Dear Customer:  

Your comments and feedback are important to us.  
Thanks to those below who have allowed us to share
their thoughts with the rest of you.  

NOTE:    In the customer letters below, you will sometimes notice an  XXXXX where another guitar company's name might have been.  We do this to show respect.  The guitar building community is a small one made up of many fine companies and many friends of ours. (Of course that doesn't mean we aren't making the best guitars(!!), we just would rather you make up your own mind about that!). 

----- Original Message ----- Sent: Monday, December 05, 2011 9:29 AM Subject: Re: Lefty Vintage SJ Hi Bonni, The received the Vintage SJ from Jerry on Saturday and just wanted to let you know how happy I am with it. It is everything I had hoped it would be and compliments the Mahogany SJ beautifully. I had a few people question whether it was wise to buy another SJ and have two guitars that were basically the same with the only variant being the rosewood instead of mahogany. But that was exactly why I wanted to do it and am very glad I did it. It has all the qualities I love about the Mahogany SJ, including the ease and comfort of play, along with an unmatched depth on tone but with the lush overtones and other tonal nuances of Rosewood, instead of the dryer woody tone of mahogany. I have always thought my Mahogany SJ was everything a good mahogany guitar should be, and the same can be said with the Rosewood model.  Thanks to you, Dana, and the whole crew for building such a wonderful instrument. By the way you were absolutely right about the DB signature package on the SJ, it looks great and I am very glad I went ahead with it. Now all I need is a Maple SJ to go with the mahogany and rosewood. .....maybe next year if Dana is offer it? Thanks again and have a great Holiday Season Best, Jeff

Here's an email we received from our friend and Bourgeois dealer Eddie Berman of Indoor Storm.  He forwarded it to us from his customer had just picked up his DB Sig Style "0". To: <eddie at indoorstorm.com> Sent: Thursday, August 04, 2011 5:52 PM Subject: Wow Hi Eddie, Bourgeois needs to come up with a new name for all of their guitars. It's not an OMC nor an O. They should all be called OMGs. Oh my god! What amazing guitars. I can't imagine what these things will sound like in a few years. I'm hoping that many years after I'm dead, my kids will pick them up and be motivated to devote themselves to them, even if it's late in their lives.  You're right. It will be a late night. Best, Larry And here's what we received one week later:   To: <info at pantheonguitars.com> Sent: Friday, August 12, 2011 2:25 PM Subject: Who said you can't strum it Hi Bonni, That little 0 is a wonder. Who said you can't strum an 0? While it absolutely shines with fingerstyle (bare fingers), I can strum it as hard as my OMC and it doesn't break up. More headroom then this 61 year old will ever need. It's a marvel of physics. Not sure how ya'll do it. Maybe a magic wand. Larry

To all the gang at Bourgeois guitars, I met Dana in 1976-77 when I lived in Brunswick and hung out at an amazing little music store called Welcome Home Music. Dana was the repairman at the time and I remember him showing folks the 2nd guitar he'd ever made, a 12-string he made for his mother (I think that was who it was for, but 35 years dims the memories a bit). I do recall it was a lovely instrument with a marvelous inlay on the headshock and I told myself that someday I'd own one of Dana's guitars. Around 2004, I found the custom all-mahogany OM on eBay, took a chance and was amazed when I won the bid! It arrived a few days later and has been my constant companion ever since. I swear that the very first time I tuned it up I was gobsmacked and my playing actually seemed to improve instantly! In 2008 I visited Klem's wonderful Cathedral Music (one of my favorite places of worship, despite the fact that I've only been able to visit once) and met the DS/C in Redwood and European/English Walnut. My wonderful wife gets all the credit for finding Klem's tonewood oasis and approving the purchase. The neck feels like butter and the tone is scrumptious. If you are in the Albany/Troy/Schenectady area, take time to visit Cathedral Music! (Hint: Take a bib! If you love fine instruments as I do, you'll drool over the wonderful examples of some of the finest builders working today.) I've said it before and I'll say it again, Dana and his crew of artists in Lewiston make some of the finest guitars being created today. Check for the nearest store that carries his guitars and try them and I am fairly sure you'll agree, the workmanship, artistry and tone cannot be beaten. Thanks again and I look forward to my next visit to Maine! John

Sent: Tuesday September 7, 2010 8:46 PM Subject: RE: Thanks & More Dana/Bonni,   Thanks to you and your team in building a really a great playing guitar. My 00 Custom Lefty, all Mahogany model ordered from West Chester Guitar is so versatile and actually quite loud  for such a small body guitar.  My other guitars, while from fine companies, just don't measure up to the way this Bourgeois 00 behaves. The build quality is exactly what you would expect and I am very happy. I especially like the fact that I can use 14 frets in a 00 size. Also, it is very appreciated that you do not charge extra just because of my left handedness.   I have seen a few Bourgeois shown with "sapwood streaks" and would be interested to know if you still have some wood with that characteristic available to build me another guitar.  Looking for an OM size this time (DB signature type). If so, please let me know and I will get another order out.   Thanks again for "alchohog"!   Jerry NOTE:  The follow-up to this email is that we found a beautiful set of Mad RW with Sapwood for Jerry and will be building him a Lefty DB Sig OM Sunburst with it!

To: 'Bonni Lloyd'  Sent: Friday, August 20, 2010 6:14 PM Subject: RE: Bourgeois Vintage OM spruce top question  I ended up getting a Bourgeois Vintage OM (Carpathian spruce/Indian Rosewood) online from The Podium in Minneapolis. After five days in my possession, I can say that I am both satisfied and impressed. My hat's off to Dana for his expert picking of tonewoods and top tuning, as well as to any of the other skilled luthiers in the shop who helped bring this outstanding guitar to life. I was primarily in the market for a good sounding, smaller bodied, fingerstyle guitar. But, of course, it doesn't hurt at all that this is also one gorgeous guitar to look at. I've owned several nice acoustic guitars, but the expert craftsmanship on this one is plainly evident as soon as you pick it up. There was obviously a lot of attention to detail.  The guitar was restrung just prior to being shipped to me. Between the brassy sound of the new strings and the normal opening up process that new guitars invariably go through, it took about three days of playing several hours per day to start showing hints of what it really can be. Now, on day five, it's starting to develop a wonderful richness, complexity and balance. I look forward to it coming into its full voice in the months ahead. As a result of this purchase, my only "problem" is that I've now decided I simply must have a Bourgeois Vintage Dreadnought. :) It will have to wait a year or so, but I intend to make it happen. Mike

