In the early days of my journey into lutherie, I stumbled upon a local band where the haunting melodies of a steel guitar transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary. But was it a lap steel or a pedal steel? That question sent me down a path of discovery, learning to differentiate between these two captivating … Read more
Is it possible for a musical instrument to redefine your artistic journey? For me, the Duesenberg lap steel guitar has done just that, unveiling a world of sonic possibilities and transforming my relationship with music. The first time I ran my fingers over its unique fretboard, I felt an undeniable connection — as if this … Read more
Did you know that a staggering 80% of professional musicians have experimented with a thinline acoustic guitar at some point in their careers? Yet, what truly sets these thin body guitars apart is not just their sleek physique but the extraordinary blend of comfort and sound they offer. With nearly three decades of experience in … Read more
It was in the dim light of a Mississippi blues club that I first encountered the Washburn parlor guitar—its slender frame cradled in the hands of a musician whose every note told a story older than the room itself. That night, the transcendent allure of this compact instrument became clear, sparking a fascination that would … Read more
Introduction to the Fender Swinger Imagine strumming a guitar designed as an afterthought, yet sparking *a quiet revolution in sound and style*. That’s the allure of the Fender Swinger—an often overlooked gem in Fender’s storied lineup. This quirky model, with its unconventional shape and mysterious origins, has managed to carve a niche in both history … Read more
There’s a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the guitar world, often overlooked yet steadily making waves: Canadian guitar brands. Just imagine—decades ago, in a modest workshop in Quebec, a small team of passionate craftsmen embarked on a journey to create guitars that would rival their more famous counterparts. The rest, as they say, … Read more
Introduction to F-Hole Acoustic Guitars Imagine strumming an acoustic guitar that resonates not only with vibrant melodies but also with a rich, intricate tonal tapestry. As a seasoned luthier, I’ve discovered that the *f-hole design* holds the key to this profound musical transformation. Shaped like elegant f’s carved into the body, these sound holes do … Read more
It’s the final note in a legendary jam session, my fingers dancing skillfully across the bass. Suddenly, the question arises: how many strings should truly shape this moment? This isn’t just about tradition; it’s about crafting an experience. With nearly three decades in instrument design, I’ve seen how the choice between four, five, or even … Read more
The moment I first heard the distinct, haunting hum of a resonator guitar, my perspective on string instruments changed forever. I found myself standing at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, with the dobro on one side and the steel guitar on the other, each with its own unique allure. This journey into the rich … Read more
Introduction to Larrivée Parlor Guitars Ever since my first encounter with a Larrivée parlor guitar in a dimly lit Seattle music shop, I’ve been enamored by their unparalleled craftsmanship and resonant sound. These seemingly modest instruments conceal a depth of character that rivals even the most esteemed full-sized guitars—a truth that becomes evident with just … Read more