Words from the Maker

How do we get to where we are? It’s mysterious at best, frequently involves luck of one variety or another, or maybe it’s just karma. Music and woodworking were always currents in my adult life, but only became conjoined when I met Jim Olson in 1990. As I wound down one career, Jim was my polestar in becoming a luthier, and most of my knowledge in the field is traceable to him. He has been especially helpful pointing out concrete ways to approach fabrication problems. In addition, I have been influenced by the science-based approach of Trevor Gore. Modern lutherie has benefited from decades of trial and error, and will continue to do so. Nevertheless, I am excited to see if physics can inform the art going forward.