Handcrafted Guitars Ken Hodges is a lifelong musician and John How first started building stringed John How Guitars has done critical repairs and restorations his recordings today, the first guitar woodworker who is gaining a lot of instruments in 1984 with a violin, fol- on many of the world’s finest vintage he built in 1989. Now a seasoned International attention with his hand- lowed soon by a mandolin. He built guitars for museums and private collec- luthier, Norman crafts quality classical crafted guitars. He uses woods from all his first acoustic guitar in 1986 and has tions. This has become a decades-long nylon-string and steel-string guitars and over the world, but the most remarkable never stopped. Residing in Cool, Cali- study of how the “best of the best” mandolins, complementing them with sounding and looking guitars have been fornia, he now builds fingerstyle guitars guitars are constructed, and how their a variety of original designs and inlays. made from that are domestic in three different sizes ranging from unique voices are created. He also repairs and refurbishes any to the U.S.A. He was formally trained in parlor to grand concert, using many stringed instrument. Norman com- lutherie by Frank Finoccio and then took exotic and native woods. In 2004, John Bryan’s understanding of the elements poses, performs, records, teaches, builds those learned skills and combined it with became interested in the ladder braced that create a guitar’s tone means your and repairs guitars and mandolins at his decades of study from other world re- “” guitars that Oscar Schmidt built hand-built Galloup will truly match your studio and shop at Rosewood Weyr, in nowned luthiers to develop his own style in the late 1800’s thru about 1930. playing and your preferences. Assuring the beautiful desert region of Scottsdale, and sound. You can look for some very These guitars are the “real deal” for you of this requires more than good Arizona. He also offers his and other in- innovative guitars coming from his shop , ragtime and old-time music. They building, good wood, and good luck. It dependent luthiers’ instruments for sale in the near future. Some of Ken’s latest are surprisingly responsive and loud for means understanding your playing style at Haight Guitars, the store he owns and commissions have been for Flamenco such small guitars with a very versatile and preferences, and knowing how to operates. His involvement in all aspects guitars and guitars that are purpose built tone. John also now builds an x-braced design a guitar that delivers the sound of the guitar help him better understand for musicians with special requirements version of these little guitars as well as a you’re after. the instrument, its music, and the musi- and needs modern , the FP series, cal needs and desires of his clients. with pervasive sustain, quick response Bryan founded the Galloup School of and tonal complexity. Lutherie in the 1980s to fill the demand for quality craftsman in the growing vintage and high-end guitar market. Today Bryan’s school is an internation- ally recognized training facility preparing luthiers for the future of our trade. Big Rapids, MI Scottsdale, AZ Hilliard Florida Cool, CA www.Galloupguitars.com www.HaightGuitars.com www.hodgesguitars.com www.johnhowguitars.com

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John Walker Guitars John Walker learned the art of building In January of 1989, Jonathan Wilson Jonathan Wilson Designs Guitars Kevin Ryan With a background in Aeroscience John Kingslight began building guitars Kingslight Guitars flat top acoustic guitars at the read an encyclopedia paragraph describ- research, Kevin Ryan has, perhaps, in 1979 in a little town in northern Montana Division where he worked ing the “Arpeggione”; a six string fretted introduced more building techniques New Mexico as an apprentice to John along side master luthier Ren Ferguson cello built by J.G. Stauffer (C.F. Martin’s to the new golden age of lutherie than Dillon. After working on several Dillon to develop the Gibson Montana Custom mentor) in 1823 that was tuned like a any other luthier. Examples include his guitars and becoming skilled in the craft shop. John’s contributions are noted guitar (a bowed guitar!). This was the fingerstyle scale-length (especially suited of lutherie, John built his first guitar, in the publications on Gibson’s flat top epiphany that began Jonathan’s pursuit for alternate tunings and fingerstyle which he still plays. Having completely guitars. Upon leaving the Gibson Mon- of creating his dream instrument. By playing) which produces a lush and rich dedicated himself to lutherie, John now tana Division, John relocated to Seattle 2002 he had perfected his current Toga- and powerful tone and a graceful back creates a full variety of sizes of guitars, Washington, working for Tacoma Guitar, Man Guitar Viols, which have brought arch for comfort, style and projection, the imbuing each with a sense of passion establishing the production facility opera- him acclaim from many sources includ- Ryan Ergonomic Bevel, a micro-adjustable which he considers the primary ingredi- tions as well as the building processes. ing Guitar Player Magazine. Jonathan’s truss-rod/neck stiffening system using a ent to his success as an artist. His guitars John considers himself equally fortunate company, Jonathan Wilson Designs, is differential thread design and the modern also express his understanding of the to have worked with legendary luthier continuing to develop various guitars, UV finish. He was the first to utilize blind instrument as a working and touring Michael Gurian from 1997 through 2000, stringed instruments, guitar viols and radial CNC milling of the fret slots to musician. Between the 70’s and 90’s, where John learned about the manufac- various pickup technologies under the greatly increase the stability and stiffness he toured and recorded five albums and ture of marquetry, rosettes, bridge and TogaMan brand. He builds his unique of the fretboard and the use of the CNC continues to do some studio work. This end pins, hand made specialty files, and instruments full time and moderates a to sculpt his CAD-designed saddle for has given John a great appreciation for modern laser work. Before starting his bowed guitar forum at bowedguitar. ultimate intonation up and down the fret- fine guitars, that play responsively, hold own line of guitars in 2005, John topped com. Jonathan also sees a connection board. His guitars are played by major their tune, are durable and are aestheti- off an extraordinary string of learning between people who love fine instru- artists, including Jackson Browne, Janis cally beautiful in looks as well as sound. experiences with noted archtop builder ments and other fine things, like wines, Ian, Muriel Anderson, Pat Donohue and Steve Andersen. and hopes to pursue that connection in to name just a few. Kevin future endeavors will be doing a seminar at the show on guitar construction.

