Nathaniel Rich Strings brings over 20 years of lutherie expertise to Hilo, Hawaii, where luthier Nathaniel Hollis Rich combines his background as both craftsman and performer to deliver exceptional instrument services. A graduate of San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Guitar Performance program, Rich developed a critical ear for tone and playability before training with renowned luthiers Ervin Somogyi and Gael Mckeon to master the art of guitar repair and restoration.

The shop specializes in custom boutique guitar builds, offering hand-crafted classical guitars and steel string guitars tailored to individual playing styles, along with luthier-built ukuleles. Rich’s dual perspective as a trained performer and skilled guitar tech allows him to approach vintage guitar work and restoration projects with particular insight into what modern players demand from their instruments.

His lutherie philosophy centers on creating and repairing instruments that truly serve each player’s unique style and sound. From intricate fretwork to complete restorations, Nathaniel Rich Strings provides comprehensive luthier services backed by decades of hands-on experience building, repairing, and restoring stringed instruments in Hawaii’s easternmost city.