For me, it is all about creating a one of a kind piece, a unique musical instrument with a personality and voice of its own.

 

I created Schmied Guitars out of my passion for music and the instruments that are used to make sounds and voices.  Cigar Box Guitars have been around for more than a hundred years. I was haunted by the first CBG I heard and played. The sound, the looks, the simplicity of the instrument and the nostalgia it evokes. I love the idea of bringing new life to otherwise discarded things and experimenting with new materials, different wood types and resonator boxes. I create ukuleles, banjos, acoustic guitars, tenor guitars, bass guitars, mandolins and some inventions that mix all of them in one instrument. 

 

I recycle cigar boxes, wood, tin cans, wine bottles and vintage hardware for my creations. Each instrument I create is unique, has a distinct sound and is a sure piece of conversation when displayed.