lu·thi·er
[lü-thē-ər] : noun
a skilled craftsperson who builds, repairs, or restores stringed instruments
When I think of the Errington luthier show, one person always comes to mind. In fact, this show is a part of his lasting legacy.
Bob Herbison was well known in the Errington area as a dedicated volunteer and all-round great guy. An elected board member with the Errington War Memorial Hall, Bob saw an opportunity to bring his love of music and instrument building to the community he cared so much about.
The Guitars by Hand show was born, his baby from the beginning. I still laugh when I remember his struggles trying to organize a large group of independent artists. “Getting you guys together for this is like herding cats!” And Bob wasn’t wrong. But somehow, each year, he managed to do it, providing the Oceanside community with an exhibit of luthiers both varied and talented.
It started out about 15 years ago with mostly a bunch of hobbyists displaying their work, but there were a few pros. Sigmund Johannessen, a longtime fixture in the industry, taught the craft to folks from around the world at his Qualicum Beach luthiery school, Summit School of Guitar Building. His work always brought up the level of professionalism and inspiration at the event.
As the years progressed, so too did the skill of the builders.
Until one day, the world stopped.
As with many events, the COVID-19 pandemic took its toll on the Errington show, cancelling the event and leaving its fate hanging in the balance. But those years also brought deep sadness. In 2022, due to an unrelated illness, Bob Herbison passed away. Many of us who knew him through the luthiers show didn’t get a chance to say goodbye.
Bringing the show back from Bob’s handwritten notes
As the wider world began returning to normal, there was no plan to continue the show. My pal Denny Durocher, a fellow instrument builder and founder of the Canada Cuba Luthier Solidarity Group, gave me a call. After a short but passionate phone call, we decided that, with the help of some of Bob’s old hand-written notes, we would do our best to keep this great event going in his honour and for the benefit of all the craftspeople. And we did!
What you’ll find at the Errington guitar show
While the work being showcased in those early days was definitely impressive, many of us have since grown to produce world-class instruments. Most of the luthiers at the show are from Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. And they are not just building instruments.
Need a new guitar stand? You’ll find the most uniquely beautiful handcrafted stands at the event. With more than 20 tables and builders, you will be in for a feast for your eyes and imagination.
“Making a connection with the person that crafted it, knowing it’s uniquely-made, creates an intimacy with your instrument that can’t be matched”
Whether you’re a lover of musical instruments or just have an appreciation for fine craftsmanship and amazing woods from around the world, you’ll see it all at the Errington War Memorial Hall on October 17.
The case for a handmade instrument
If you’re a serious musician, you will love it. And, if you’d like to take your playing to the next level, upgrading your instrument is a great way to level up. You could walk into a big music store and buy something mass-produced in a factory. However, as a musician myself, I understand the love affairs we develop with our instruments. Making a connection with the person that crafted it, knowing it’s uniquely-made, creates an intimacy with your instrument that can’t be matched.
I’ve had the pleasure of being in and attending many luthier shows, but the Guitars by Hand show holds a very special place in my heart. With little pretence or ego, this show is unique and has a great community vibe. I’m very grateful for the lifelong connections I’ve developed there and hope to make more. If you attend the event, please say hello!
Keeping the local roots of this show alive is really important to us. If you’ve got a couple instruments you’ve built and would like to display them, or just something related to this craft, please get in touch. It’s probably one of the most affordable shows on the planet, and we’d love to have you!
For updates, follow along on Instagram and Facebook: Errington Guitars By Hand Show
Guitars by Hand
October 17th, 10 am – 3 pm
Errington War Memorial Hall
Free Admission
