Meet the Maker: Jayson Bowerman

by Tom Harper

Originally published in American Lutherie #120, 2014

few years ago at the Northwest Handmade Musical Instrument Exhibit held at Marylhurst University near Portland, Oregon, I was drawn to the workmanship and aesthetics of Jayson Bowerman’s instruments. I did not get a chance to talk with him until the following year. When we finally talked, I found Jayson to be a friendly, easy-going guy who is quick to pick up an instrument for an impromptu jam with anyone who is willing. His relaxed friendliness belies his strong drive and ability to come up with a well-considered plan to achieve his dreams. Jayson’s directed approach has gotten him into the arena of world-class professional kayaking and surfing, made him a very effective and respected community activist in his town of Bend, Oregon, and helped him rise from an intern at Breedlove Guitars to their Head of Research and Development. In 2010, Jayson launched out on his own and started Bowerman Guitars. In spite of running a one-man shop, Jayson still carves out time to ski, bike, stand-up paddleboard, and play fiddle and mandolin with his band, Pitchfork Revolution. I got to talk with him again in his shop about life and lutherie earlier this year. As we talked, Jayson demonstrated his prowess and efficiency by continuing to work at the bench without missing a beat.