David Hole
Luthier
High Country Guitars
My Story
David has made guitars since 2016, when he began a course with the master luthier, Chris Wynne at his school (Thomas Lloyd) at Montsalvat in Eltham. Chris Wynne (now based in France) remains his mentor and good friend and they still collaborate regularly.
David and his partner Rachel are luthiers specializing in custom-built classical and acoustic guitars. They use Australian tonewoods exclusively in their guitar builds which, although slowly gaining popularity, are still relatively ignored by many luthiers. Australian tonewoods used include King Billy and Bunya Pine for soundboards; Blackwood, Cooba, and Tiger Myrtle for backs/sides; Red Cedar, Blackwood, or Queensland Maple for the necks; Native Olive and Mulga for fretboards; and other attractive native woods for inlays/rosettes and bridges, (Purpleheart, Jarrah).
They have played classical guitar for many years and recently started composing. As players, they have good ears for the best tonewoods to use. Every piece of wood is unique, and they enjoy the journey of uncovering each guitar’s potential, as every guitar has an individual voice and will suit a certain style of music. They are friends with the classical guitarist Daniel Nistico who has helped provide guidance and advice on guitar tone and playability.
At the beginning of 2024, David and Rachel opened their long-wished-for guitar school and they look forward to showing you into their workshop and answering any questions you may have!
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