September 7, 2009   Hello Bonni, Dana, and Crew,        In April of 2007 when I bought my Bourgeois Custom Koa OM I said "That's it, it's the only guitar I'll ever need or want."  Then in June of 2008 I took home #18 out of the 30 original Banjo Killers signed by both Dana and Bryan Sutton, again I thought to myself,  "Well I've got the OM and now a very loud Slope D so what more could I ask for."       There are times when I try desperately to stay away from Acousticmusic.org, times when I know that fate is trying to put a new guitar in my hands.  That happened again about a week ago.  I was bringing in a 1956 Martin  00-18 to show Brian and George, a guitar which I knew Brian would love and what did he do?  After he played it for awhile he said, "Fantastic, now it's my turn, sit here" and he put before me a brand new 00-18 Prototype that you guys made for the NAMM show using (I believe) his 1951 00-18 as a model.  As always, Acousticmusic.org was well worth the trip and is a great place to play and buy fantastic gutiars.      Bonni, this guitar could not be any better or more unique.  On the website it is described as having a BIG but Sweet mouth.  It does indeed have both but it's more than that.  The Adirondack top and mahogany back and sides give it a voice that is truly its own. It's hard to describe just how different it is.  Also, at first I described its appearance as beautiful but plain and now that I've lived with it a few days I've changed that description from plain to pure.  It captures the pure essence of a 00-18 from long ago but it has a new soul and is perfect in every way.  The neck profile just begs to be played and doesn't want to be put down!       Please note that in the background of my photo you see a Vintage Tweed custom Cedar Creek Case that Dennis at Cedar Creek made for my OM.  The original case was fine but the guitar was too beautiful to go into a standard black case.       Now the big problem with the 00 Prototype, how do I keep this from becoming my wife's guitar?  She may just want to adopt it from me.   Thanks again,   David   David Foster Seymour, CT

We are pleased to introduce you to a fine traditional Bluegrass Family band that owns and plays our guitars:  The Petersen Family Band from Missouri !  Check them out. Sent: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 9:20 AM Subject: Petersenfamilyband Our family band proudly plays 3 Bourgeois guitars in our performances. We have a Country Boy Deluxe, a Signature DB and a D-150.  We bought them at Morgan Music last spring and we love them.  Alvin Deskins at Morgan is a wonderful person as well as a great support for bands like ours. Our website is www.petersenfamilyband.com.

This just in from our friend and multi-Bourgeois owning player, Patrick Matteson.  Check PatMatt on line at www.patmatt.com  and at Songster: http://www.songstermusicdatabase.com/community/ Patrick_Matteson --- Original Message ----- Sent: Wednesday, July 01, 2009 11:58 AM Subject: Bourgeois Wow!  but I guess you hear that a lot.  What an amazing guitar.  I  remember when George Lowden started hand building again a couple of years ago and people were saying his new guitars were light years  better than the Avalon era guitars.  If my JOMC and SS Slope weren't  so wonderful I would say the same thing, not to mention my OMC.  It  just sounds clearer, brighter, deeper, richer, I could go on but I  have to go to work...  Thanks for the great guitar, thanks Dana for  building em.  Patmatt

----- Original Message -----   Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2009 12:30 AM Subject: A BUR-jwah at my house I recently acquired a Granadillo Vintage D. (SN 004188)  My highest compliments to you for a most excellent instrument.  WOW, what a great guitar.  I am indeed a lucky man.  Best wishes, and continue doin' what yer doin'. Just amazing work. THANKS!    Glen Grant, Music Educator

----- Original Message ----- Sent: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 4:29 PM Subject: Re: Your new Bourgeois Country Boy   Ellie: I apologize for being slow with the reply.  I like to take a few days to get to know my new guitars.  I will say that this Bourgeois Country Boy is just what I was looking for -- a powerful, mahogany dreadnought with a vintage appearance.   The red spruce top is one of the best I've ever seen and its tonal quality is simply wonderful.  It's a great addition to my lineup and one that I look forward to playing for years to come.   As taken as I am with the guitar, I was even more floored by the service of you all at Artisan.  The way you took the time to demo the guitar for me over the phone was a step I don't think any other dealer would even think to take.  I plan to visit your store in the future and I absolutely intend to buy again from Artisan.  It was a first class experience from start to finish and that is a rare thing these days. Thanks so much! G.R.T /  Winder, Georgia

Photos show Bourgeois player Jon who is the U.S. Navy and stationed in North Carolina.  He first emailed us in January to see about taking a tour of our shop while he was home visiting his home town in Sanford Maine.     (click on photos for bigger view) Here's what he wrote after he received his Vintage D. ----- Original Message ---   Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 12:32 PM Subject: SATISFIED CUSTOMER I purchased my guitar from Wildwood Music and bought it over the Internet. I was so confident in the Bourgeois name, that I decided to pull the trigger and purchase the guitar sight unseen. My Vintage D is a powerful guitar that has unlimited sustain and projection. I hope to add another guitar to the stable down the road and will undoubtedly purchase another Bourgeois. Thanks for all that you do.

April 6, 2009. Here is a picture of Keyshore Kodolikar he owns what we believe to be the first Bourgeois guitar ever sent to India!  And we are really pleased that he took the time to tell us about his experience. Keyshore resides in Goa, India and was introduced to music by the Late Ref Father Henry Torra, rector of Don Bosco Institute.  He is a self taught musician performing professionally since 1986.   Keyshore says: "The Bourgeois Vintage OM Madagascar, is the now the main guitar. It’s extremely well crafted with stunning woods and workmanship. The sound is well balanced, articulate with wonderful string separation.  The pick up of choice is a custom bone LB6 made by LR Baggs/Bob collosi. The LB6 seamlessly transforms the great acoustic sound of the Bourgeois to the PA naturally without any coloration. The Bourgeois is a wonderful guitar and is second to none."

April 6, 2009.  Our friends, Don & Marty at Wildwood Music are in the business of making people's dreams come true.  Here's a picture of  flatpicker Howard Sayre and his brand new D-150.  He told me that the only way he found to make this guitar stop ringing out was to put it in the case and close the lid!  That's how lively it is.

