Blackwater River Guitars
Larry Sakayama
I build custom guitars in my shop in Wirtz, VA.
I build primarily with sustainable woods. Many of the guitars I build are prototypes and experiments for guitars designed for clients. The prototypes are generally made from recycled/reclaimed wood. Beyond guitars, I've built a 6 string banjo, mountain dulcimers, small boats, and other stuff.
This Nylon String guitar was part of a local artists display at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, VA
These instruments were displayed at the Floyd Center for the Arts in Bedford, VA at their Appalachian Strings Exhibition.
I lead a group of experienced and budding luthiers called Blue Ridge Luthiers. I am a member of the Guild of American Luthiers and the Southwest Virginia Songwriters Association.
I also play in a band called the Panini Brothers - a bunch of great guys playing original music.
I've learned so much from other luthiers on the Internet (websites, blogs, forums, tutorials, YouTube...) and I thank them all for sharing their expertise. In return, I'd like to share what I've learned.
The Methods pages show how I do some of the things that I've learned, either by following someone else's advice or by working through it on my own. I'm sure there are better ways to do some of these things and if you know any, I'd like to hear from you. Some of my Tools are here.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at: larrysak3@yahoo.com.
I'd like to hear from you.
