I grew up in Vermont, where I gained my love of music, woodworking, and the outdoors.  I started building musical instruments at around age ten.  I built my first mandolin while in high school.  I have been a student of traditional woodworking since I was very young, and I enjoy using a full spectrum of modern to ancient techniques. I specialize in mandolins, but I've built a variety of stringed, wind, and percussion instruments. The instruments that I play most are mandolin and octave mandolin, fiddle, Irish flute, and tin whistle. I have been building instruments full time since 2005.

I have a bachelors degree in geology from Middlebury College, and a masters degree in physical geography from the University of Oregon. My science background has been a tremendous aid in coming to understand the mechanics of musical instruments, and for me the convergence of art and science is one of the draws of luthiery. I use a scientific approach to documenting existing great-sounding instruments, and this study has vastly influenced my own work.

I continue to have a love for the outdoors, and  I enjoy telemark skiing, fly fishing, photography, and other outdoor activities.  I live with my lovely wife Sarah, our children Will and Zoe, our golden retriever Sophie who helps heat the shop in the winter (summer too), and Gus the cat.