I grew up in the hills of upstate NY, where my father built furniture, and where from a very young age we hauled around our handsaws and hammers, ready to assist at a moment's notice.  

After finishing school, I worked with my father for a time, learning all that I could, and eventually building my own shop.  For a number of years I immersed myself in cabinet making, having every reason to assume that it would carry me on through. And it may have done, had it not been for the want of a mandolin, and for the book that explained how to construct one. 

I've never looked back. 

From mandolins to guitars to fiddles, the fascination has only continued to grow, and I'm always excited about where the next project will lead!