Sent: Friday, February 06, 2009 11:58 AM Subject: Thanks!! Just a note to say that Dana and crew build the finest guitars on the planet! I own a Brazilian Soloist with a highly bearclawed italian spruce. I also have a 2006 NAMM show JOM Madagascar/Adirondack. These are the only two guitars I will EVER need. In short every note sustains for minutes. Notes are clear anywhere on the neck and they are rich and full. There is so much overtone and balance to every note. It takes no effort at all for a note to ring. I have never experienced such a dynamic range with these guitars in any of the others I used to own. I am always in amazement when I hear the pure tone that comes out and I shake my head and say " How does he do it!) I regret having wasted money on all the other brands but in a way it makes me appreciate the tone and craftsmanship that comes with a Bourgeois! Thanks for finally putting my search for the "grail" to rest in these two spectacular instruments!   Mike

----- Original Message ----- Sent: Friday, October 24, 2008 12:09 AM Subject: Bourgeois Vintage OM Bonni, I really am not a groupie type guy, and I do not spend a lot of time blowing smoke up people's you-know-whats. However, I have to tell you and the gang there that they built one hell of a guitar when they built my Vintage OM serial number 004244. Whoever worked on it made magic. I have played acoustic guitar since 1971 and have owned dozens of guitars. This little guitar has the most amazing sound and floors me as to how after only 16 months, it seems to get better every month that goes by. Any touch of the strings whether finger picking or flat picking, the whole guitar vibrates and resonates into my hands and body. I feels alive. The overtones stay in tune and they decay in tune and a lingering, round "ringing" occurs.  Anyone who hears it wants to play it and they cannot believe how much sound and quality of sound comes from this body size. And it is easy to play! The neck is perfect. Intonation is also perfect anywhere on the fretboard. It has an amazing amount of bass punch to it and is balanced with a sparkling treble and the midrange is warm. If you knew how critical of sound and intonation I am with musical instruments, you'd be beaming with pride for what you accomplished in this one. Anyway, you probably hear things like this all the time, and I never do this gushing thing. However, you all did an amazing job on this one and it is so uniquely special that it will always be my favorite and it will be inherited by my daughter some day and in my will, I will forbid her to ever sell it or give it away. If she does, I will come back and haunt her! That is saying a lot. Thanks for making the instrument and I am blessed to have had the fortune to have found it when it arrived in the shop. I still cannot believe that it is only 16 months old and will get even better.  Steve  Cave Creek, AZ

Miles with Alvin Deskins in Morgan Music, Lebanon, Missouri.   ---- Original Message ----- Sent: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 3:23 PM Subject: my new guitar To: Dana & Bonni   I went up to Morgan Music last Saturday 8-16-08 to get my special order DB Signature Model Bourgeois Guitar, it was worth waiting for. Alvin Deskins was there to help me with all the details. I was the first to open the case. It was a great time. I played the guitar while Alvin played some banjo tunes. Some good friends of mine, Larry and Mary had just arrived right when I started to play my new guitar, we all had a jam session. It was a great time playing bluegrass music with my friends, Alvin, Mary and Larry.  My DB Signature Model is the most powerful guitar I have ever owned.  It has the sound I have always wanted in a guitar.   Thank you for custom building the guitar to meet my request's.       I have had a great experience, working with Bonni at Pantheon Guitars and with Alvin and Jenna at Morgan Music throughout this process.  I am very proud to own a Bourgeois guitar.  Thanks again to Dana, Bonni and all the folks behind the scenes.     Your friend Miles    8-20-08

----- Original Message ----- From: "John" Sent: Tuesday, August 12, 2008 12:59 PM Hi Dana, About a year ago I purchased an Engelmann top soloist from 12th fret in Toronto.  I have been blessed with the good fortune to acquire what I consider to be a good guitar collection.  But without a doubt your soloist is the one I turn to most often.  Its silvery tone and butter like feel is a marvel.  I truly hope to one day add one more to my collection the Slope D. Best of luck and thank you Regards John

Left shows Ella Rose & Grandad Rodger.  Click on pictures to see a close-ups of Ella Rose with her grandad and the guitar ----- Original Message ----- Sent: Tuesday, December 11, 2007 9:51 AM Subject: Re: Ella Rose   Hi Bonni,   You guys are simply amazing!  I brought home the “Ella Rose” guitar (the DB Jumbo designed and named for my granddaughter) two weeks ago.  It’s taken me that long to gather my thoughts enough to tell you how thrilled I am with it!   I’ve played guitar for over 40 years and have seen and played hundreds (maybe thousands?) of acoustics.  The Ella Rose is the most visually stunning guitar I have ever seen – nothing in my experience even comes close.  The wood combinations work so well together.  I’m convinced that Dana significantly upgraded each of the wood sets to make a special guitar even more special for our family.   The redwood top is so rich and dark – I didn’t know redwood could look like that.  The Koa binding is “flamey” from every viewing angle.  And the Brazilian rosewood back and sides – wow!  Beautiful straight grain – I didn’t know this quality was even available anymore.… and the inlays.  The fretboard Rose inlay is gorgeous!  The detail is just incredible.  Dana did a wonderful job of matching the Style 42 top border inlay to the fretboard Rose. click on photo for close-up   And finally, the tone.  After all – that’s the most important thing for most of us.  Let me just say that I had to revamp my recording setup because the “Ella Rose” just overpowered it compared to the guitars I was using for fingerstyle.  It is so powerful, so well balanced and generates such a wide frequency spectrum that I had to adjust to capture it all.  I asked for a guitar that could also handle light to medium strumming in addition to fingerstyle and this guitar can do it.  It is just a fabulous all-around guitar.    On a personal note – I just want to thank you, Dana and the entire crew for building a dream come true for me and my granddaughter.  You listened patiently to what I was looking for and made suggestions that turned out perfectly.  Your only concern was to get it right – and you guys nailed it!  I can’t thank you enough for the materials you selected and your painstaking care in every conceivable detail.  The workmanship is flawless and the care in building this masterpiece is obvious.  As I’ve said before – you guys are the absolute best at what you do.  You’ve given me a guitar that will always be a bond between Ella Rose and me – she’ll just have to wait 20 more years to own it.  My hope is that it will be a cherished heirloom for my family 100 years from now – I’m sure it will continue to be an elite, world-class instrument for at least that long.  Thank you for creating a piece of history for me.  My only dilemma is that our first grandson was born 3 months after Ella.  Well, after the guitar fund is replenished, you’ll be hearing from me.   Thanks again, take care – Rodger

Mike with his custom JOM.   (click on photo for a closer look) So nice, he wrote us twice ! ----- Original Message ---- Subject: thanks again! Dana and team, Yes, I sent you a "THANKS" and an "I'm IMPRESSED" already regarding my Custom JOM, Signature series. As I reflect on it and play it, I have become even more impressed by it and by your company. Here's why: 1) the guitar is built flawlessly. There is NOT a single piece of it that shows a rough spot at all. All edges come together smoothly and beautifully. 2) you don't waste your money or time on fancy things, but just put your all into the guitar. The simple warranty letter is a case in point, with no fancy letters, just a simple photocopy. 3) now my biggest problem, and that is when I pick up my Bourgeois first, I keep playing it! So I barely have time to play my National, and I really want to develop my slide guitar skills, too! I really do have a hard time putting it down, once I start with it. So thanks again :) (and keep it up, there are a lot more people that you can make happy!) Mike ----- Original Message ----- Subject: My new Custom JOM Dana and the Bourgeois team, I just received my new Custom JOM from Mountain Music Shoppe yesterday, and it was so exciting that my hands were trembling in their shop. Jim Curley, Mountain Music Shoppe owner, had told me a year earlier that Bourgeois is the best guitar made.  I took a second look and play. Now I get it! You have made another truly wonderful musical instrument! You know that you create beautiful guitars, both by look and sound. When I compare what I had with yours, I see the quality of craftsmanship, too, and can imagine what care you also put into the shape and tuning of the woods. I am so glad that you created the JOM model. It feels so much easier for me to play than a full-sized Dreadnaught with my narrower shoulders, and I really feel more relaxed with it. As I worked through the process of choosing which guitar, model and woods I wanted, Mountain Music Shoppe was patiently there answering all my questions and sharing their knowledge. You have a GREAT partner there, and I tell everyone to shop at that store and give your guitars serious consideration. I am really lucky that, with you and with Mountain Music Shoppe, there are great instruments nearby at an affordable price. Yours truly, Mike

Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2007 11:47 AM Subject: Re: Shorty Slope D Hi Bonni, Re Slope D, Short Scale: Immediate impressions, in no particular order: warm, plyable, woody, comfy, friendly, articulate, clear strong mids, firm woody bass end, shimmering trebles. Slope Short Scale is a combination of great features, short scale, slope shoulder, easy to hold, great looks - mine has some bearclaw, lovely 'pale burst', real oldtime feel & sound, but also a good all rounder. Strums, flatpicks & fingerstyle playing all feel great on this guitar. Have yet to use it live, - can't wait . . .have installed McIntyre feather (best pick up for any Bourgeois, in my opinion). So far, very good, - and I'm not easy to please! Best regards, Guy

Ed with his Signature D  (click on photo for a closer look) ----- Original Message ----- Sent: Thursday, August 02, 2007 10:36 PM Subject: Pictures Hello Bonni: I picked up my guitar last Friday. Don and Marty really had me expecting great things based on the phone calls, emails and excitement on their faces when I walked into Wildwood. I must say it was a little emotional when I opened the case. I wanted to see the label first - then take in the guitar itself. Like the Queen of Sheba said of Solomon's Temple, "the half was not told me." I was expecting a tone monster. What I heard was the bell like quaility from low to high up and down the neck I've only read about. I think you could breath hard on it and it would ring. To say I'm pleased with the sound would be a gross understatement. In fact, I toyed with getting it in Brazilian but I can't imagine it sounding any better. The real surprise came when I started to look at it. I was expecting tone over appearance. After all, that's how you promote the Signature D, right? The whiteness of the top due to the light amount of vintage toner set it apart from a room filled with high end instruments. The Madagascar Rosewood was just as unbelievable - quartersawn, incredibly straight and tight grained. If you have higher grades of Adirondack or MadRose, I would like to see them. This guitar is as beautiful as it sounds. Every little detail is as promised. I played it in church Sunday. I told the folks the story of how the guitar came to be then sang a song my mother used to sing in church when I was a child. There were several misty eyed folks who sang along. Please give Dana my deepest thanks along with anyone else who had a hand in this project. I'm attaching a couple pictures. Now you have a face to put with the name. Marty & Don at Wildwood Guitars (click for larger view) Be Blessed, Ed

May 26, 2007 To everyone at Bourgeois, I want to let you know how pleased I am with my new Vintage OM. I got it in early April at West Chester Music, where I have had my teaching studio for years. Since the store became one of your dealers, the guys there and I have enjoyed playing the various guitars as they have arrived; in fact we don't wait to try them because they don't tend to hang around long. Your guitars set a very high standard immediately. They sound great, look beautiful, and play very comfortably. Every guitar so far has been a winner.  Even with my sky-high expectations, though, I'm knocked out by my new guitar! Great neck, really good intonation (one of my personal must-haves), a truly flawless fit and finish (thanks for the cool unslotted bridge pins, which I usually have to install on other guitars;  I really think there's a difference), and spectacular tone. No tweaking needed on the setup; that's VERY rare for me. Really pretty wood, too, especially the Adirondack top. I'm getting great note separation on busy pieces, but wonderful sustain on chords at the same time. Bass notes are very clear, even way up the neck, and I can make them snarl when I want. Trebles are clear and fat. The balance is great and the guitar is responsive, loud, and full everywhere. It takes a capo just fine.  In fact, this combination of a really articulate bass with a clear but gutsy top end is a combination I've been trying to find for a loooong time. I've bought and sold several guitars (OM's, 000's, and a 00) in the process, including one that cost considerably more than this one, and was hooked the first time I lifted this guitar down from the wall. So, thanks for the amazing guitar, and for wrecking my budget last month (and at tax time, to boot)! I wouldn't have it any other way. Jay Scott

Hi Dana and Company, I am a former guitar roadie for Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band and former guitar roadie turned road manager for John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band. I now teach fifth grade in Fairfield, CT. I want you to know that I didn't go into Acoustic Music.org  in Gilford, CT today planning on buying a $4250.00 Bourgeois OM Custom guitar. Brain Wolfe just kept lining up OM guitars for me to try and I kept playing and trying and switching and eliminating instruments until it came down to a XXXX OM and a Bourgeois OM. There actually was no real choice involved because the Bourgeois was the Koa/Sitka OM combo that Brain said that he ordered from you in 2005 and took shipment of in 2006. It's beautiful and sounds fantastic but...I'm really not surprised that it was still there after some months on the floor and the wall because I'm a firm believer that certain guitars and people being fated to be together. When Brian brought the Bourgeois out for me to see he said, "Do you want to see the most beautiful OM that I have in the shop?" It was so beautiful that I was stunned that he was going to let me play it. As I worked it through the group of guitars that I was playing I honestly wasn't letting myself love it too much because I wrongly assumed that it would be at least $7500. When it came down to asking the dreaded question of...how much...Brian replied that, "It's not as much (bad) as you might think." Once I knew the prices I did another go around with both guitars just for fun. I then took my wife to a local resturant  and Linda said, "What do you want to do?" I told her that I'd love to buy the Koa Bourgeois and she said the words that every husband wants to hear..."Then why don't you do it?" It helps that she plays guitar and is a great songwriter (as well as being beautiful!!). I called and said..."I'm going to take the Bourgeois Koa."  Having just played two Norman Blake OMs, a Clapton OM and a Marquis OM at a friend's house in R.I. this week I feel that I've had the opportunity to play some very nice guitars of late. Mine though, is hands down, the most wonderful of the bunch. Thanks you for showing me that there is more than one brand of guitars for me in the world.  Thanks again, David Seymour, CT

