Explore every episode of the podcast Luthier on Luthier with Michael Bashkin
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| 108: Fred Carlson | 30 Nov 2025 | 01:01:55 | |
On this episode of Luthier on Luthier, I talk with the endlessly creative Fred Carlson. Fred shares his path into instrument making—from early sculptural dulcimers with mentor Ken Ripartella, to studying with Charles Fox, to building in communal workshops surrounded by musicians, woodworkers, and fellow artists. Fred also shares his thoughts on inspiration and reflects on appreciating a charmed life. Link: https://www.fredcarlsoncreativeluthier.com/ | |||
| 107. Rory Dowling (Taran Guitars) | 01 Nov 2025 | 00:54:21 | |
For Episode 107 of the Luthier on Luthier podcast, I'm joined by Rory Dowling, the owner and builder behind the beautifully crafted Taran Guitars. https://www.taranguitars.co.uk Rory talks about his team-based approach to building and his journey from furniture design to guitar making. We also take a deep dive into his unique methods for back bracing and voicing...and much more. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 98. Gary Southwell (Southwell Guitars) | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:53:29 | |
For episode 98 of the podcast, I am joined by renowned classical guitar maker Gary Southwell. Based on the banks of the River Rede in Northumberland, England, Southwell has been building instruments since 1983. Gary and I talk about the unique characteristics of Bog Oak, the history and influence of 19th-century Viennese guitars, his interactions with Julian Bream, and some reflections on 50 years of guitar making. https://www.southwellguitars.co.uk/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds.
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| 8. John Slobod (Circa Guitars) | 14 Aug 2017 | 01:11:34 | |
For our eighth episode, I talk to luthier John Slobod. John shares his thoughts on why vintage guitars sound the way they do, and how he honors them in his own Martin-inspired instruments. We also go through John's journey from working with Dana Bourgeois and later with Julius Borges before starting his own Circa guitars. In this interview, John also offers some valuable advice to new luthiers. Links: http://www.circaguitars.com https://bourgeoisguitars.net http://www.timelessinstruments.com http://www.borgesguitars.com | |||
| 7. Live from the 2017 GAL Convention | 27 Jul 2017 | 01:00:50 | |
Our seventh episode of the Luthier on Luthier podcast is a little different from the rest. Rather than interview one builder, I have shorter interviews with several luthiers. Each of these interviews took place at the 2017 GAL (Guild of American Luthiers) Convention in Tacoma, Washington. During this podcast, you will hear from Dan Erlewine, Erick Coleman, Chelsea Clark, Jeffery Elliott, Chris Herrod, Steve Marchione, Don Macrostie, Evan Gluck and many others. You'll also hear an adventurous tale of buffing from Harry Fleishman. If your into lutherie and have the chance to attend a guild meeting, I highly recommend it. There were a lot more people I would have liked to talk to but I just ran out of time. I know a lot of guitar builders listen to this podcast and it was great to meet so many of you in person, too. Links: http://www.danerlewine.com/ | |||
| 6. Michi Matsuda | 21 Jun 2017 | 00:53:25 | |
On Episode 6, I sit down with world-renown guitar maker Michi Matsuda. Originally from Japan and now living in the US, Michi is known for his inventive designs and craftsmanship. We stay mostly in the head-space of guitar making and talk about what is the identity of a guitar and how it affects music. And, I was surprised to learn how free-spirited Michi's approach to guitar making is. | |||
| 5. Dave Bruzza (Greensky Bluegrass) | 17 May 2017 | 00:50:19 | |
On this month's podcast, I sit down with Dave Bruzza, lead guitarist of the contemporary band Greensky Bluegrass. We follow his career path from an aspiring luthier in Michigan all the way to his career today as a successful professional guitar player. We also dig into his guitar quiver and discuss what he values in each of his acoustics. Bruzza's on-stage gear is ever evolving, which he also discusses. We end up discussing his musical influences, heroes and musical outlook in this detailed interview. Links Mentioned: Support Luthier on Luthier via its Patreon page or purchase a Luthier on Luthier t-shirt here.
