Matthew takes on commissions for almost any kind of stringed instrument, working with the customer through all stages of design and construction from wood selection and inlay to tone and finish.

    Almost any wood suitable for stringed instruments is available. 

     All instruments are finished in a french polish base with satin nitro-cellulose top coats, though many other finishes are available on request.

 Dulcimers:

-   Options include binding and purfling details, and choice of 1 3/8" (35mm) and 1 1/2" (38mm) fingerboard widths.

-   All models have scroll heads, bone nut and saddles and 27" (686mm) scale length (unless requested otherwise).

We are now the leading UK supplier of L.R. Baggs transducer dulcimer pickup.  This pickup takes the place of the bridge and has a 1/4" endpin jack for plugging in. 

Dulcimers from £350

Steel String Guitars:

-   All guitars are custom designed around the player with the most poplular style being the Martin OM and OOO.  

-   All guitars include bone nut and saddle, adjustable truss rod, and fine tuned tops.  Any scale length is available, the most commonly requested is 25.4" (645mm) Martin scale.

Guitars start at £1500

Also, Flat Top Mandolins from £750

Repairs

     Matthew specialises in repairs and restorations as well.  He can carry out expert repairs on almost any stringed instrument and vintage restoration work.  He will first do a detailed diagnostic of your instrument and then give an estimate before beginning any work.  Some basic services include:

• Action set-ups

• Finish touch-ups

• Intonation

• New nut/saddle

• Fret stones

• Re-frets

• Pick-ups fitted

• Crack repair

• Violin set-ups

     Full restoration services for vintage instruments is also available.  Insurance evaluations and appraisals. Please contact Matthew for an estimate.

      Matthew has done work for Martin Pleass, Graham Bellinger, Hayseed-Dixie, Steve Fairclough, and Gary Potter.  He is currently building an instrument for Chris Leslie of Fairport Convention.

     Matthew is also the resident repairman for SoundMove Music, 161 Old Chester Rd., Bebington, Wirral, and for Back Alley Music in Chester.  Any instruments brought into these shops for repair work will go directly to Matthew to be skilfully repaired.

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       Since 2006 Matthew is the head luthier and warranty repairman for GoTo guitars, which are the UK distributors for Breedlove and Fairclough guitars.

     We also have a great supply of banjo and mandolin parts!

     For queries, orders, or to arrange a meeting with Matthew, please phone him on 0779 169 1251