December 18, 2006 To All at Bourgeois Guitars:  It is hard to describe my satisfaction with my new Bourgeois Country Boy Dreadnought, serial number 003990! I bought the guitar a week ago at Mountain Music Shoppe.  I played guitar extensively about 25 years ago, but sadly gave it up because of a demanding career. I also sold guitars in my youth at a store in my hometown. We sold the finest instruments on the market at that time. I did not think they made guitars like that anymore. When I decided I wanted to play again, I could afford only one guitar, which would most likely be a "lifetime keeper".  Foolishly, I initially bought what most might consider a "fine guitar" from a renowned "factory" maker, thinking it would be sufficient. But, I was eventually dissatisfied. I should have known there really was something missing with the "new post modern style" factory built guitars. Consistency might improve other products, but not musical instruments! As you discuss on your website, each instrument really does have its own personality.  When I finally took a chance and played my Country Boy, I knew within minutes that I had to own it. Nothing less would do. I decided it did not matter whether or not I thought I could afford it.  I will most likely keep this guitar for the rest of my life unless I can eventually afford a better Bourgeois mahogany dreadnought. In my opinion, the Country Boy is probably the best "all around" mahogany dreadnought available.  Thanks very much to everyone who had a part in building my guitar! I will treasure it.  Chris  Overland Park, KS

----- Original Message -----  To: Bonni Lloyd  Sent: Wednesday, December 06, 2006 8:30 PM Subject: Re: Slope D I paid off the balance owed on my new slope D and brought it home on Sat., Nov. 25. I'm thrilled with the guitar - everything: the look of it with its elegant lines, the woods, the finish ... the very strong, very clear tone that is not too rich and not too vanilla ... the neck contour which fits my hand perfectly with comfortable string spacing .... . Thanks for giving it a waist that's slim enough to make it reasonably comfortable to play seated, though I usually stand. Thanks for giving it tonal balance to suit a finicky fingerstylist. To summarize, it is all I hoped it would be.  Paul

Sent: Tuesday, November 14, 2006 5:55 PM Subject: DB Signature D I just purchased a Signature D from David Wren at The Twelfth Fret in Toronto. What a wonderful guitar.  My decision to buy was instant.  This guitar is unlike any that I have played from Pantheon.  It has an edgier attack than I expect from Bourgeois and the Adirondack top is uncommonly responsive to a light touch.  Already, it sounds as open and lively as I like.  To my ears, the balance of fundamentals and overtones from this guitar is near perfect and it has the clearest bottom end of any dreadnought I have played.   The visual aesthetic of this instrument is also outstanding with its flamed maple binding and Dana’s custom herringbone purfling.  I particularly like the ivory inlays – that is a very nice touch.  The spider-webbing of the quartered Madagascar back and sides used on this guitar is as nice as any I have seen in this species. The Signature D can dominate the gap between East Indian Rosewood and Brazilian, and in my house I expect it will get played more than either.  Good luck trying to keep up with the demand.

Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2006 1:36 PM Subject: Slope D - Burst Finish Adirondack I just received a Slope D serial no. 3950, which I purchased from Acoustic Music Works who made it a great experience.  I have to tell you that this guitar is all that I could have possibly asked for.  It is exactly what I was looking for.  Notwithstanding that it is a drop dead gorgeous guitar, the sound is so sweet, I couldn't believe my ears.  It just sings.  Thank you for building such a beautiful instrument.  My guitar and I will be singing your praises for many years to come. Dav

Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2006 10:51 PM Subject: Bourgeois OMS... Hello: I just received a new OMS with highly figured mahogany back and sides and an adirondack top that I bought from Pioneer Music Co. in Portland, Oregon. I live in the wilds of Alaska where there are no such animals like this OMS I'm holding. I have never been so impressed with a guitar's tonal quality and wood selection as with this OMS. The figured mahogany alone is something I could stare at for hours were it not for the fact that I love to play this thing. This guitar is perfectly balanced in every way: The tonal quality is almost unbelievable to hear, and the figured mahogany is visually complemented perfectly by the adirondack top and the vintage Waverly tuners. Moreover, this OMS is an absolute joy to see, to hear and to play, and it will be my blue heaven until the day I die. Good show ol' man! Ron

To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Friday, August 25, 2006 5:36 PM Subject: Custom Slope D Sunburst Hello to Mr. Bourgeois and all the fine Luthiers at Pantheon: Earlier this month I was fortunate enough to purchase a Bourgeois Custom Slope D Sunburst from David Wren & Grant MacNeill @ The Twelfth Fret in Toronto. Since I live in Winnipeg, I had to rely on their photos and description of this guitar over the internet. Not a problem really, since these are great guys to deal with and their web-site has some of the best photos and descriptions of any I’ve seen! However, even the high quality artistic photography and description listed could not hold a candle to actually SEEING and PLAYING this guitar! I have admired Bourgeois guitars (from afar) for some time now, but have never had an opportunity to play one – until purchasing this model. Well done! The fit and finish are impeccable, the sunburst is finished to give the illusion of great depth to the top, and the sound is remarkable right out of the box. This validates every good thing I have heard about Bourgeois/Pantheon and then some. Thanks to The Twelfth Fret for selling this guitar to me and for having such great people to deal with. And a special thanks to everyone at Pantheon who obviously treat their daily work as something very special – it shows! Sincerely  Robert

----- Original Message ----- From: "Rodger"  To: "Bonni Lloyd"  Sent: Sunday, July 02, 2006 4:25 PM Subject: Re: Country Boy Deluxe Information    Hi Bonni: Please disregard my last e-mail - I know where the CB Deluxe is.  I picked it up at Wildwood on Saturday.  It is absolutely magnificent!!!!  The wood is drop dead gorgeous, the workmanship flawless and the tone is to die for.  I had very high expectations and you guys managed to exceed all of them - from the Brazilian headstock overlay and the best Adirondack top I've ever seen to the stunning quilted mahogany back and sides.  The tone is everything I listen for -  I can't wait to record with it.  Please tell Dana and the guys that built this masterpiece that they are the best at what they do!  Thanks - Rodger

From: "William Hite"  To: <info@pantheonguitars.com> Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 7:43 PM Subject: Bourgeois OM Custom Serial Number 003325 Dear Dana Bourgeois & Pantheon Guitars,  Re: the above wonderful guitar  I must tell you this: I am the proud owner of the "other" OM Custom that you made for Ricky Skaggs. My Lord what a guitar! I marvel at the sweet woodiness of the tone, the range of tones and the power! (I let Steve Kaufman play it for a while. I took one of his two-day classes. His comment was, "I guess Ricky kept the bad one!") I am a writer and don't ordinarily use exclamation points. Yet they fit perfectly here. I love the sound of this guitar, and it is so easy to play, maybe not like Steve Kaufman played it but easy nonetheless. I purchased the guitar from Paul Heumiller's Dream Guitar store in North Carolina. I am pleased beyond description. I will play it until I die. Then it is my daughter Jennifer's--herself a flatpicker. Thank you and God bless. Regards, William "Bill" Hite

