Kip Elder - President/Luthier

Even with my experience and reputation for expert, detailed craftsmanship, I don't call myself a “Master Luthier” because I am constantly amazed that, no matter how much I learn, there is still so much I still have to learn!

I started tinkering with guitars many, many, many years ago when I was a mere lad. I would buy “kit” parts and assemble them, paint them in the garage and rock out.

I learned a lot and thank those guitars for their sacrifice! Things got a little more serious as a full-time musician, on the road in the bars. I basically couldn't afford to send my guitar to the shop every time it needed a tweak, so I learned from anyone who could teach me how to keep them up and running. As time progressed, I dove more deeply and got into actual construction methods.

I had a great teacher, Chris Lukasik, who bestowed most of his secrets onto me. The biggest trick he passed on was how to finish guitars with the old-school nitrocellulose lacquers. That has become something I am very proud of and glad to show off! Unfortunately, Chris passed away in 2005 before we could get this company fully off the ground. He was meant to be a huge part of this, so we strive to make him proud everyday.

I have been a guitar repairman for many years now. The experience that I have gained has been put into the engineering and design of all Starr Guitars. I still play and have a tremendous love for performing. Luckily I can make my own guitars!