Over thirty of the area’s top instrument builders will be exhibiting at the inaugural Mountain Acoustics Luthier Invitational Show (MALI), an event that is the first of its kind in western North Carolina. Jay Lichty, of Tryon-based Lichty Guitars, has been asked to be the Host Luthier for this event.  

 

“There are so many talented luthiers in the southeast. The organizers of MALI are gathering the best of the best together for one event where the public can see and hear great instruments and where the builders can meet and share ideas and insights. I am honored and excited to be a part of this event,” says Lichty. 

  

In his small Tryon workshop Lichty has crafted over 250 instruments that have shipped to over 20 countries since opening its doors in 2009. The current instrument line-up includes a wide variety of ukulele and acoustic guitar models as well as violins and violas. While most customers are casual players, Lichty has designed and built custom instruments for award winning artists as well. 

  

The upcoming guitar festival is happening Memorial Day weekend in Burnsville, NC. Traditional instruments of the Appalachians like the dulcimer and fiddle along with instruments less common to our region will be showcased. A complete listing of activities are available online at www.MountainAcoustics.com. 

 

– Submitted by Corrie Woods