To: "Bonni Lloyd" <info@pantheonguitars.com Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2005 5:50 PM Subject: Aloha Hi Bonni, Just want to say hi and thanks again to you, Dana, and the entire crew at Bourgeois for my wonderful sounding, feeling and looking guitar. I can't think of anything that wouldn't sound corny to say. I guess the fact that it's the first thing I reach for when I get into the house pretty much speaks for itself... Aloha, Bruce

----- Original Message -----  To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2005 5:40 PM Subject: Guitar #3536 Dana and staff,  Along the way to saving for a D-150, I had the occasion to play  a locally offered mahogany Country Boy with a adirondack top. I was  amazed at not only the instruments volume and tone, but its complexity  of sound as well - a usually lacking feature and a knock I've always  carried against mahogany guitars. That experience got me thinking  about one of the most beautiful instruments I had seen grace your fine  website recently. So after being assured by Les Haynie of Blue Moon Music in Arkansas that I could return the guitar if it didn't live up to my expectations, I purchased guitar #3536. I can't even describe the quilted mahogany. The photos are nice, but just can't capture the warmth and the depth of the veining.  It literally looks like 1/4" canyons below the mirror flat surface. Mated with its adirondack top, this guitar is everything it's local bretheren offered both sonically and visually and more.  I have been seeking one of your fine guitars for over three years, and just wanted to drop you a line on how proud you all should be for the functional artwork you create.  I'm just starting to realize that I'm no longer just a Bourgeois fan.  I'm a Bourgeois owner!  thanks again,  Brian M. Szuch  Westerville, Ohio

----- Original Message -----  To: <info@pantheonguitars.com> Sent: Monday, August 08, 2005 6:47 PM Subject: Bourgeois OM #003197 Just wanted to drop you a line and tell you how pleased I am with a custom OM purchased from Acoustic Music Works (Steve Miklas). The guitar is wonderfully light and responsive with a truly striking appearance. I've been playing for a lot of years (40+) and this custom OM is one of those "special" guitars that keeps driving us back to music stores. Steve Miklas is a tireless Bourgeois booster and an all around good guy to do business with. I was so impressed with the OM and Steve that I ordered a Bourgeois Advanced Slope D as well. Can't wait to get my hands on it! Best Wishes, Jim Janssen San Diego, CA

To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2005 1:21 PM Subject: bourgeois guitar Dear Dana and crew, I recently acquired a Bourgeois Vintage D. This is the finest guitar I have ever owned. I have owned high end guitars from several other makers in the past, but this guitar outshines them all. It's construction and tone are second to none. Thank you for building such a fine guitar. Sincerely, Kevin  Moomaw

From: Mitch Tabol To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Wednesday, February 16, 2005 10:30 PM Subject: Your Services Are No Longer Required Dear Dana, Over the past four years I have been privileged to own six Bourgeois guitars. My present two Bourgeois' include a Country Boy Deluxe and a Brazilian/Adirondack Slope D with vintage appointments. These are both exquisite and tonally perfect guitars. Between the two they cover every musical situation I've encountered, from practice to stage to studio. I am mature flatpicker and over the past forty years I've owned eighteen high-end acoustic guitars from various makers. My CB Deluxe and B/A Slope D are rated at the very top as far as I am concerned. So unless you dream up another spectacular guitar, I respectfully say that you have worked yourself out of a job. I am extremely pleased these instruments and am presently cured of guitar acquisition syndrome. Thank you again. All the best to you and yours, Mitch Tabol  PS: I have modified the B/A Slope D slightly with a fossilized elephant ivory saddle and bridge pins and the guitar sounds like it's on steroids. I stayed with a bone saddle and pins on the CB Deluxe as not to make it too bright.

Subject: Vintage OM The guitar is, in one word, sweet. It is dangerous for me to pull it out at night. I say to myself, "When the news is over, I'm putting it away." Then it becomes, "When Letterman is over, I'm putting it away," and sometimes beyond that.  I tried many, many OMs and when I got this one, I was hoping it would stand up to the average of the group, something along the lines of a Martin OM-28V. Instead, it has exceeded all my expectations and expanded my definition of what an OM is capable of.  Thanks to Dana and the whole team at Pantheon for getting this great guitar into my undeserving but appreciative hands.  Matt

----- Original Message -----  To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Thursday, September 30, 2004 10:55 AM Subject: Yet another flatpicking great... Man, you guys are good…I find it an undeniable testament to the quality of Bourgeois instruments that an increasing number of flatpicking greats' shortlists of main guitars read something like: my vintage Martin and my Bourgeois--and sometimes it's the other way around! In addition to the stellar players already on your players list, you can, and by all means should, add Scott Nygaard. Scott, who is an incredible soloist, sideman to multiple bluegrass greats, and editor of Acoustic Guitar magazine, officially became a Bourgeois player/owner with the acquisition of a 2004 Country Boy Deluxe (Cocobolo/Adirondack). Cheers! I hope all is well in Lewiston. Big fan and aspiring owner...  Travis

----- Original Message -----  To: info@pantheonguitars.com  Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2004 4:46 AM Subject: Feedback on my new Slope D I’ve recently received a custom Slope D (bearclaw sitka top, beeswing mahogany back and sides) that I ordered through The Acoustic Music Company in the UK. I thought I’d let you know that it’s the best guitar I’ve ever owned. I’ve had a sound in my head that I’ve been looking for for years. I’ve tried Martins, Gibsons, Taylors, Guilds, Lowdens, Lakewoods and many others without any real success. I was amazed to find that the Bourgeois Slope D has the exact sound I’ve been looking for. It’s a superb guitar. I will definitely be buying another Bourgeois – soon! Best wishes, Richard

----- Original Message -----  To: "Bonni Lloyd"  Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2004 6:17 PM Subject: Guy' Country Boy Hi Bonni, Received my Country Boy Deluxe yesterday.  What can I say about the extraordinary Adirondack top & beautifully figured mahogany back & sides? Apart from looking great, the sound coming from this guitar is like a Country Boy on steroids! It is very responsive to a light touch and when flatpicked hard produces clean cutting fat trebles, but with a warmth and roundness in the mid and low frequencies. Well balanced and very powerful when played hard. The overall sound to my ears is classic dry mahogany with pre-war bite. This is a serious bluegrass instrument. Needless to say the finish is up to the normal Bourgeois standard of excellence.  Now in a year or two . . . . . Please pass on my thanks to Dana & the team. Many thanks, Guy

