I met David many years ago in the early days of my electric guitar building. David would ask me to bring around my builds and he would offer advice and guidance, helping me build confidence and in his ever so humble way made me feel like it was possible for me to be a guitar builder too.
One day David offered that if I ever wanted to build acoustic guitars that he would show me his way, an offering which grew into many treasured hours spread over many years in the workshop, with the smell of cigarettes and Rosewood we discussed and dissected luthiery in great detail, I would eagerly take notes as David shared his measurements, methods and guitar building beliefs. One day I arrived and David had taken the time to draw up plans with measurements for his designs and told me to use them. He insisted!
Not only did we discuss guitars, over coffee David would share stories of his early days in England seeing acts such as Jimi Hendricks and the Beatles! He shared stories of when he used to shoot firearms and many other memories that he was fond of, like when he came to Australia with his best friend Richard. I can hear his voice and laughter as I write and it makes me both happy and sad.
David expressed that he hated being called a Master, however I am sorry David but that is a title you will have to bare, he truely was an exceptionally gifted Master Luthier. Anytime I hold the guitar David built for me, I marvel at the level of craftsmanship and the amazement never fades. He had a level of skill and attention to detail that most could only dream of.
My life is so much greater for having met you David. Your advice, your generosity of knowledge and the gift of craft that you tried to pass onto me will be forever treasured.
I will miss you my friend. May you rest in peace.
