Today we’d like to introduce you to Clayton George.
Hi Clayton, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was primarily raised by my grandparents. My grandfather was a cabinet worker from Germany. I spent a lot of time learning woodworking, and learned how to make projects using only hand tools. For example, my tool box contains no metal fasteners. It is all dovetailed and fit by hand. Latter in life I learned electronic repair, and worked at a shop repairing stereos and other electronics. I learned piano as a child and later the guitar and bass and would go to Musicians Row in NYC and talk with the Luthiers there. Not having a lot of money, this all transitioned into repairing and modifying my own instruments. It was the late 60’s and early 70’s with what would now be considered classics and now worth an arm and a leg. I repaired and modified some friend’s instruments, some who later became would become accomplished musicians. I still do their instruments today. I have also worked on many instruments for musicians, and remember hearing their songs on the radio. Little did I know I would be working on those very same instruments used in those recordings years ago. I had primarily worked by word of mouth, but after retirement, decided to open it up as a full time business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No road is smooth. They all have their potholes. I don’t consider anything a struggle, just a challenge. One challenge was with the internet. Last year AI went live and deleted a considerable amount of websites. Now you cannot speak to a live representative and had to hire a team to sort it out.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I would consider it to be a craftsman. These instruments are a work of art that has evolved over centuries. They speak the words that are from the heart of the musician. They express emotions, create stories, and can move the listener into another world. As a musician myself, I love being able transition an instrument into something that an artist can play from that magical path from the brain or heart to the listener. These instruments should not be a struggle and fight you. You should be able to pick it up and speak in that musical language fluently.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Learning how to read music. Feeling the vibrations of the wood transmitting my thoughts into sound. Later finding that zone where my heart spoke and not my brain. I am sure this all sounds strange, but if you are a musician you would know exactly what I am talking about.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Crgguitarworks.com