Sent: Wednesday, August 04, 2004 10:33 PM To: sales@elitemusicsales.com Subject: Re: Bourgeois D150 Brian, Had practice tonight with our acoustic trio, didn't say anything about the new guitar, and just started playing when they weren't looking. Everyone dropped their jaws and instruments, and said "Hey wait a minute, what IS that?"  The sound floored everyone. My bandmate's wife walked in from the other room and wanted to know what guitar I was using, because it sounded so amazingly rich and 'different'. The tone and reverb and the clarity of the notes and the rich bass and perfect mids and treble and perfect balance...and the top and particularly that Brazilian are unbelievably beautiful. In short, a keeper for life, an amazing instrument, and probably some of the best money I ever spent. Thanks again for hooking me up with a life-changing instrument, which will have me enjoying the moment for many years to come. The only problem is I have work tomorrow and I have absolutely no interest in sleeping. I just want to play some more. And so I will. Have a great one, and thanks for showing the same enthusiasm for your customers that you must have for your music.  This is a match made in heaven. Best Regards, Jerry

Date: 2004/02/07 Sat PM 12:47:37 EST To: <info@pantheonguitars.com> Subject: Bourgeois OM Dear Dana--I just wanted to tell you how pleased I am with my Pantheon guitar! I have been playing guitar off and on for almost 40 years and I have played many wonderful guitars! But there is something mighty special about your OM Pro series guitar- It just sings!!!  I purchased this guitar mainly because I wanted a smaller bodied guitar for comfort and knew I would probably give up some volume- but not with guy! It has volume in spades.  I also wanted a guitar I could keep and treasure and pass along to my Children--Well I found it! Thanks Dana and the folks at Pantheon for creating such a special instrument!!! Sincerely-Ken

Sent: Saturday, December 27, 2003 2:10 PM Subject: New Country Boy Dear Dana,  I just wanted to email and say thanks for a job well done. Last week, I went to Morgan Music in Lebanon MO, with the full intention of buying a XXX guitar. I started out playing about 10 guitars, and quickly narrowed the field to 3. I was very pleasantly surprised by the deep bass response from the Country Boy, and when I worked my way up the neck, your guitar left the XXX in the dust both for playability and tone. The workmanship also was superior and apparent to even a layman such as myself. I look forward to lots of years of playing, and listening as the guitar opens up even more over the years. Thanks for your attention to detail, and all the years of experience I know it takes to produce a guitar like this. I’m kind of a “one guitar guy”, and probably won’t buy another guitar for 20 years (or ever), and look forward to many enjoyable hours of playing my Country Boy. Sincerely,  Drew

----- Original Message ----- To: blloyd@pantheonguitars.com Sent: Monday, December 29, 2003 5:45 AM Subject: thanks Dear Bonni: I am writing to tell you how pleased I am with my Bourgeois Vintage OM. It is a gorgeous sounding instrument and very versatile. Not only that, but it is also stunning to look at. The top, in particular, is the most beautiful piece of Adirondack I have ever seen. Best of all, however, has been the service that you, John and Dana have provided. Your caring and quick response make the ownership experience complete. Keep up the good work! Sincerely,  Jim Glazer

October 16, 2003 Subject: GGLJA: A Plethora of Pantheon (Guitars)......  Posted by Michael A. Wong on 2003-10-05 To read Michael Wong's 13th Fret review of 3 guitars: A Country Boy Deluxe, Brazilian OMC and a Curly Koa OMC, CLICK HERE.

March 2003 "Just got the best guitar I've ever played or owned, and maybe the best guitar I think I will ever get to play. I haven't purchased a guitar since the mid 1970s, and this was worth every dollar I paid for it. I got a Bourgeois Vintage D with Brazilian Rosewood, Adirondack top, waverly tuners and not fretboard inlay. This guitar has the tone of an old Martin but with more tonal range, more dynamic range...plays perfectly in tune everywhere. Not one wolf tone on the whole instruments. From top to bottom the tone is warm, clear and rich. This thing responds to the lightest touch or the heaviest hand with equal eloquence. It's really hard to explain, but this guitar allows me to play things that I could previously only imagine. My playing is already feeling like it is at the beginning stages of a quantum leap and it is all because of this guitar. I love this feeling. " I think Bourgeois, if this guitar is any indication, is building the most incredible guitars being commercially built and sold. I played several and they were all really great instruments...".  Scott Fore - 2002 National Flatpicking Champion

Date: 2003/03/17 Mon PM 05:22:39 EST To: info@pantheonguitars.com Subject: Custom Indian Rosewood D-150 I thought I would drop you a line to let you know how pleased I've been with my D-150. I had been intrigued with the distinct sound of Bourgeois guitars on bluegrass CDs, most notably on Ricky Skaggs' projects... when I'd hear the Bourgeois on the recordings I'd think, "Damn; that is a FINE sounding guitar.  I figured I'd try one out just to see what all the hub-bub is about. Well, I played a couple of notes on this D-150 and my friend who was with me said it at the same time I thought it to myself: "It sounds like the Ricky Skaggs CD!". I bought it on the spot, spur of the moment.  People have commented that it sounds like "the Perfect guitar";  responding equally well to a light touch, slick flatpicking, or heavy rhythm.  I've never before played a guitar that SOUNDS so similar to what the pros sound like on the recordings. Bourgeois really does have a unique and POWERFUL sound. Such clean midrange punch. I plan to purchase a Slope D next year. Please pass on my comments and my thanks to Dana. Best, Jeremy Huber Buffalo, NY

November 4, 2002 Dear Dana,  I was visiting my good friend Gary Filgate of Acoustic Outfitters in Stratham, N.H. and there it was, a Vintage Dread with what I consider to be the best looking Brazilian I have seen in quite a while. It was #5045 which I had seen on the web site. After wiping the drool off my screen, I decided to take a ride down to Gary’s to look at it and give it a go. Not only was it beautiful but it had the tone/voice to back up the good looks! Well, I now own the guitar and I couldn’t be happier. I have quite an assortment of guitars and I have to tell you that this new one went to the head of the class right away. I certainly do not want to indicate in any way that the guitars I have are any less than outstanding, I just want to get the point across about how I feel about the new one. Once I played the Brazilian I knew this was the ONE. The feel of the neck and the playability was fantastic. The fit and finish was superb. I can’t tell you how happy I am with this high grade guitar that I can pass down to my kids and so on. This is what I would call A REAL KEEPER!!!  Sincerely,  Dan Willette

Date: 2002/09/30 Mon PM 02:48:14 EDT To: <info@pantheonguitars.com> Subject: Limited Edition Slope D Hey! Last week I purchased a limited edition Bourgeois Slope D (14/50) serial #002112 from Buffalo Bros. I have to tell you that this is one beautiful guitar. The workmanship is flawless and the voicing of this instrument is perfect. I know that it will only improve with time it's a perfect companion for the JOMC I acquired earlier this year. I play mostly in churches in the Carolinas. My music is a grand mix of "folk" music, hymns, spirituals, gospel and the like, played in a variety of styles. I mostly play the JOMC fingerstyle in alternative tunings. The Slope D I'll mostly flatpick and I plan to put it to work this week. You may add my name to your list of satisfied customers - and may consider this an endorsement of your fine products. Keep up the great work!  Sincerely,  Luke  Summerville, SC

