Meet the Maker: Robert Ruck

by Jonathon Peterson

Originally published in American Lutherie #93, 2008



Robert Ruck was one of the very first members of the Guild, and one of a handful of luthiers who attended our first convention in 1974. His passion for the music and culture of the guitar, his respect for its history, his hard work and dedication, and his prolific output have put him at the very top of his craft. I met him at our 1992 convention in South Dakota, where he spoke in detail about his building methods at that time (see AL#42 and BRBAL4). Fourteen years later, during the 2006 GAL Convention, we sat down over dinner and had this talk.


Before we get to guitar making, I want to find out what influences first turned you to the light side, the creative side.

As far as being exposed to anything artistic, my dad had a major influence in my life for sure.