Alberton, MT San Fernando, Ca. Westminster, CA Portage, Michigan www.johnwalkerguitars.com www.togamanguitars.com www.ryanguitars.com www.kingslightguitars.com Jonathan Plant Guitars Throughout school, Jonathan Plante Julius Borges is a traditionalist. He feels Julius Borges Guitars Kinnaird Guitars Since retirement from teaching 3 years Steve Klein’s guitars are some of the Klein Guitars studied the fundamentals of guitar that trying to “design” guitars without ago, John Kinnaird has been working most sought after and respected instru- design and construction, as well as art understanding what made the mas- full time building instruments, trying to ments in the world of guitar collecting. school curriculum. After earning a Bach- terpieces of the past greatly misses whittle down his waiting list from when His guitars are uniformly resonant and elors of Fine Art in sculpture, he focused the point. Focusing mainly on Martin he was part time, in order to create playable, while combining a high level his efforts on designing and constructing Guitars from the 1930’s, Borges has openings for his own aesthetic ex- of aesthetics. Steve has, in fact, coined elaborate guitars. established an inevitable reputation for perimentation. Prior to that, John spent the phrase “art that sings” to describe his reproduction of the early OM many years perfecting his style, and guitars. Innovative and imaginative, Jonathan’s guitars reflect a pursuit for in particular. unique sound. Building guitars to other Steve’s guitars are constant experimen- unique and aesthetically pleasing designs people’s specifications has stretched his tations with everything from the sound without sacrificing function. Only the fin- Borges attended the Berklee College of design boundaries and taken him into produced by brace work and body est materials are selected for each instru- Music, worked as a professional musi- new designs and concepts he might not form, to the aesthetics of mosaics and ment, taking into account tone as well as cian, and went into cabinetmaking, otherwise have gone. This has had a color on his electric guitars. Combin- figure. Designs are worked on over many earning his journeyman’s certification. good outcome, keeping his work fresh ing Dr. Michael Kasha’s research and conversations with a customer (some- He has dovetailed all this life experi- and open to new ideas from customers. the designs of Richard Schneider, two times over a period of several months). ence to offer you a true concert grade Next year John will pass the 100 mark of the great thinkers in guitar design, instrument. His guitars inspire musicians in number of guitars built, making his Steve has added, in the words of Dick There are no “models” replicated and and recording engineers alike with their guitars rare but collectable. Disregard- Boak of C.F. Martin Guitars, “his own every instrument is carefully hand carved seemingly endless headroom, perfectly ing construction “myths,” John treats incredible and evolving interpretation with chisels and rasps. Jonathan limits his balanced articulation throughout their each guitar individually using tap tones of science, common sense, art, and output to three or four guitars a year in range and (most characteristic of his and chladni patterns to arrive at a consis- precision to the mix.” order to focus on quality and spend the guitars), a stunning wealth of harmonic tently good voice. necessary time to create something truly overtones that seem to ring forever. At unique and personal to each client. this point in his career, he believes he might start designing new models. Ju- lius founded the Newport Guitar festival, mother of all we see today in Miami! Orange Park FL Groton, MA MARS HILL N.C. Sonoma, CA www.plantguitars.com www.borgesguitars.com www.kinnairdguitars.com www.kleinguitars.com

