The story started when I met Brian Hill in early 2025. We played phone tag for about a month before I started, we kept blowing each other off. When we finally got a phone call scheduled, he asked me to just drive up and meet him. He wanted to know if we’d even get along first of all, having being doing this by himself since 2014. We hit it off immediately. 

He was a phenomenal mentor. He was a natural teacher, to both me and the clients. The Evaluation Reports served as a way to fully learn the truth of the instrument, so that he could explain how and why to the client and show them all possible options. This was so he could provide an instrument to you that you truly love to play, year round. This was true with the free Check-Ups as well.

I apprenticed under him for almost 2 years before his passing, and during that time we evolved the business together to create something even more impactful for the clients. His faith in me as a luthier never once waned, even when my own confidence in myself did. He was always encouraging me to evolve my trust in myself, both personally & professionally. 

We discussed many plans for the future of our work together. The Bub n’ Bek’s name was his idea, as was starting a new business all together. 

I never wanted it to be about me, I have always preferred to be the guy in the back of the shop. I am a musician at heart, but I am not a performer. Brian continued to encourage me on this too, and my confidence about being in the so called ‘spot light’ when making simple phone calls & emails to clients; grew. He wanted to start fresh, and announce our partnership for the 2027 New Year. This was the next step for us as business partners, and I will continue on with our plans in his absence. 

Brian was an empathetic & strong leader, someone you could trust and rely on for many of us. He was our rock, our stability. He was a hard worker, and incredibly talented in his own right. He was passionate about the work he did, and he cared about who it impacted. Having being trained by him personally, he refined this common moral we had in me. I hope to bring the same passion and diligence to our clients & friends as he always did for you. 

This is why I am very proud to be finally opening of Bub n’ Bek’s Guitar Works, as I will carry on his legacy in supporting musicians and music lovers alike to create a safe space for joy & love in our communities. 

Thank you for reading and following me on this journey, along with being one of the many blessings Brian has brought and still continues to bring into my life.