Brian Calhoun and Randall Ray formed Rockbridge Guitars in 2002. Randall, an avid guitarist, started building and repairing guitars in the 1980’s. As a guitar historian, Randall was able to combine his favorite characteristics of vintage Martins and Gibsons to build his early guitars. At that time, Brian was building mandolins, violins, and doing the custom inlay work for Stelling Banjo Co. In 2000, Brian and Randall collaborated on their first guitar and set out to develop a unique instrument. They wanted a well-balanced instrument that had power and clarity on every note. Most important, they intended to build an instrument that was their own, not a copy of a vintage guitar, but a guitar with a unique voice throughout all the different models. In 2002, the first Rockbridge guitar was built, and Brian and Randall both dedicated their full time and attention to the new business. Adam McNeil, Brian’s childhood friend, joined Rockbridge Guitars in 2007. He came with a solid background in woodworking and fine craftsmanship. Adam has been integral to the production and philosophy of Rockbridge since joining the team.
Jake Hopping started building with Rockbridge in 2013. Jake and Brian became friends while attending Berklee College of Music in the late 90’s. Jake had been a professional bassist and touring musician for 12 years before signing on full-time with Rockbridge.
Rockbridge Guitars takes its name from Rockbridge County, Virginia, as homage to the homeland of the luthiers. The workshop and home base is in historic downtown Charlottesville, Virginia.
