News Summary
William Hughes, a skilled luthier in East Texas, is transforming the region’s music landscape by repairing string instruments, particularly violins. His collaboration with Kilgore Mercantile and Music provides local musicians with access to quality luthier services, bridging a gap in professional repairs. With extensive experience and a passion for craftsmanship, Hughes is committed to inspiring young musicians through the upcoming opening of Hughes Violins in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Kilgore, Texas – William Hughes, a dedicated luthier, has significantly impacted the music scene in East Texas through his expertise in repairing stringed instruments, particularly violins. Working across Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas, Hughes has established himself as a go-to resource for musicians seeking high-quality instrument repairs. His collaboration with Kilgore Mercantile and Music ensures that local musicians can easily access reliable luthier services, thereby enhancing the musical landscape of the region.
Hughes specializes in the intricate art of luthiery, where the techniques employed have remained largely unchanged over millennia. While his focus is primarily on violins, he also adeptly works on larger string instruments like basses and cellos. His extensive training under various seasoned luthiers throughout the country has equipped him with the skills necessary to handle a diversity of repairs which, over the last six or seven years, has included approximately 6,000 instruments, with a predominant number being violins.
Hughes’ background is rooted in music, having initially played drums in a band where he became known for his ability to fix instruments. However, it was not until he underwent formal training in luthiery that he fully grasped the complexities of this craft. Hughes claims a broad network in the luthier community, stating that he knows most skilled luthiers across America. His approach to luthiery is meticulous, reflecting a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
For the past decade, Hughes has been working closely with Fred and Vivian Gebhardt, the co-owners of Kilgore Mercantile and Music. This fifties-themed establishment not only sells ice cream and gifts but also offers musical instruments and lessons. Hughes’ presence in the store has proven beneficial, especially as prior to his involvement, the Gebhardts had to travel to Austin to access skilled luthier services. This situation underscores the scarcity of proficient luthiers in the area, a fact that has become increasingly evident to local musicians.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hughes took a hiatus from luthiery and shifted to the insurance sector. His return to string instrument repair was largely inspired by encouragement from Fred Gebhardt, who recognized the pressing need for trustworthy luthier services within the community. The trust built over years of collaboration has allowed Hughes to handle not only the instruments of local musicians but also the personal instruments of the Gebhardt family.
Fred Gebhardt has noted the critical shortage of skilled labor in the luthiery field, highlighting the importance of Hughes’ role in the community. Musicians have expressed appreciation for Hughes’ work, which has become essential in maintaining the performance quality of their instruments. This reliability has fostered a loyal customer base that continues to support Hughes’ endeavors.
Looking ahead, Hughes is set to expand his business with the opening of Hughes Violins in Shreveport, Louisiana. This new storefront will further his mission of making quality musical instruments accessible to young aspiring musicians. Hughes underscores the significance of providing children with proper instruments, as he believes that quality begins to shape their experiences and appreciation for music right from the start.
In conclusion, William Hughes stands out as a key figure in the East Texas music community, reviving string instruments and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Through his expertise and unwavering commitment to quality, he plays an integral role in nurturing the local musical heritage and ensuring that the art of luthiery remains alive and well.
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Additional Resources
- KLTV: Kilgore business works with traveling luthier to repair stringed instruments
- Wikipedia: Luthiery
- KLTV: Web Extra – Luthier & Music Store Owners Share Insights
- Google Search: Luthiers
- News Journal: Kilgore Musician Ally Venable Continues to Garner Accolades
- Google Scholar: Luthiery
- KLTV: Award-Winning Luthier Opens Shop in Kilgore
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Luthier
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