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| 4. John Bogdanovich | 19 Apr 2017 | 01:32:19 | |
On episode 4 of the Luthier on Luthier podcast, I interview classical guitar maker John Bogdanovich. John aspired to be a professional classical guitar player but was waylaid by stage fright and went onto another career path before he came to study with renown woodworker James Krenov. His studies with Krenov eventually led him back to the guitar world but this time as a maker. John is also the author of the excellent book Classical Guitar Making, published by Sterling press. In this in-depth interview, John and I cover a lot of ground and he makes no bones about where he sees room for improvement in today's players, guitar makers and their instruments. https://www.jsbguitars.com/ http://jameskrenov.com/http://www.bashkinguitars.com https://www.fretboardjournal.com | |||
| 3. Laurent Brondel | 17 Mar 2017 | 00:55:48 | |
Before moving to the United States, Laurent Brondel was a professional musician in France for 20 years. He originally moved to New York and, along the way, Laurent started to work on his own guitars. Laurent eventually found himself in rural Main and, after working for a time at Bourgeois guitars he started building guitars under his own name. For our third episode, Laurent and I talk about this journey and hear his perspectives on the music industry, vintage Martins, his varnish finishes as well as his new electric guitars. | |||
| 2. Burton Legeyt | 21 Feb 2017 | 00:47:01 | |
Burton Legeyt started building guitars without any formal training or apprenticeship. Instead he came to guitarbuilding through painting, picture framing, metal working and vintage watchmaking equipment. His open-minded approach gives his guitars a distinctive look and feel, even down to the tuning machines. In this interview we cover restoring vintage tooling, his definition of art, why he started (and stopped) shaving braces with a razor blade. http://legeytguitars.com http://www.bashkinguitars.com https://www.fretboardjournal.com | |||
| 1. Ervin Somogyi | 20 Feb 2017 | 01:03:40 | |
Ervin Somogyi is often referred to as the luthier's luthier: His guitars are among the most well-known and sought after custom instruments being made today. Ervin has influenced the custom guitar world, not with his own guitars, but also by training some of today's top builders and by authoring his two-book series the Responsive Guitar. For our debut episode of Luthier on Luthier, Ervin and I cover a lot of topics including what he enjoys most about guitar building, his approach to understanding how guitars work and his thoughts on design. http://www.esomogyi.com http://www.bashkinguitars.com https://www.fretboardjournal.com | |||
| 97. Max Monterosso | 30 Dec 2024 | 01:02:05 | |
Max Monterosso builds beautifully detailed steel string guitars, harp and electric guitars out of his one-person shop in the Veneto region of Italy. For episode 97 of the podcast, I caught up with Max at the Acoustic Guitar Village Show in Cremona, Italy this past October. https://www.instagram.com/maxmonte_guitars/ Max shares insights from building harp and steel string guitars, his thoughts on 3D printers and CNC in his shop, and discusses how visiting other builders has helped shape his career. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds.
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| 96. Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival and the New Blue Guitars | 30 Nov 2024 | 00:37:19 | |
Episode 96 of Luthier on Luthier is a collection of interviews from the 2024 Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival, sponsored by Henriksen Amplifiers. At the show, Cris Mirabella, Tyler Wells, and Maegan Wells each presented their guitars to the new Blue Guitars Collection. I sit down with each of them to hear their thoughts on the instruments and their construction. There is also a bonus interview with George Leach of the Phoenix Guitar Company, who just published a new book on guitar building. Patreon supporters: You can listen to the 2024 Blue Guitars presentation ceremony hosted Linda Manzer and Tom Ribbecke. Join us at https://www.patreon.com/luthieronluthier to hear the whole thing. Links https://theblueguitars.com/ https://www.lhtguitars.com/home-2 https://www.mirabellaguitars.com/ https://www.maegenwellsguitars.com/ https://www.phoenixguitarco.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 95. Mark Stutman (Folkway Music) | 28 Oct 2024 | 01:04:39 | |
