Butterfield Lutes

Latest News and Upcoming Events

I have finally relocated my shop within the Seattle area, although I still need to make some adjustments with the
layout. I am realizing that a workspace is somewhat always in flux but at this point I am looking forward to just
unpacking the rest of the items from the move and getting back to work!

The 13-course Hoffmann with rosewood ribs and a triple pegbox after Jauck is finally completed. Photos can be
seen by going to the instrument page. At the moment I have four orders for 13-course Burkholtzer lutes, so I have
increased my waiting period. I still have plans to offer a 14-course theorbo after Buechenberg and a 10-course
lute of some kind in the future. Holding your breath not advised.

Recent News and Events

July 29-August 3, 2007
I participated in my fifth one-week summer seminar hosted by the Lute Society of America, this time in Vancouver,
BC. At this workshop, Sterling Price was playing my 13-course Burkholtzer with holly ribs and veneers, accented
with ebony. The feedback from the other participants was very positive.

April 28-29, 2007
I attended the Handmade Musical Instrument Exhibit at Marylhurst University in Oregon.

August 5-13, 2006
I took part in a summer workshop in England with David van Edwards. The group constructed a 14-course liuto
attiorbato (archlute) after Sellas, which was donated to the English Lute Society for use as a rental instrument.

Welcome to my website. I strive to use the best materials available when making my lutes, including European
pear and plum, snakewood, Madagascar ebony, birdseye maple, figured English ash, holly, Honduran rosewood
and mahogany, palisander, and Pacific Northwest yew.

I make an effort to follow historical methods. Roses and bridges are carved by hand. I turn my own pegs from
rosewood, plum, or boxwood. Nuts are made from bone, African blackwood, or lignum vitae. Quality hide glue is
used for all assemblies and instrument backs are finished with a traditional oil varnish.