16 17 newportguitarfestmb.com newportguitarfestmb.com McAlister Guitars Lance Kragenbrink builds fine steel Bernie Lehmann has been building guitars Manzer Guitars Linda Manzer has been designing and Let me Tell you about my Hero, Roy Lehman Guitars Kragenbrink Guitars string acoustic guitars. Specializing in since he graduated from Syracuse Univer- building world-class flattop and arch- McAlister....”Jackson Browne contemporary finger style guitars, he sity with a degree in Experimental Design top acoustic guitars since 1974 and she has expanded his line to include both in 1971. He worked for several years with studied with master luthiers Jean Claude “I know plenty of folks who donate lots to 12 and 14 fret dreadnoughts. master luthier Owen Shaw in Boston be- Larrivée and the late James D’Aquisto. charity, and god bless ‘em all for it. But fore establishing his own shop in Roches- Her creative journey has given birth to what Roy did was really extraordinary. He Lance builds his guitars to have ter, NY in 1977. Bernie likes making one many cutting edge innovations including made a mission of saving one total strang- smooth continuous lines, classy under- of a kind instruments and has made over in 1984, the “Wedge” ™, an ergonomic er’s life -- just some kid that he saw on the stated appointments, ‘with a “less is 400 unique stringed instruments includ- tapered guitar body shape originally local news who, in all likelihood, was go- more’ approach. ing lutes, vihuelas, mandolins, rebecs and designed for the renowned 42-stringed ing to die of leukemia. And he didn’t just vielles. He is currently building several Pikasso guitar and available on all models donate a guitar [the sale proceeds of one His guitars express impeccable fit and models of classical, steel string, arch top, since. Other interesting instruments of his top of the line models, actually]. He finish, a rich, full balanced sound with and gypsy style guitars. This broad based include the sitar guitar, the fretless nylon reached out to so many people for help, it an authoritative clarity and comment understanding of stringed instrument and harp guitars in a vari- was unbelievable. to perfection. history and construction allows him to ety of original configurations. bring diverse elements together in new Many discerning musicians including And the best part -- it worked! Thanks to ways. Experimentation has always been Pat Metheny, Bruce Cockburn, Milton Roy, and many other “friends” of the Reed an important aspect of Bernie’s work. He Nascimento, Carlos Santana and Julian family [AKA Team TJ], TJ got the stem cells feels that the guitar is still young in it’s Lage play her instruments. Her guitars he needed and lived to tell the tale. You’ll development and the guitar of the future have been displayed in the Smithsonian, never catch Roy tooting his is in the hands of the individual luthiers Washington D.C.; the Museum of Fine own about it in public, but I know today. The Lehmann Model 2000 flat- Arts, Boston and the Museum of Civiliza- that’s got to feel pretty damn top is just such an amalgam of ancient tion, Canada. good!” That’s our Roy and modern ideas coming together to Manzer strives to complement her client’s create a steel string guitar with a unique musical expression with the finest instru- McAllister Guitars on Display at Luthier’s aesthetic and voice. ment possible. Pride Table

Vandercook Lake, Mi Rochester, NY Toronto, Ontario, Canada www.kragenbrinkguitars.com www.Lehmannstrings.com www.manzerguitars.com www.luthierspride.com Lucas Custom Instruments MacCubbin Guitars Larry Lashbrook is a passionate inven- Randy Lucas began his career as a me- David MacCubbin started his lutherie Brent McElroy is not a builder in the ‘sci- McElroy Guitars

Lashbrook Guitars, LLC tor and revolutionary at heart. As one chanical designer, and then very rapidly career in 2002, building his first guitar entific’ camp, but neither is he a totally of South Florida’s most respected Master moved into the repair and restoration of using William Cumpiano’s text as his ‘intuitive builder’. When it comes to the Luthiers, Larry has over 40 years experi- guitars in 1988. Randy, and many other guide. He was afforded the opportu- overall design and artistic touches – his ence performing set-ups and repairs and luthiers, often remark that there is no nity to study with William in 2003 at art training & background influences his making high-end, hand built, custom better way to reproduce a fine instru- his Northampton, Massachusetts shop, intuition in the selection of the individual guitars. He has worked with hundreds ment than repairing hundreds of pre-war where he learned many of the finer woods for each guitar, but Brent’s under- of professional musicians, most notably, Martin and Gibson guitars, and Randy points of the craft. Since that time,. standing of structural mechanics and the , with whom Larry has invested hundreds of hours in analyzing Dave has also had the good fortune to properties of wood influences the overall a strong working relationship spanning these types of instruments as he restored be able to attend Ervin Somogyi’s guitar shape, bracing and design of the guitar. nearly two decades. them. For the past ten years, he has voicing master class in 2007, where he Brent uses Cumpiano’s theory in bracing focused on building traditional models gained much greater insight into the which he has tailored to maximize the Like many Luthier’s, he began by building of vintage guitars, using Adirondack red relationships among choice of woods, tone he wants while maintaining strong classic designs popular to the era. His first spruce almost exclusively for the tops and top bracing patterns, construction tech- structural integrity. Cumpiano’s theory models were reminiscent of Gibson’s 335, braces of his guitars. Believing that gui- niques, and their effects on the resultant (which Brent believes is of the Gurian and he also built style solid bod- tars which are sixty years old have stood sound and response of the guitar. Dave camp) was the one that made complete ies, but he incorporated his own innova- the test of time, Randy emulates both the builds 10 to 12 guitars annually. He has sense to him given his background in tions in hardware, materials, and set-up materials and designs of pre-war instru- teamed up with noted inlay artist Craig woodworking and my experience in technique. His passion for building guitars ments to provide a lasting heirloom, with Lavin on a project to benefit the Chesa- structural design. In the end, the guitars continued to grow, as did his knowledge individual qualities for each customer. peake Bay’s ecology. he produces are traditional in appear- and steady stream of customers. ance, masterful in finish, and provide The LTH-1, Lashbrook’s first production musicians with a balanced tone that is model is the culmination of his thorough distinctly McElroy’s. knowledge of the instrument, countless years of R&D and his tenacious, inventor’s spirit. It may well be the perfect guitar!