Mark Stutman is renowned for vintage guitar repairs and is also the owner of Canada's Folkway Music in Waterloo, Ontario. For episode 95 of the podcast, Mark goes into the history of his repair career and how it all started with the search for a good left-handed guitar. Mark also shares with us some of the unique challenges of working on vintage Gibsons and much more. Link: https://folkwaymusic.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 94: Michael Millard (Froggy Bottom Guitars) | 23 Sep 2024 | 00:45:23 | |
Episode 94 of the podcast is a live interview at the 2024 Fretboard Summit with the incredible Michael Millard of Froggy Bottom Guitars. Michael has over 50 years of guitar-building experience. In 1970, he spent four years working with Gurian Guitars before launching Froggy Bottom. He shares with us lessons learned from customer interactions, guitars, martial arts and much more. https://froggybottomguitars.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 93: Seth Baccus | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:55:45 | |
Seth Baccus creates a range of beautiful electric guitars in the UK. Seth learned the guitar business and guitar making from renowned luthiers Andy and Hugh Manson, who also happen to be his stepdad and uncle, respectively. For episode 93 of the podcast, Seth tells us about his retail experience and being a road tech for John Paul Jones and the Led Zeppelin reunion tour and how these experiences helped inform his own guitars. And for Patreon supporters only, Seth and I get into his pickup choices and more tales from the Led Zeppelin reunion tour rehearsals. Link: https://www.sethbaccus.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 92. Mark Blanchard (Blanchard Guitars) | 27 Jul 2024 | 01:05:37 | |
Guitarmaker Mark Blanchard has a background in machining, a skill he learned at a young age from his dad. These days, he uses his metal-working skills to not only make his own excellent truss rods but also a CNC lathe and many of his own tools, including chisels and planes. Mark does all this out of his one-person shop, located in the mountains of California making highly collectible and outstanding guitars. For Episode 92 of the podcast, Mark tells us how it all got started, and we discuss his use of Chlandi patterns, top selection, and much more. http://www.blanchardguitars.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 91. Noemi Schembri (Noemi Guitars) | 29 Jun 2024 | 00:49:19 | |
Noemi Schembri builds outstanding guitars out of her one-person workshop in Northern Italy. Noemi had an interest in woodworking at a young age and went to high school and college to prepare for a career in the wood industry. For episode 91 of the podcast, Noemi tells us how she ended up forging her own path in woodworking and how this led to her success as a guitar builder. Noemi also shares with us her approach to making different models, selecting topwoods, and the thought behind the visual aspects of her guitars. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds.
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| 90. Jeff LaQuatra | 31 May 2024 | 00:56:01 | |
Jeff LaQuatra is a professor of guitar and has directed the guitar program at Colorado State University since 2016. For episode 90 of the podcast, Jeff shares his musical journey from student, to winning and judging competitions, to teaching. Jeff also talks about how he prepares his students to make a living as a professional player and what advice he gives them regarding buying their first concert-grade guitar. Finally, Jeff discusses his plans for a new guitar venture starting this fall. https://www.jefflaquatra.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds.
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| 89. Josh Rieck (J. Rieck Lutherie) | 27 Apr 2024 | 00:57:57 | |
Josh Rieck has many arrows in his luthier quiver. He builds and repairs instruments, and also owns a full-service music store in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Josh started out studying double bass in college and then completed the Guitar Repair & Building program at Red Wing College in Minnesota. He does it all: Violin family instruments, acoustics, and electric guitars. For Ep. 89 of the podcast, Josh tells us about his journey as a guitarmaker, including the year he worked behind-the-scenes at the National Music Museum, the growth of his own repair shop, and more. Josh also talks about his latest shop acquisition, a PLEK machine. https://www.jrieck.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds.
