Makers

We are honoured to have these special artisans exhibiting their creations and sharing their wisdom at our festival. They will be showing small-run and bespoke instruments (not only banjos!) that you just won’t find in the average High Street music shop.

The Makers display will be in the Guildford corner store. We are sad the store is currently not operational but very thankful to the owners who have allowed us to use the space for the instrument makers gallery.

(Click on any image for a larger view)

Laurie Grundy

Guildford Banjo Jamboree

https://www.grundybanjos.com

Laurie Grundy is an Australian master luthier based in Everton, Victoria and in Eminence, Missouri, USA.

He has crafted five string resonator banjos since 1976. Laurie is recognised for his pre-war classic era resonator banjo format which he believes is the best configuration for a bluegrass five string banjo.

Laurie emphasises using the best available wood and hardware, crafted with meticulous precision and detail. Grundy banjos are played around the world by professional players and beginners alike.

Ray Black

Guildford Banjo Jamboree

fwcfarmer@yahoo.com

In 1980, Ray started on his instrument making journey.

As a tradesman cabinetmaker, Ray had developed skills which would transfer to making mandolins. With advice from legendary banjo maker Pat Doole, Ray soon completed a couple of mandolins. Octave mandolins and Irish bouzoukis were in demand, so were added to his range of instruments, before his rising interest in Bluegrass music led him into making mandolins with a carved top and back.

Around 1995 Pat invited Ray to make banjos with him. The banjos used hardware made in Pat’s workshop which added metalworking experience into Ray’s skill base. This arrangement continued until Pat’s retirement.

Currently Ray builds mainly open back banjos which feature hardware made in his own workshop, and still has time to make the carved top mandolins which are his true love.