Ft. Lauderdale, FL Columbus, IN Cockeysville, MD Seattle, WA www.lashbrookguitars.com www.lucasguitars.com www.maccubbinguitars.com www.mcelroyguitars.com

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McKnight Guitars The husband and wife team of Tim and Rich Mermer, Jr. has been designing, Mermer Guitars Monteleone Guitars Recognized as being one of the finest Schooled at an early age in woodwork- Mortoro Guitars Mary McKnight is one of the guitar building, and repairing fretted string living archtop guitar and mandolin mak- ing, Gary Mortoro combined his family’s world’s best collaborative success stories. instruments since 1983. ers in the world today, John Monteleone interest in engineering with his own love Mary’s responsibilities with guitar aesthet- has been at the forefront of innovative Jazz. His formal education in science ics and customer service compliment Rich’s usually completes from 10 - 12 in- cutting-edge archtop instrument making shows in the precision of his work as an Tim’s impeccable building skills. Their struments each year. These instruments for many years. His uniquely designed archtop guitar builder. Under the guid- motto, “Tradition with Innovation” is are handcrafted works of art that are instruments are the essence of artistic ance of master luthier Robert Benedetto, more than words. The relative simple built to the specifications of the client. expression, reflected in the subtle but Gary learned the nuances of archtop elegance of their guitar’s appearance on Many artists are using Rich’s instruments challenging marriage of form and func- design and construction. As a player, the outside belies four extremely sophis- in the studio and in live performance. tion. Pushing the envelope for more than Gary has a sense for how a guitar should ticated features happening on the inside Rich’s instruments have been featured in thirty years with his refreshingly new and feel. His formal training and intuitive of the guitar-- Double Sides, Double the books, Custom Guitars: A Complete elegant designs, and producing instru- understanding of the music that will be Tops, Side Sound Ports and Hollow Backs. Guide to Contemporary Handcrafted ments of great tonal expression is one of created on his instruments, have made These unusual and technically difficult Guitars (String Letter Publishing, 2000); John’s missions in life. A dedication to them highly popular amongst working features allow McKinight guitars to have and Lap Steel Guitar (Centerstream the refined harmonic balances of tone musicians throughout the country. They a flexibility of sounds and intonations Publishing, 2003). They have also been and playability is the central nucleus of are ubiquitous on recordings, on concert using the woods of a customer’s choice featured in the articles, Guitar 2000: the structural foundation around which stages, and on television. They can and geared toward a customer’s playing Today’s State of the Art, Tomorrow’s he often introduces the more interest- be seen on stage with George Benson, style. The McKnights also use a panoply Innovations (Acoustic Guitar Magazine, ing accents and playful nature of original Jimmy Buffett, Tony Bennett, Lena Horne of unusual woods including Shag Bark August 1998, Issue 68); and in The and beautiful art. Although John offers a and on television programs such as Hickory, Osage Orange and Black Locust. Holey Grail: Why Leading Guitar Makers line of standard high-end instruments he Conan O’Brien and Rosie O’Donnell, to A joyful noise indeed! Are Rethinking Traditional Soundhole is also well known for his one-of-a kind name a few. Design (Acoustic Guitar Magazine, Feb- extravagantly individualized and prized ruary 1999, Issue 74). custom works of musical art.

