Conversations with Elyse Kautz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elyse Kautz

Hi Elyse, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I first formed the interest of working in the guitar repair field around 6 years ago in a small guitar shop here in Athens. I then moved forward onto an apprenticeship with a well known luthier named Dan Erlewine for about 5 1/2 years. He taught me a lot throughout the years. It then led me onto having the own desire to start my guitar repair business. I have a guitar shop in my home that I work out of throughout the week. I have owned this business now for a year and am slowly growing as time moves forward. It’s a very exciting, rewarding and an overwhelming experience!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a difficult road. It’s a very technical and challenging job. It requires so many different aspects of carpentry and creativity. You have to be exactly accurate with each job and never miss a step otherwise you’re back to step one. So it’s extremely important to always be focused and attentive.

Another main reason why it has been difficult is because it is a very male dominated field which makes it harder for women to be taken seriously. There have been some occasions where it has effected my drive in this field but there’s always struggles no matter what career you choose.

When it comes to the business side I am still learning a lot and all that comes along with owning your own business. But, with the help of my partner who is also a business owner of 15 years he is able to help guide me through some of the ropes. I’m slowly watching my clientele grow and it’s a wonderful feeling. I only look forward to learning more through out the future and face whatever comes my way.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What I love the most about the work that I do is seeing the reaction of my customers when they get their guitars returned to them. My partner and I spend hours at a time trying to make the instrument play to the best of it’s ability and it just makes the job so worth it. I have always been so passionate about music and instruments and knowing I can bring that same joy to others through my craftsmanship is very rewarding.

I typically would say right now I’m known for my bone nuts and set ups. I love making bone nuts because they add a certain tone to the guitar which you can’t get from other nut materials. I take pride in the beauty of polishing and shaping them. When it comes to setups I strive in getting the best sound possible out of the instrument. I also believe that deep cleaning of the guitars is a huge part of a set up. It’s amazing how beautiful you can make a guitar look and sound. Fret work is also something I love to work on. I take a lot of pride in leveling and dressings. They can be difficult but it’s all worth it in the end.

I believe what makes me stand out is that fact that I’m a woman in this field and only work only for myself. I have only one other person that works by my side and that is my partner who definitely helps keep me balanced and grounded. We make a great team and I will always plan on our shop being just the two of us.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Stewart McDonald books
– Guitar Repair Guide
– Trade Secrets

Stewart McDonald videos
– Youtube Trade Secrets
– Dan Erlewine DVDs

Luthier peers
Apprenticeships

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @eemelissakautzz
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elyse.kautz/