Joining us for this week’s podcast are two instrument making legends, Michael Gurian and Dick Boak. Gurian was of course the eponymous founder of Gurian Guitars, while Boak is known to have worked at Martin Guitars for four decades.
Michael and Dick recently co-wrote the Fretboard Journal‘s first standalone book, An Instrument Maker’s Guide to Madness and Redemption (click here to order). It’s a compilation of unusual and behind-the-scenes stories from dozens of instrument makers and repairmen. Included are entries from George Gruhn, Kathy Wingert, Joe Glaser, Bob Taylor, Linda Manzer, and others.
During our chat, the duo talk about how the book project came about, what recurring themes can be found amidst these diverse luthier stories, why luthiers need to have a great sense of humor, and more.
As well as talking about the book, we hear about the instruments Michael and Dick are currently working on, including the guitar Boak recently built. Michael shares stories from the old days of lumber shopping in New York City and tells us how he just got back together with one of his old customers, Paul Simon.
It’s a great talk with two acoustic guitar innovators.
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Our podcast is sponsored by Retrofret Vintage Guitars; deer banjos; Peghead Nation (use promo code FRETBOARD and get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription); Izotope (use coupon code FRET10 to save 10% off their plug-ins); and StringJoy strings.
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