Morral, OH Sebastian, FL Islip, N Y Miami, FL www.McKnightguitars.com www.mermerguitars.com www.monteleone.net www.mortoroguitars.com Michael Keller O.C. Bear Custom Gutars Michael Keller began building guitars By the age of eleven, Cristian Mirabella Mirabella Guitars Clint Bear says, “the wood determines Oriskany Guitars are the collaborative Oriskany Guitars in 1975 under the guidance of Master began an apprenticeship with one of what kind of a guitar it will become. The effort of luthiers Johanna Mutti and luthier Jeffery Elliott. During his first year the leading repair and restoration shops soul of wood has to be let out to let it Curtis Rockwell. Since 2001, Johanna as a guitar maker , he had the pleasure on the East Coast. The apprenticeship sing”. and Curtis have specialized in steel string of meeting Jimmy D’Aquisto ,Richard would last close to fifteen years, offer- acoustics, offering guitars customized to Schneider and Robert Lundberg, who ing him the opportunity to study and After more than 35 years of jewelry the needs and desires of the individual helped start Michael on his path. He es- work the guitars of John D’Angelico, making, woodworking, cabinetmaking, player. With emphasis on building guitars tablished his own studio two years later James D’Aquisto, Elmer Stromberg and homebuilding, life’s accumulated for the fingerstyle and rhythm player, building custom 6 and 12 string acoustic as well as golden era . It was experiences led to guitar building in the luthiers use a wide variety of care- guitars, with a flair for modern interpre- these instruments that would later 2001. Though Clint has 6 basic body fully selected traditional and alternative tations of contemporary designs. inspire his very own. Cristian began styles, each guitar is a unique instrument tonewoods. Braces are hand carved to Mirabella Guitars & Restorations Inc. both in aesthetics and sound. Tone and capture the greatest tonal potential of Keller has contributed articles and pho- in 1997. Now at the age of thirty six, playability are the primary focus along each piece of wood. Necks too, are hand tos to American Luthier Magazine , and Cristian has over twenty five years of ex- with the natural beauty of wood. Clint’ carved and matched to the appropriate has been featured in The Blue Book of perience and is possibly one of the last, s designs are grounded in the historic widths and scale lengths to Acoustic Guitars, Acoustic Guitar Maga- as well as one of the only young luthiers American guitars of the early to mid insure the greatest degree of comfort zine, The Fretboard Journal, and many to have been schooled in a traditional 1900’s but are constantly evolving to and playability. With meticulous fret work other publications. Over the 33 years form of apprenticeship. His archtop create the perfect instrument. and particular attention paid to set up, of Michael’s guitar building career he guitars and mandolins are meticulously Oriskany Guitars are known for their play- has shown his work in some of the most handcrafted for every client with the “Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar, ability. Visually, Oriskany Guitars have a prestigious venues in America. Buster B. highest tradition of artistry. save perhaps two.” –Frederick Chopin simple and elegant appearance, empha- Jones went on record to say, “ Michael sizing the natural beauty of the woods Keller made the finest guitar I have ever with natural wood binding and purfling held in my hands!” No small praise to add contrast and define the graceful from one of the finest guitar players in curves of the guitars. Johanna and Curtis the world! build about 12 guitars a year out of their Huntingdon, Pennsylvania locale. Rochester, MN Babylon, NY Madison, Indiana Huntingdon, PA www.kellerguitars.com www.mirabellaguitars.com www.ocbearguitars.com www.oriskanyguitars.com

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Paragon Guitars Born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, Ken Parker’s life-long passion has been Ken Parker Archtops Poling Guitars Brock Poling specializes in building Tim Reede studied Archtop construction Reede Guitars Rob Bustos began his career as a luthier the archtop guitar, which he is now high-end acoustic flat-top guitars from under violin maker John Reed, and stud- in 1993, applying woodworking skills reinventing in his newest guitar compa- his studio in Columbus Ohio. Using only ied finishing and electric guitar construc- he acquired as an apprentice cabinet- ny. Having worked with the late Jimmy the finest materials available and giving tion under Brian Boedigheimer. Com- maker in his father’s shop to electric D’Aquisto and some of the world’s top meticulous attention to even the smallest pleting his education, Tim studied flat guitar making. players in New York, Ken has a good detail, Brock’s guitars are known for their top acoustic guitar construction under understanding of what the ideal archtop tonal clarity and aesthetic clarity, making David Vincent. In 1995, Rob began working for a world- should be. His previous project, which the most out of form and function. Brock renowned acoustic guitar building fac- resulted in the world-famous Parker Fly is one of up and coming builders of the Tim’s mission is to create unique, one-of- tory where he learned much of his trade. Electric Solid Body Guitar, was chosen golden age of the guitar. a-kind instruments that are of the highest As part of the R+D team, Rob played a as a live performance instrument by Joni quality and have superior sound.. He key role in production and implementing Mitchell, and many others as uses techniques such as a dovetail neck/ new manufacturing methods. well as being in the permanent collec- body joint, hide glue and scalloped X tions of the Smithsonian Institute, the bracing to accomplish this. The guitar is Eager to progress, Rob left the factory in Experience Music Project, and the Bos- a complex object and it is important to 1998 to form the partnership of Haida ton Museum of Fine Arts. Ken rethought look to the past to learn what has worked Gwaii Guitars with three other luthiers. and optimized every component and and build from that knowledge. Some of Over the next four years, Rob honed system in the Fly. He brought new the instruments that Tim makes are cre- his lutherie skills as a member of Haida materials and processes to guitar making ated specifically for an individual. The size Gwaii, and in 2002, re-formed the and is now bringing that approach to his and features can be chosen for a one-of- company, as it’s known today--Paragon acoustic archtop guitar, which is power- a-kind guitar that reflects the customer’s Guitars. ful, rich, sensitive and responsive. playing style and aesthetics.

