Dave began building custom guitars after studying with Jim D'Aquisto in 1977. He has studied guitar making with many famous luthiers and has worked as a full-time guitar maker for more than 30 years. In addition, David traveled to India to learn the techniques and philosophy of Indian luthiers and now offers a valuable repair service for Indian instruments.
David has made an extensive study of instrument construction techniques over many centuries. He built lutes and early stringed instruments. He has repaired and restored many 19th and early 20th century instruments. The insights that he gained from this work have been incorporated into the construction of modern handmade guitars and made David one of the most sought-after luthiers today. David continues the "old school" philosophy of one person making the whole instrument for a perfect balance of tone, harmony, and quality control.
If you have only played mass-produced instruments, or guitars that are quickly "hand made" in a factory by many people, you are in for a wonderful experience. Words cannot express the beauty and tone of a handmade guitar crafted by a single luthier.
When asked about the benefits of his design innovations, Schneider says:
"I never sacrifice tonal quality for volume. Often guitars that are really loud up close don't carry very well in a concert situation. Projection and sustain should never be sacrificed for volume up close. Loud guitars that do not project well often have a steely sound that is unbalanced and lacking in purity. Owners of my guitars always remark on the full, balanced sound that carries into the farthest corners of the room. This is especially important in a group of instruments where a clear leading voice is important.
"A superior guitar will go beyond just long sustain it will have long sustain with a smooth decay. Smooth decay is accomplished by being well balanced between the fundamental note and the overtones, with neither part of the tone dominating the other. With this kind of sound, you can add a quality of expressiveness to your music that will sweep your listeners off their feet."
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For some incredible photos of his guitars, check out the website at www.schneiderguitars.com .