I have owned and operated “The Guitar Specialist” since 1986 after inheriting it from my first teacher and mentor, Charles Lavern – a master of everything having to do with guitars. He retired to Florida and bestowed upon me the gift of his legacy. Among all of the things he has taught me, one thing reaches above all else – his love for the guitar. He displayed a passion for this wonderful instrument that could compete with no other passion I have ever encountered. I endeavor to carry that passion of his through everything I do with guitars today. Since his retirement we have spoken often, but have lost touch over the years – I pray he is well and still with us – and if he has passed, may he hear beautiful music for all eternity. I owe more to him than all of my life experience and any amount of money could repay. – Bless you Mr. Laverne, I remain, Musically Yours.
As a guitarist & luthier I have always prided myself in carrying on the tradition and principles of the man who bestowed upon me his love for musical instruments and the career I now have engaged in for over 20 years. I try to treat each customer and instrument as if my business depended on them – and it does. I have been fortunate to know and work with so many great musicians – famous or otherwise. At “The Guitar Specialist”, we strive to provide the best service and the best playing instruments you could ever hold, play and cherish.
We use a combination of modern and old world techniques and do almost everything in the shop with the attitude that handcrafted is always better. I have concentrated my efforts on developing my skills and a working knowledge of musical instruments for more than two decades to provide our customers with a service that is unequalled.
As we continue to grow, it becomes impossible for me to do every task on every guitar. There was a time that I was the only luthier in the shop. Then there was Sharon and I working together. Soon it became clear that we would need help to keep up with the demand for our services. Initially I was very hesitant to employ others in the fear that the quality of the service we offer would suffer as we grew and had to depend on others. I have been fortunate to have the people who are working with us join our team. Each of them treat our business like it is theirs. They invest every fiber of their being in the success and excellence we strive for every day at The Guitar Specialist. I invite to you find out more about us – don’t hesitate to call, e-mail or write us. After all, it is our customers to whom we owe all of our success and the ability to further our knowledge & skills
– Doug Proper, President – The Guitar Specialist, Inc.
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