Today, Rob is a solo builder, crafting an average of 20 to 25 instruments per year for private customers and select stores.

North Vancouver BC Garnerville, NY Dublin, OH Minneapolis, MN www.paragonguitars.com www.kenparkerarchtops.com www.polingguitars.com www.reedeguitars.com Paris Banchetti Guitars Randall Kramer Paris Banchetti has been an icon of South Bruce Petros has been building guitars Petros Guitars Randall “Sparky”Kramer, now 56 , Tom Ribbecke is acknowledged as the Ribbecke Guitars Florida lutherie and lore for almost four since 1972. His son Matthew has been has played guitar and mandolin since modern day Stradivari of guitars. He has decades. Born in Italy but trained in building full time since the year 2000. his early teens. His career as a luthier been building and repairing guitars and Spain as a master luthier, Paris is one of The Petros boys strive to squeeze out ev- began when he met guitarmaker Mark basses since 1975. He started with a those rare old world craftsmen one only ery possible bit of tone through inspira- Blanchard in the mid-90’s. He built a repair shop in the Mission District of San expects to find down a hidden street in tional, innovative and non-conventional guitar one on one with Mark, and with Francisco, but after ten years (and hun- Madrid. Word of mouth creates lines of thinking and techniques. Bruce and some coaching through a few more, dreds of repairs) he closed the storefront musicians waiting to give him everything Matt create about 30 guitars per year, added guitarmaking to his resume. He to concentrate on custom building. from guitars to violins and upright bases and are played and collected by a wide now completes 8-10 guitars per year. Tom’s instruments are built from the for repair—a skill in which he is unparal- variety of customers. Their instruments Clients are welcome to visit his shop in finest materials, with the most innova- leled—but his real reputation is amongst have won many accolades from the the Lake Tahoe, CA area, to plan a guitar tive designs and have been on display guitarists. While his patented upright press, appearing on the front covers or see their guitar in progress. A fine se- in museums such as the Smithsonian electric bass is an instrument of modern of magazines and being the subject lection of tonewoods is always on hand Museum and the Boston Museum. He imagination, his classical guitars are of many articles on fine guitars. The to choose from. helped found the Healdsburg Guitar works of art sought after by musicians popularity of their instruments speaks to Some guiding principles at Randall Kram- Festival and he served 10 years on the seeking traditional qualities of the finest their consistent quality and their ability er Guitars are that an acoustic guitar board of A.S.I.A (Association of Stringed traditions of Spain. With stockpiles of to build guitars to the needs of their should be beautiful, inspirational, a joy Instrument Makers). Tom’s innovations the finest woods, Paris creates Classical customers. to play, a pleasure to hear, and crafted to and designs have culminated in the Rib- and Flamenco guitars. become a family heirloom. becke Guitar Corporation (RGC) and its Halfling™ technology—which blends a flat bass side top with an arched treble side for a unique sound response.

Miami FL Kaukauna, WI Truckee, CA Healdsburg – CA www.parisbanchettiguitars.com www.petrosguitars.com randallkramerguitars.com www.ribbecke.com

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Robinson Inlay Larry Robinson started to learn to build The accelerated popularity of Rod Schenk Guitars Siesta Key Guitars, Inc. For the last Fifteen (15) years David Erich Solomon began building arch- Solomon Guitars guitars in 1972, serving a three-year ap- Schenk’s guitars is a direct result of his Bland has been repairing, building, and top guitars when he was seventeen prenticeship with a luthier in Ct. After fastidious design and construction. Rod customizing both Electric and Acoustic years old, after seeing a picture of a moving to California in 1975heI learned now boasts one of the most techno- Guitars. He has studied with Master D’Angelico New Yorker on the cover of a how to inlay during his tenure at several logically advanced guitar shops in the Luthiers such as Greg Back, Buzz Feiten, vintage guitar magazine. small electric guitar companies. In industry as well as the finest designed Harry Fleishman ,Ervin Somogyi, Sylvan Erich currently builds 8-12 exceptional 1984 Larry decided to specialize in and constructed truss-rod system in the Wells and Richard & Marshall Brune. Five archtop guitars a year. Although, he inlaying musical instruments, and has history of guitar making. These elements years ago David incorporated his lutherie initially started off building traditional been only doing that ever since. Larry’s combined are grabbing the attention business, and formed Siesta Key Guitars, 17” cutaway f-hole models, he has, over customers range from individual luthiers of some of the finest players and artists Inc. “S.K.G.” is now a full time, luthiery time, developed his own unique style of to international corporations as well in the world. Schenk Guitars is proud to operation, building, repairing, and building. The Solomon guitar trademark as private guitar owners who want to have a growing lineup of A-list players customizing both electric and acoustic is a trinity knot and the three sections add something to their favorite guitar. including Michael Chapdelaine, Franco instruments. of the knot represent: the materials, the Whether it’s a signature on the 12th fret Morone, Alan Thornhill and Nashville’s While David appreciates the value of builder, and the player. Erich knows or a full treatment museum piece, every finest session players: Mark Casstevens, inlay work, since it does not add sonically that each one depends on the others to job deserves and gets Larry’s complete Kerry Marx and Martin Young. to the instrument in anyway he focuses truly bring the instrument to life. Erich attention, despite the fact that he is his efforts on developing the instrument is focused on bringing art, science and now widely considered one of the Schenk Guitars have accompanied on itself, taking great pride in the tone, play- magic together to make musical tools world’s top artists. Larry is still just as stage or in studio top artists including: ability, and intonation of the guitar. David that will inspire and bring out the best in interested in inlaying as he was back in , Huey Lewis, Trisha Year- uses exotic woods from all over the world every player. He is considered one of the 1975, with new challenges every year. wood, , , and keeps a large selection on hand. finest young archtop makers in the new Kelly Pickler, , , golden age of lutherie. Trace Atkins, , Raul Malo, , , , and .

