Dick, I am very fussy as to who works on my guitars. I have been a bit spoiled by the luthiers at Elderly Instruments who took special care of my instruments. I have been searching for a quality shop that understands acoustic instruments. I believe I have found it in Bucks County Music Shop. Karl Dietericks (sp?) is the luthier. I spent about an hour there yesterday and left him my mid 60's vintage Guild 12 string. That instrument is an old friend and I felt very comfortable leaving it with him. You could tell that this guy is very knowledgable and understands the relationship between musician and instrument.

When you drive up, you get the first clue. This ia a "homespun" looking shop. It is an old house with instruments in the window (UV glass). It is obviously an acoustic, folk, bluegrass type store. Walk in the door and you see Larrivee's, Gallaghers, etc. None of the cheap knockoff stuff.

I will let you know about the quality of the repairs. I had them replace a bit of binding that came off, and do a general setup on the 12. While I was explaining what I want, he asked me to play a rhythm that would demonstrate the hardest I play the guitar, another clue to him understanding his craft. I also left him my little Princess tenor banjo. We had quite a discussion on this as well.

Report coming soon.

All the best,

Mick