Opus 1024 Kevin Fryer Harpsichord

Chamber Music Amarillo is grateful for the opportunity to own such a stunning string instrument. This is only possible because of an extraordinary anonymous donation. We are grateful to those who bestowed upon us such a gift. Luthier Kevin Fryer – Since 1989 my studio has been located in the Bayview district in San Francisco. It has long been my belief that by sharing information, ideas, and resources we advance our understanding and deepen our appreciation of the field of Early Music. In keeping with this philosophy, I have over the years, enjoyed sharing my studio space with a number of distinguished colleagues. For ten years I had the privilege of working in the same studio with Andrew Lagerquist. Andrew’s wealth of experience has been accumulated over many years and dates back to his early years working with Frank Hubbard. I also have enjoyed the process of teaching. Ron Nakashima studied with me for a period of four years. We began by working on major rebuilding projects, and then Ron designed and built a fine instrument of his own in the Ruckers tradition. Now Ron Nakashima keeps his own studio and is building and repairing instruments a few doors down the hall. I’ve taken on a new apprentice, Steve Renaker, who started working with me in the beginning of 07. He began working on repair projects, and learning the skills required for concert tuning. I first became interested in harpsichords in the late 70s. In 1980, I built my first instrument, a Flemish Single from Zuckermann Harpsichords Inc. I then studied with San Francisco teacher and performer Kathy Roberts Perl, who continues to be my teacher and valued adviser to this day. I went into business in 1984 and shortly thereafter, began a professional relationship with David Way of Zuckerman Harpsichords, becoming his agent for the San Francisco Bay Area. This relationship lasted until 1992 when I left ZHI to pursue my own building from historical designs. I have also been active with several West Coast arts organization. From 1985 to 1995, I worked with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra serving variously as stage manager, harpsichord technician, and tour manager. I also worked with Carmel Bach Festival from 1988 to 1997. And I served on the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Early Music Society including Board President from 1989 to 1992.