Wgfhowsoninstruments Reviews 2

From the first enquiry, Will Howson responded quickly with phone calls. We agreed a specification and the banjo was delivered in the expected time. The build quality and sound is great and my wife (who doesn't even like banjos) loved the simple but tasteful inlay. Every part is hand made and although new, the instrument has a lovely vintage vibe. There was one minor issue with a slight buzz from the fifth string when played heavily. When I contacted Will, he phoned me straight back, discussing the issue at length. Because of the distance involved, he immediately offered to pay for a local luthier to look at it, but as it happens, with Will's advice, I was able to fix the problem easily myself. Now the only problem is that I can't put the damn thing down. I would wholeheartedly recommend Will who will build you a distinctive and beautiful instrument to your specifications at a competitive price.

Will Howson isn't just making banjos; he's sculpting sound. He may very well be the preeminent banjo artisan in Europe, and my search for comparable hand-crafted instruments has genuinely yielded no other builder whose creations warrant such an investment – they simply don't exist. Howson's banjos absolutely transcend mere imitation, comfortably rivalling the most esteemed North American luthiers in the realm of exquisitely crafted instruments. His approach is distinctly original, and despite the banjo's American origins, Howson imbues his instruments with a sonorous quality wonderfully evocative of the British Isles – their tone is truly, utterly sublime. Howson banjos represent a sophisticated evolution of a traditional design, seamlessly integrating contemporary refinements without compromising the inherent beauty, aesthetic appeal, and classic voice of the instrument. It's truly difficult to conceive why any discerning musician in Britain or Europe would seek a bespoke instrument from North America, incurring considerable import duties, when a luthier of Howson's unparalleled distinction resides right here on our shores. Howson instruments will undoubtedly be cherished heirlooms for those fortunate enough to own one.