Bio

I design and build every instrument by hand.

Each one is a singularly individual piece of fine art. I work in the spirit of pre-industrial artisanship, where a skilled master is responsible for every choice. I survive by the quality of my instruments, and by the quality of the relationships I build with my clients.

I've worked with wood for more than twenty years, across a diverse array of projects — the experiences, and designs, translated medium to medium.

I've replicated American Indian warclubs, and hand-planed dovetailed furniture from the 18th century. I apprenticed six years to a master contemporary cabinetmaker. I've built custom yachts. I've even built a home for architect Michael Graves.

The one constant has been lutherie.

I built my first guitar in 1985. Many more have followed, each building on the last. Designs drawn from lessons learned through my diverse project set — and from playing or repairing the work of inspirational luthiers: Philip Kubiki, Rob Allen, Ned Steinberger, among others.

What matters most, what has influenced me most, has simply been to play music. As a luthier, I've learned lutherie from exploring what I like (and don't) as a musician.

Design. Play. Refine.