I was seduced by electric guitars in 1974, but did not act
on it until 1976.
Many guitar relationships have come and gone in my guitar coma lapse of time. Many memorable, some forgotten, many missed, some dearly loved and cherished. I know first hand how important a guitar is to an individual, an extension of oneself. More than just a trusted partner in the creative process, a guitar becomes part of the expression of ones heart and soul.
I have always been a tinker, a “Gepetto” if you will. Whenever a guitar came into my possession, I would eventually open it up and get into it so I could see what made that guitar that guitar- and always thinking to myself - what could I do to make it better. I still do this today.
During my time with the US Army, while stationed in Fort Greely, Alaska, I had ample time to further hone my skills and desires of guitarizim. The rarely used wood shop on base was at my disposal and I quickly took to all of its glorious tools, woods, craftsman paraphernalia and the like, in a way I had never had previously.
Like a kid in a candy store, I was given the gift of time and opportunity to explore. It was there I started to build my first guitars. I still have one, this is Rosie.
Many guitar relationships have come and gone in my guitar coma lapse of time. Many memorable, some forgotten, many missed, some dearly loved and cherished. I know first hand how important a guitar is to an individual, an extension of oneself. More than just a trusted partner in the creative process, a guitar becomes part of the expression of ones heart and soul.
I have always been a tinker, a “Gepetto” if you will. Whenever a guitar came into my possession, I would eventually open it up and get into it so I could see what made that guitar that guitar- and always thinking to myself - what could I do to make it better. I still do this today.
During my time with the US Army, while stationed in Fort Greely, Alaska, I had ample time to further hone my skills and desires of guitarizim. The rarely used wood shop on base was at my disposal and I quickly took to all of its glorious tools, woods, craftsman paraphernalia and the like, in a way I had never had previously.
Like a kid in a candy store, I was given the gift of time and opportunity to explore. It was there I started to build my first guitars. I still have one, this is Rosie.
In 1987 I moved to Seattle Washington. I was employed by many types of music and guitar shops around the area, always learning, always trying new things. I further honed my skills as a guitar tech and Luthier.
During this time I was also fronting a power trio that in my eyes, was the best thing since sliced bread. My band mates and I would wait with baited breath each year for Warmouth to have their annual garage sale. We would clean up and make all kinds of guitars and basses and whatever our minds could think of. It was an exciting time of exploration, experimentation and personal growth.
In 1997 I relocated to Minnesota. For a brief stint I relied on the CPA training I received in the military for employment in the private sector, but just briefly. I eventually returned to the music merchandise industry so I could nuzzle my way into corner somewhere where I could work with guitars once again, restoring, repairing and bringing new life into them. One in particular, for a brief moment in time, but highly regarded was my stint at Jim Harm’s My Music Store. I loved it there, truly the best, where my talents were highly valued and I was able to work and enjoy my craft.
Moving forward to 2005, Nashville, TN. Gibson Custom Shop Div. Pro Shop Dept. Artist relations. What a ride. Chances are I might have built, setup and repaired or restored your Custom Shop guitar.
I did plenty, and resigned in January of 2011 to begin a new chapter…
Present. NTL Guitar shop was born, officially in January 2011, Located in Nashville, Tennessee.
The realization of a dream, in an environment conducive to creativity I am able to practice my craft for the love of the instrument, the music and what it gives to ones life.
Through out my career, I have accumulated a plethora of certificates, credentials, certifications, authorizations, accolades, praises, accommodations, warrants, letters, documents, and even a gold star. I personally thank my Sensei’s who took me under their wings, believed in me, guided me, skilled me into a craftsman.
Manufacturers certification license available upon request.
Many references avail upon request as well.