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| 106. StewMac's Brock Poling and Gene Imbody | 04 Oct 2025 | 01:04:41 | |
On Episode 106 of the Luthier on Luthier podcast, I'm joined by Brock Poling and Gene Imbody from Stewart-MacDonald—the original luthier supply company. Brock and Gene take us behind the scenes to show how StewMac tools and products are developed, from the first idea all the way to delivery. We also talk about the company's history and where they see it heading in the future. Link: https://www.stewmac.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 88. Casimi Guitars | 27 Mar 2024 | 01:09:51 | |
Lifelong friends Mathias Roux and Matthew Rice make visually stunning and beautifully executed Casimi Guitars out of their shop in South Africa. For episode 88 of the podcast, Mathias and Matthew discuss how they developed their visual style and the voice of their guitars. They also share their thoughts on the division of labor in the shop, their time working in Marc Maingard's shop, planning inlays, and the pros and cons of making guitars in South Africa. https://casimiguitars.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 87. Joe Zon (Zon Guitars) | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:59:03 | |
Joe Zon of Zon Guitars has been pushing the limits of bass building with phenomenal results since the early 1980s. For episode 87 of the podcast, Joe explains his theory and the construction of all-composite necks and how they are used to enhance the sounds of the wood. Joe also discusses his collaboration with Bartolini pickups, active versus passive electronics, bolt-on versus neck-through construction, and why the Hyperbass is a misunderstood instrument. Finally, Joe shares a few stories about his time making basses for legendary musician Rick James. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 86: Aluminati Guitar Company | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:52:15 | |
Aluminati Guitars offers innovative, environmentally friendly, and beautifully designed guitars built in Asheville, North Carolina. For episode 86 of the podcast, I sit down with the company's founder, James Little. James tells us about the aluminum, carbon fiber and Lucite components used to make their complete instruments, OEM necks, and off-the-shelf parts. He also shares with us how the company got started, how the bike industry helped their fabrication, some new projects, and his plans for the future. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 85. Al Beardsell | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:58:05 | |
Al Beardsell makes beautifully designed and crafted guitars in Winnipeg, Canada. Al started building as a musician because he could not find, or in some cases, afford the kind of guitars he wanted to play. For episode 85 of the podcast, Al shares with us his thoughts on engineered sides, electric acoustic hybrids, making pickups, and much more. Finally, Al discusses why he thinks guitar making was the only career path for him and how he recently came to this understanding. https://www.beardsellguitars.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 84. Cristian Mirabella | 28 Nov 2023 | 01:15:25 | |
Cris Mirabella (Mirabella Guitars) makes stunning archtop and electric guitars from his workshop on Long Island. For episode 84 of the podcast, Cris gives us a mini masterclass on New York archtop guitar history. We hear about the origins of Jimmy D'Angelico, Jimmy D'Aquisto, and Vincent DiSerio and how they are all intertwined. Then, Cris shares with us his own personal story of becoming one of the world's best archtop guitar makers and how sometimes beautiful things can arise from tragic events. https://www.mirabellaguitars.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 83. James Condino | 30 Oct 2023 | 01:10:17 | |
James Condino builds and repairs guitars, mandolins and standup basses in Asheville, NC. And he plays all of them! For episode 83, James shares with us some commonalities and differences of all the instruments he works on, his business philosophy and the importance of playing music to his craft. Links: https://condino.com/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Condino-String-Instruments-100028847900108 https://thedirtyfrenchbroads.com/aboutLuthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 82. Richard Hoover (Santa Cruz Guitar Co.) | 27 Sep 2023 | 00:44:45 | |
Richard Hoover is the founder of the Santa Cruz Guitar Company, which has been a leader in the world of boutique acoustic guitars since 1976. For episode 82 of the podcast, recorded live at the 2023 Fretboard Summit, Richard shares his guiding principles, thoughts on running a company, selecting materials, and much more. Links: https://gofund.me/56ef4040 (GoFundMe for luthier Joel Wilkens) https://www.instagram.com/frettiemercury/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 81. Nic Delisle (Island Instruments) | 30 Aug 2023 | 00:51:55 | |