Valley Ford, Ca. Silverdale, WA Siesta Key FL Epping – NH www.robinsoninlays.com www.schenkguitars.com www.siestakeyguitars.com www.solomonguitars.com RS Muth Guitars Strobel Guitars An explorer at heart, Randy Muth is Don Sharp began building handmade Sharp Custom Guitars The Strobel Folding Guitar is a custom Born in Toyama, Japan in 1965, Sugita Sugita Kenji Acoustic Guitars constantly experimenting and develop- guitars in 1988. Since this great mile- built, professional executive travel guitar Kenji has been building guitars for 24 ing new ideas toward achieving that stone, Don began building more and that comes apart in less than two min- years. After high school, Kenji worked ever-elusive “perfect” sound in his more guitars, constantly refining his utes; no tools required. Assembly is just and studied under Chai Yukinobu for 6 guitars. In this exploration, Randy looks craft and defining his unique sound. as easy, simply reverse the process. years. The neck joints uniquely character- back as well forward and chooses to Don is primarily self-taught although ize his guitars. His neck heel is extremely incorporate design concepts from the he did study under others, including Invented and patented by Russ Strobel, lessened by his original arrangement of Spanish masters in his work. Some clas- respected luthier. Today, some of his the Rambler™ enables the traveling a Spanish method that unifies the body sic features include the Spanish foot and inspiration stems from the works of musician to bring their guitar as carry-on with the neck. This construction vastly the V-jointed , as well as other master luthiers such as James Olson, luggage. improves playability at a higher position. traditional aspects of construction and Ervin Somogyi, James Goodall, and Marc Located in Boca Raton, Florida, the Nakagawa Isato, an authority of Japanese design. Randy also enjoys exploring the Maingard , although most comes from Strobel Guitar Company began manu- finger style guitar, and Gogo Satoshi, the tonal palette of a variety of woods. his head and the world around him. facturing in 2003, with a new series of MVP of the 2004 Finger Picking Contest If you ask Don what tone he works guitars produced annually. Customers in Japan, use his guitars. Randy designs and builds every custom to achieve with his guitars, he’ll tell have their choice of exotic tone woods guitar to meet the player’s needs for you, “refined with extra sparkle.” He and finish colors, as well as neck shape tone, playability and aesthetics. Randy achieves this through his experiences: and choice of fret board. Strobel guitars has been building steel string guitars for building guitars for himself and oth- come standard with dual humbucking five years and now offers three models, ers, playing and listening to guitars of Schaller Golden 50 pickups, Schaller the S14 (concert), the S15 (orchestra), today’s top luthiers, and through lessons locking tuners, a Schaller Tune-O-Matic and the S16 (small junbo) to meet his learned from them. bridge, and tone and volume controls. client’s needs. Customer initials are also included as inlay. Several options are available such as coil tapping and an on board preamp.

Hamilton, NY Auburn – AL Boca Raton, FL Shimohori, Japan www.rsmuthguitars.com www.sharpguitars.com www.strobelguitars.com www.sugitakenji.com