From: "Christian Smith"  Date: 2002/10/07  To: info@pantheonguitars.com Subject: jomc #2385  Just recently I purchased a Bourgeois jomc #2385 from Pat Rutland in Valdosta Georgia.  I must tell you that my life is now one that is forever ruined... I will never be able to pick up another instrument and not be aware of the meticulous attention that was paid to the guitar I now own.  I have in my possession one of the finest instruments I have ever played.  I want to thank you for paying such close attention to detail.  The craftsmanship is superb; this is evident not only in the appearance of the guitar but also its tone. The instrument is possibly one of the most tonally balanced guitars I have played. I have had needed no sound adjusting when recording the instrument. (which can be a major problem even in high end guitars)  Thanks again,  Christian Smith

Date: 2002/06/28 Fri AM 10:35:28 EDT To: "'infoatpantheonguitars.com' Subject: Left handed DS-260-Wow..Thanks John Good morning John, Just wanted to drop you a quick note, and say, "Thanks and WOW"...I recv'd my lefty DS-260 last night from Buffalo Brothers. The guitar is incredible!!! The fit and finish is perfect, and beautiful. I have never seen multi colored Indian rosewood like is on this guitar, and I've looked at hundreds of guitars in my 46 years. It's unbelieveable. I bet there is a dozen colors in it, from a goldish color to the usual brown. Is this an unusual? The top is great also. Lots of silking, which I wasn't expecting, because I've always heard adirondack is supposed to be very plain. Not true in this case. It sounded great right out of the case. I can only imagine how it's gonna sound a couple of years from now. Please tell your guys, and Dana, thank you and great job. Regards, Rick

From: "Kevin Gallagher"  Date: 2002/06/06 Thu PM 12:02:49 EDT To: infoatpantheonguitars.com Subject: Great guitars! Dana and all the guys at Pantheon, I was able to play one of your guitars earlier this week. It was a  beautiful sloped shoulder Dread that was a piece of art. All of the woods  and appointments were so beautifully matched that you really didn't need to pick it up and play it to appreciate it, but I did anyway. Awesome tone just seemed to pour out of it. Sparkling high end perfectly balanced with the tight immediate bottom and a surprisingly complexed harmonic carriage under it all. It was trademark Bourgeois tone and design in every aspect. Thanks to Dana, Patrick and all the others there for raising the bar again  for luthiers.  Regards, Kevin Gallagher/Omega Guitars Saylorsburg,PA

Subject: one huge fan Dana,  After being a XXXX fan for many years, and now having purchased one of your guitars, I'm convinced you are a genius, based mainly on the article "Tapping Tonewoods."   XXXX does have something special--especially price--but you are correct in writing that sound is the most important thing, and your guitars sound incredible. We bought an old house in Thomasville, GA, and are in the process of restoring it, but one thing I won't touch is these old hardwood floors, because I take my Bourgeois in the guest bedroom with a fresh set of D'Addarios  and guess what?--I'm transferred to the third heaven, or whatever they call it! You're a genius, man. Myself, I'm just a player, fairly advanced, a songwriter for the past 22 years or so (I'm 42 now), and a good singer, If I can say that modestly. I self-produced an album of original songs in 1998, and I want to do another one LIVE AT THE FOGGY BOTTOM CAFE (locally) just for fun. A miked Bourgeois will definitely be recorded. I wouldn't dare put a pickup in the thing. I'll try to get you a copy when the project's over later this summer.  Take care, friend....Joe Gunter

"Dear Mr. Bourgeois,  I want to thank you & your crew for building phenomenal guitars! More exactly, thanks for making OMC Sean Watkins #3/25 into such a fantastic instrument. I’ve played guitar for way too many years and this one is the best sounding, feeling & constructed guitar I’ve had the privilege to own. I am not kidding. There is nothing I would change about it, sonically or design-wise. This has never been the case before, even with other ‘high-end’ guitars. I am only just waiting for the Adirondack to finish opening up. I want to also complement you on the woods you used; they look to be quite closely quarter sawn. I’ve seen & owned closely quartered spruces before, but I can tell the rosewood is a cut above what I’ve ever owned or usually see …. small ‘silky’ lines evident. Since I've flatpicked various small bodied guitars since the 1980s I was really excited about getting an OM specifically built for this playing style. So far I can tell you did something right. It works really well, but the main point is that whatever you did helps & inspires me to find new spaces in the music …no other guitar I’ve owned has been so inspiring and ‘facilitating' of inspiration. Again thanks for the great guitar and the contribution your knowledge has made to today’s ‘golden age’ of amazing guitars. Sincerely, Kerry Spokane WA"

Subject: Thanks Dana, Last year a co-worker brought to work one of your JOMC masterpieces. It has changed and increased my love for the guitar tenfold! I had no idea an acoustic guitar could sound and play so beautifully. I didn't have much of an appreciation for the Acoustic Guitar until seeing your guitar firsthand. I have since put my Electric Guitar on the back burner. My CD collection has been overhauled - Only Acoustic Music is found in my Truck nowadays (Keaggy, Legg, Segovia,Gerhard, etc.....). I spent over 3 hours at Wildwood Music in Coshocton, Ohio pouring over all the Guitars at my disposal. While most 'high-end' Guitars have a good sound, they all are such different 'animals' so to speak. I kept returning to the OMC of yours that was  so enjoyable to play. While I continue counting my pennies, be sure that your Guitar is at the head of the class. Again I just want to thank you and your gift. While my musical abilities are far to limited to consider one of your masterpieces, my new found love for this type of music has me working overtime to reach that level. Have a Good Day! Larry"

" I forgot to mention the neck. Not only does it feel and look great and play easy, but I have never seen Mahogany like that. Beautiful. The way the grain shows off at the head in particular. The woods used are a perfect combination for aesthetic value. The contrast in the padauk, ebony, mahogany and curly maple is just outstanding. Okay, I'm think I'm finished now..... Randy"

"...I must, however, compliment you on the very high-quality of this instrument. It is a JOM and has a Cedar top and mahogany sides. The cedar is the nicest that I have ever seen in the mahogany is beautifully done. The intonation as you go up the neck is perfect.  Best of all, the sound is wonderfully rich and complex. It is very unusual to have a warm and deep base response and still have such clarity on each string and a strong mid-range presence. Perhaps this is due to the combination of cedar and mahogany put together with your attention to voicing and musicality. I will enjoy this guitar for many years, Thanks Charlie"

          Page last updated: Dec 6,  2011