Island Instruments' Nic Delisle makes a wide variety of incredible and innovative guitars out of his Montreal workshop. For episode 81 of the podcast, Nic tells us all about the construction and origins of his new archtop double-top model. We also talk about the guitar co-op he operates out of, his milk paint finishes, his aluminum-neck basses, and more. Link: https://www.island-instruments.com/Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 80. Larry Fitzgerald | 28 Jul 2023 | 01:17:39 | |
Larry Fitzgerald is considered one of the world's top guitar repairmen. As a teenager, Larry was often hanging around NYC's famous guitar shops on 48th Street. After a year at the Berklee College of Music, he worked at Rudy's doing repairs and eventually assisted John Suhr in making the renowned Pensa/Suhr guitars. Larry then worked at Mandolin Brothers before opening up his own shop. For episode 80 of the podcast, he shares his thoughts on fretting, neck angles and so much more. Larry also tells us how it all got started thanks to some sage advice from his grandfather. Link: https://www.fitzgeraldguitars.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon. | |||
| 79. Mitsuhiro Uchida | 28 Jun 2023 | 00:39:05 | |
Support Luthier on Luthier with our new Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/luthieronluthier You may not know the name Mitsuhiro Uchida, but you should. Mitsuhiro is a national treasure of Japan and has influenced makers like Michi Matsuda and Isaac Jang, who join me for today's podcast. Uchida-san started his international lutherie journey working for guitar companies in Japan and then moved to Germany to do repairs before working at Lowden Guitars in Ireland. In the 1990s, he moved back to Japan to set up shop on a remote mountainside where he builds incredible one-of-a-kind creations. For episode 79 of the podcast, Uchida-san tells us his story and his philosophy of guitar making. Links: http://www.melodist-net.com/~harpguitar/UchidaGuitarEng.htm https://asamiuchida.thebase.in/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. | |||
| 105: TJ Thompson | 28 Aug 2025 | 01:18:33 | |
For episode 105 of the Luthier on Luthier podcast, my guest is TJ Thompson — widely regarded as the foremost authority on vintage Martins and a master guitar maker in his own right. In our conversation, TJ reflects on why he builds guitars, why he sometimes feels unsuited to the work, and he shares thoughtful advice for fellow luthiers along the way. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 78. Keisuke Nishi (Keystone Guitars) | 30 May 2023 | 00:53:13 | |
This month's podcast features one of my favorite builders, Keisuke Nishi of Keystone Guitars. Keisuke went to luthier school in both Japan and the US, worked for First Act, and then did an apprenticeship with acclaimed guitarmaker Mario Beauregard. For episode 78 of the podcast, Keisuke compares his educational experiences and discusses how he was eventually able to start his own shop in Tokyo. He also shares his thoughts on design, the luthier scene in Japan, and much more. Links: https://www.keystone-si.com/ https://ogawainlay.com/ Love Luthier on Luthier? Support it via our new Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/luthieronluthier Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars. | |||
| 77. Joshia de Jonge | 02 May 2023 | 00:50:28 | |
Joshia de Jonge builds world-renowned classical guitars out of her one-person shop in Western Quebec. Joshia grew up in a famed guitar-building family and was helping her dad, Sergei, build and teach guitarmaking while she was still a teenager. For episode 77 of the podcast, Joshia tells us when she decided to make lutherie her full-time profession and why she now focuses on nylon-string creations. We also talk about double tops, tornavoz, side ports, laminations and much more. Link: https://joshiadejonge.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Stringjoy Strings, and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 76. Dick Boak | 29 Mar 2023 | 00:57:01 | |
Dick Boak started as a draftsman at Martin guitars and stayed for 42 years taking on numerous roles at the company, including Director of the Martin Museum and Archives; Director of Advertising and Artist Models; Guitar Designer, Founder of the 1833 Shop; and more. For episode 76 of the podcast, Dick tells us about his first attempt at guitarmaking, the influence of the Whole Earth Catalog, and how he ended up Martin, thanks to some enterprising dumpster diving. We also talk about how his role at Martin changed over the years, what it's like to collaborate with well-known artists on signature models, and how Martin as a company has changed over the decades. Lastly, we hear about Dick's other pursuits and passions as an artist, solo luthier, author, poet, musician, teacher and archivist for none other than Mario Andretti. Link: https://www.dickboak.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company (check out their new Gruhn Guitars blend), Stringjoy Strings, and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 75. Tim Frick | 25 Feb 2023 | 00:49:33 | |
