I’ve been playing guitar for around 16 years, and my journey to becoming a guitar tech really began when I moved to LA to attend the Musician’s Institute. Growing up as a bit of a “play-hard” guy, I’ve broken my personal electric guitar four times, so by the fourth break, I figured it was time to learn how to fix it myself. Having grown up on a farm, I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and fixing things, so this became the perfect way to blend my skills with my love of music.

Artists’ preferences can vary widely based on their genre. Many of our clients are in the pop world, where clean tones are key so they tend to request things like Fender amps. But our rock and metal artists usually go for heavier gear and prefer brands like Mesa, Marshall, and Orange. This business is all about understanding the needs of the artists to help them have the perfect show.

To be a good guitar tech, adaptability and attention to detail are crucial. Every artist has their own style and preferences. I can give general setup suggestions, but it really comes down to individual needs. For instance, if someone plays hard, I need to give them a little more room in their setup to avoid buzzing. Knowing those details helps me cater to each musician’s unique sound.