I first became fascinated with resonator guitars when I was 18 years old, about the same time I started repairing stringed instruments.
   The job market dried up just about the time I was fresh out of school with degrees in Aviation Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering. Supported by family and friends, my musical career was launched as a teacher, stringed instrument technician and performer.
   As a road musician I became dissatisfied with the quality of available resonator guitars and focused my skills on design and construction of a next generation instrument, a guitar that would take advantage of new technologies and techniques while honoring the tradition of the Dopyera family.
   The first Beard resonator guitar was delivered to a customer in 1985. I’m pleased that the company has continued to innovate since that first guitar was delivered. Here are a few milestones of which I am particularly proud:

1985- First Beard Resonator Guitar built and delivered.

1986- Open soundwell designed.

1986- First large body resonator, the Beard E Model built.

1987- First Beard R Model built, derived from Mike Auldridge's pre-war Regal
1992-  First Josh Graves R Model built and delivered.

2000- First open body E Model delivered.

2003 - Beard spun resonator cones on market.

2004- Mike Auldridge receives the first Beard Mike Auldridge Signature Model
2004- The first of many Custom Beard coverplates are produced.

2008- Jerry Douglas signs on with Beard Guitars.

2008- Jerry Douglas receives the first Beard Jerry Douglas Signature Model.

Today Beard Guitars, LLC hand crafts fourteen square neck and round neck models.  My guitars are enjoyed by fans, serious amateurs and touring professionals. I am honored that amazing players like Mike Auldridge, LeRoy Mack, Jerry Douglas, and many other friends choose Beard guitars to play.