Jason Simpson

My name is Jason Simpson and I would like to welcome you to Simpson Guitars.  Allow me to share a short biography so that you can better understand the heart and history behind my instruments.  My interest in guitars began as a young boy listening to my father play Chet Atkins songs on his Gretch “Country Gentleman”.  He taught me early on how to play the basic chords and that soon developed into a love for playing and guitars in general.  Over the years, the love has grown and found its ultimate fulfillment and creative expression in the art of Lutherie.  It was at the age of 20 when a magazine article crossed my path and forever changed my course.  I had always been a dreamer of sorts with a creative mind and a longing to do something unique.  That day, I discovered the realm of custom acoustic guitars and a dream was born.  The dream is now a reality and I consider myself blessed to derive my livelihood from it and to be part of such a great community of artisans.  Lutherie is the ideal art form for me because a guitar stimulates so many senses.  It’s not merely something to be seen but also felt, heard and even smelled.  It’s a work of art that has the power to inspire the heart, mind, body and soul.

I’m primarily self- taught in the trade gleaning much of my knowledge through studying the works of Ervin Somogyi and William Cumpiano.  In addition, years of experience and help from other great builders like Kevin Ryan have shaped me into the builder that I am today.  From my very first build in 1996 to this day, my goal has always been to make the best guitar that I can, setting my standards on nothing less than that of the world’s greatest builders.  I am a perfectionist at heart and avidly pursue high performance in sound, craftsmanship, ergonomics and visual appeal.   I produce about 12-14 guitars per year which enables me to keep my focus on the customer’s needs and to give the necessary attention to each piece of wood in order to bring out its maximum potential.    While I respect tradition, I’m not a purist.  I’m committed to tradition only when it proves un-improvable.   This is evident in the sleek modern lines and progressive design elements found in my guitars.

As for inspiration and motivation, I find it from many sources but I would like to acknowledge here that the primary source is Jesus Christ.  He is the chief architect and artisan.  In His creation, I see the most awe inspiring beauty full of design and purpose.  Being part of that creation, He has gifted my hands and mind and so I desire to reflect His Glory in my work and give credit where it is due.