From a young age, Tim Frick knew that he wanted to make instruments. As a teenager, he began building basses for himself. He'd eventually take a class with famed archtop guitarmaker Tom Ribbecke, work at Gary Brawer's repair shop in San Francisco, and then spend years alongside lutherie legend Frank Ford at Gryphon Guitars in Palo Alto, California. These days, Frick is based in Portland, Oregon, where he repairs guitars and builds his own archtop guitar creations. For episode 75 of the podcast, Tim tells us about his journey, why he uses mostly hand tools, and his thoughts on voicing archtops. We also talk Japanese hand tools and much more. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company (check out their new Gruhn Guitars blend), Stringjoy Strings, and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 74. Larry Robinson | 30 Jan 2023 | 00:53:43 | |
Legendary inlay artist Larry Robinson has been adorning guitars with jaw-dropping inlays for over 40 years. For episode 74 of the podcast, Larry discusses the creative and the technical side of inlay work and working with directly with guitar builders and players. Larry also shares his experience working on the Millionth Martin guitar, as well as other now-famous inlay projects. We also hear about Larry's first jobs in lutherie, his books and instructional materials, and how he sources his raw materials. Link: Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company (check out their new Gruhn Guitars blend), Stringjoy Strings, and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 73. Michael Watts | 02 Jan 2023 | 00:54:45 | |
Guitarist Michael Watts is back for episode 73 of the podcast. Michael recounts the history of Scott Chinery's famous Blue guitar collection and how it led to his new gig working for the Archtop Foundation. Michael also shares with us his views on flattop vs. archtop guitars, his experience with online gigs during Covid lockdowns, previews all his latest projects, including a new podcast he's hosting for the Fretboard Journal (Life on the Fretboard with Michael Watts), and, finally, his finest cure for jetlag. Links: https://michaelwattsguitar.com/home Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company (check out their new Gruhn Guitars blend) and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 72. Bryan Galloup | 28 Nov 2022 | 01:34:01 | |
Bryan Galloup started out as a tool and die maker and now runs one of the largest lutherie schools in the US, in addition to making his own line of highly-coveted acoustic guitars. For episode 72 of the podcast, Bryan tells us about his background before making musical instruments, the path that led to the development of his wood grading system, and his views on voicing guitars. We also discuss running a school and what it's like to collaborate with his former students. https://www.galloupguitars.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 71. Max Krimmel | 26 Oct 2022 | 00:53:55 | |
For his entire life, Max Krimmel has dedicated himself to two paths: Making and music. Though Max stopped building guitars in 1983, he went on to craft dulcimers and marimbas and create turned alabaster pieces, some of which are on display in the Smithsonian. For episode 71 of the podcast, I sit down with Max in his Nederland, Colorado studio to hear his thoughts on being an independent guitar maker in the '60s and 1970s. We talk about his very last guitar, Kasha bracing, and the transition he made to making other instruments and crafts. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. Luthiers for a Cause: https://www.luthiersforacause.org | |||
| 70. Michael Gurian | 28 Sep 2022 | 00:39:27 | |
Michael Gurian started building guitars in the early 1960s and then founded the Gurian Guitar Company. He'd go on to create one of the first successful boutique steel string guitar companies of the modern era, with clients ranging from Paul Simon and Jackson Browne to Pierre Bensusan. Michael has also consulted with major guitar companies and eventually became a supplier for wood, materials, and tools used by other makers. Now retired, he's building instruments, by-hand, once again. For episode 70 of Luthier on Luthier, recorded live at the 2022 Chicago Fretboard Summit, Michael recounts some of his accomplishments and setbacks. He also shares his thoughts on running a business to starting in lutherie today and much more. https://www.gurianinstruments.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 69. James Roadman | 30 Aug 2022 | 00:43:41 | |
San Antonio's James Roadman is not only a top-notch repair person but also the maker behind some incredible tooling for luthiers. For Episode 69 of the podcast, James tells us how he went from making his own drum set to repairing guitars. He also covers all his machine shop tools and how he uses them in both repair and machining. http://www.jroadman.com/instruments/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 104. Michael Sankey | 29 Jul 2025 | 01:15:03 | |