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Tippin Guitars With a background in furniture making Blending what he considers to be the Todd Lunneborg Guitars Voyage-air Guitars Harvey Leach has built over 350 guitars Originally renowned for the musical William “Grit” Lasking Guitars and boat building, Bill Tippin is well- best aspects of traditional custom guitar as well as a few banjos and mandolins. In craftsmanship, William “Gritt” Laskin versed in the art of fine craftsmanship building with a progressive and multi- 2003 Harvey began developing an idea later also became widely respected for and has built his own guitars since 1978. influenced design approach, Todd Lun- that he hoped would simplify traveling the extraordinarily detailed inlay work He constructs each guitar with the fin- neborg is finally building instruments that with a quality guitar. The result is Voyage- he created on his instruments, as well est wood available, the finest hardware make him smile air Guitar, the first full-sized full-featured as innovations ranging from rib and and to his exacting standards. For many travel guitar. The name “Voyage-air” arm rests to sound ports. Self-taught years Bill stayed with a more traditional His education as a luthier started in actually came from the “Star Trek” TV se- as an artist, Grit is the only non- style of guitar building. In more recent eighth grade as a repair apprentice at a ries. In 2007 Harvey formed a partnership painter to receive the Saidye Bronfman years, he has created 4 original designs mom and pop shop in the middle of Min- with noted guitar collector Jeff Cohen Award for Excellence In The Crafts, (Staccato, Crescendo, Bravado, and Bari- nesota. He has served as a tour tech for and Voyage-air Guitar Inc. was born. the highest honor given for artwork in tone) that have been well received by Billy McLaughlin, studied fingerstyle tech- Harvey Leach is considered to be one of Canada, while his guitars can be seen those seeking fine hand crafted musical nique with John Stropes, palled around the top inlay artists in the world, having in Canada’s Museum of Civilization— instruments. Bill is eager to explore new the greater acoustic guitar universe with produced museum quality guitar inlays Canada’s equivalent of the U.S.’s Smith- ideas for the future of Tippin Guitars. Michael Gulezian, and has written for the for major companies such as PRS and sonian. Featured in film and radio, and His guitars are light, responsive, load Fretboard Journal. Martin Guitars, as well as a host of top magazines as diverse as Acoustic Guitar and highly playable, making them some hand-builders, including his own guitars. and the Robb Report, Grit is also an ac- of the most sought after instruments in He has benefited from time spent loiter- Harvey’s innovative travel guitars and his complished musician with 3 solo CD’s their category. ing in all of Minnesota’s custom guitar amazing inlays will both be on display at to his credit. In the end, however, the makers shops such as Michael Keller. the show. Laskin name is synonymous with the Todd’s acoustics draw their origins, penultimate combination of musical shapes, and traditions from the custom instrument and inlay art, perhaps the builders in Minnesota and his electrics most collectable of guitar makers are an ergonomic blend of his favorite electric instrument builders.

Boston, MA Andover, MN Livermore CA Toronto, Ontario, Canada www.tippinguitars.com www.tlguitars.com www.voyageairguitar.com www.williamlaskin.com Tom Doerr Guitars Woolson Sondcraft Guitars Since 2001 Tom Doerr has been crafting Victor Baker holds a BA from Berklee Victor Baker Guitars It was his love of woodworking, com- To Yusuke Kawakami, building guitars is Y. Kawakami Guitars fine acoustic guitars out of the college and spends almost as much time bined with his love of design, that led not just a job, but his pride and passion. highest quality materials available. The playing as he does building Paul Woolson to lutherie. After studying As a big fan of the Beatles and Deep result is instruments with breathtaking jazz guitars. For over a decade he has with the legendary Charles Fox, Paul Purple from an early age, he began his beauty derived from the patterns of the been producing guitars geared toward settled in Wisconsin to practice his pas- luthier training under his father, a master wood itself. In his Michigan shop, Tom people like himself—jazz guitar junkies sion as an independent builder. Specializ- luthier at K.Yairi Guitars (company employs his master craftsmanship and who want an archtop guitar which is ing in Double-Top guitar design, Paul will founded by his grandfather in 1936). In utilizes the most modern techniques to as responsive as it is beautiful. Victor’s be exhibiting two of his finest 6-string 1999, he moved to Vancouver and joined create an instrument of superior tone custom guitars are immaculately built guitars and one 12-string guitar, all of Larrivee Guitar to further advance his and quality. He offers 4 body styles for each player making use of Victor’s Double-Top construction. Included are, skills. In 2002, Yusuke settled in Vancou- and uses a wide variety of wood com- extensive professional experience as a LP-Parlour, LG (small bodied 00 size), ver permanently and established his own binations to empower the body styles player and his unusual talent as a luthier. and SIG 12 string. Paul Woolson’s guitars company. Now he creates fine crafted with unique qualities which meet each His hope is to build a creative and inter- are very much in demand, so having the guitars and ukuleles at his workshop in player’s needs. What excites Tom is to esting community structured around his opportunity to compare a number of his North Vancouver, using the best local work with the customer and to find out guitars and the people who play them. instruments together in one place materials such as spruce in ideal moisture all of their interests in the guitar, rang- Nonetheless, his guitars are attracting condition. ing from its tone and playability, to its interest from collectors and players alike. appearance, and to ultimately create the guitar of their dreams.

Saginaw, MI Philadelphia PA Madison, WI Shimohori, Japan www.doerrguitars.com www.victorbaker.com www.woolsonsoundcraft.com www.sugitakenji.com

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