Some news. Ok. Deep breath. I'm sad to announce that I'm leaving the Lowden Guitars family. I have adored my beloved Lowdens as they've helped shape the sound of my music and accompanied me on global adventures, at times my only friend and confidant in a remote backstage area or hotel room, for 20 years.  

When Lowden offered me a signature model, even my ruinous self-doubt could not deny the feeling of respect and validation that gave me, and I can never thank them enough for that. 

Most of all, I'm grateful for the dear friendship of the Lowden family: Master George, Flo, David Ausdahl and Bryony, Daniel, Aaron, Johnny, Alastair Simpson and every other person and craftsperson who makes up this incredible company.  

The reason is obviously nothing to do with the wonderful guitars. I've been given the chance elsewhere to help design a guitar for modern fingerstyle from scratch, and I couldn't resist such an exciting challenge. 

Thanks for all the birthday messages this weekend. I can really feel that passage of time this year. For me, this is the end of a huge part of my life.  

jg x