On Episode 104 of the podcast, I talk with Michael Sankey, a wildly creative guitar maker from Ottawa. Michael's work combines old-school methods like hand tools and hide glue with futuristic elements like 3D-printed metal parts. We get into how he balances tradition with innovation—and why he builds guitars based on his own ideas, not just what the market expects. https://www.sankeyguitars.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars and brought to you by the Fretboard Journal. This episode is sponsored by Dream Guitars and StewMac. Want to support Luthier on Luthier? Join our Patreon to get access to exclusive photos and content from Michael and his builds. | |||
| 68. Eric Schoenberg | 29 Jul 2022 | 00:44:27 | |
Musician, vintage instrument expert, and guitar dealer Eric Schoenberg is largely responsible for the resurgence of OM-size guitars. In the early 1970s, Eric worked with the Martin guitar company to start making OM guitars based on their own late 1920s and early 1930s designs. The project at times also included names we all know such as Dana Bourgeois, TJ Thompson, Julius Borges, John Slobod, Bruce Sexauer, Robert Anderson, Randall "Sparky" Kramer, and others. For Episode 68 of the podcast, we hear the history of Eric's path as a professional player, guitar designer, and retailer, and his thoughts on OM's, 12 fret vs 14 frets guitars, and much more. Link: https://om28.com/ Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 67. Les Godfrey | 29 Jun 2022 | 01:27:31 | |
Les Godfrey makes world-class electric guitars and basses known for their unique style out of his one-person shop in Kingston, Canada. For episode 67 of the podcast, Les dives deep into his thoughts on design and the role of instrument making in his life. We also hear about his time working in Carl Thompson's shop, his time as a touring musician, and how he started making guitars. Link: https://www.godfreyguitars.com Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 66. Dusty Gregg | 29 May 2022 | 00:57:35 | |
Dusty Gregg spent years as a professional touring guitarist and road tech before starting his own line of guitars. For episode 66 of the podcast, Dusty tells us about how his time on the road serving professional musicians influenced his guitar designs. He also shares his thoughts on winding pickups, pickup magnets, carbon fiber, and much more. Luthier on Luthier is hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Allied Lutherie, and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 65. Doug Proper | 26 Apr 2022 | 01:36:19 | |
Doug and Sharon Proper own and operate Guitar Specialist, one of the top repair shops in the country. Doug started out with ambitions of becoming a professional jazz guitarist and began repairing guitars to help pay for his music studies in college. For our 65th episode of the podcast, Doug tells us about approaching lutherie as a sound financial business and his philosophy on pricing and customer relations. We also talk about some of Doug's favorite tool, least favorite jobs, and much more. https://www.guitarspecialist.com Hosted by Michael Bashkin of Bashkin Guitars. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Allied Lutherie and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 64. Bruce Sexauer | 28 Mar 2022 | 00:59:55 | |
Veteran luthier Bruce Sexauer has been building guitars for over 50 years. For episode 64 of the podcast, Bruce tells us about his moldless method of construction, his oil varnish finish, and his collaborations with Eric Schoenberg. Bruce also shares is thoughts on the relationship between function and beauty in his guitars and how this relates to personal growth. https://sexauerluthier.com This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Allied Lutherie and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 63. Retrograde Guitars | 28 Feb 2022 | 00:53:21 | |
Glenn Nichols of Retrograde Guitars builds instruments inspired by the catalog guitars of the 1940s and '50s. For episode 63 of the podcast, he tells us how he is re-imagining laminated tops and how he treats them as acoustically tunable plates. He also shares how, after getting a degree in art, he ended up working for Santa Cruz guitars and luthiers Kenny Hill and Bill Tippin. We also talk about the spirit varnish he uses on all his guitars, his wood choices and more. This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Allied Lutherie and Dream Guitars. | |||
| 62. João Cassias | 27 Jan 2022 | 01:16:51 | |
João Cassias makes electric, acoustic, and archtop guitars out of his three-person shop in São Paulo, Brazil. For Episode 62 of the podcast, João tells us how he got bit by the luthierie bug and about his early guitar studies in São Paulo. He recounts how, with the support of his family, he was able to come to the US to attend the Galloup school and spend time at Ervin Somogyi and Tom Ribbecke's shops. João shares stories and lessons from each of those experiences and tells us why the archtop guitar is his favorite. https://www.instagram.com/cassiasguitars/ https://www.galloupguitars.com/galloup-school/This episode is sponsored by Acoustic Coffee Company, Allied Lutherie and Dream Guitars. | |||