Ch-ch-ch-changes ... 

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forwards in whatever way they like.” 

Lao Tzu 

As is evident as we look around us, life changes. So too is Rick Hayes Instruments changing and evolving. Although Rick has always had his hands into building electric guitars, we have recently made the decision to shift much of our luthiery focus in that direction. There are a multitude of reasons behind the decision, ultimately it is one that we feel is right for us at this time. 

We thank all of our wonderful acoustic guitar and mandolin clients that have purchased from us in the past, and apologize to those left on the waiting list that we did not get to. Rick will continue to do some “slow builds” on mandolins and acoustic guitars, so you never know what might show up. (We do have a wait list for mandolins and acoustic guitars. if you would like to be on it, just contact us. There is no deposit needed and no obligation to purchase when your name comes up.) 

Going forward most of Rick’s time in the workshop will be devoted to creating custom electric guitars, and maybe even electric mandolins! He will continue to bring his attention to detail and exhaustive search for just the right parts and materials for each build. Instruments will primarily be made-to-order customs, as well as Rick’s own configurations. Do you have an idea for a guitar you’ve always wanted? A sound that you are searching for? A certain look? Let us know! 

In the months to come, our website and social media will begin to reflect these changes. We realize a lot of our current followers are steeped in acoustic — particularly bluegrass — music, and we thank you so much for all of the support you’ve given us over the past years. We hope you’ll stick around to see what’s ahead! :) 

Take care, 

Lyn & Rick 

P.S. For all of you musicians out there, particularly those in the general region of Cincinnati, be sure to visit Rick’s recording studio website (www.HayesProductions.com) to see what he’s doing in there. Rick specializes in helping singer/songwriter’s realize their auditory vision for their songs. He works primarily in the Americana, Blues, Rock, Metal, and Bluegrass genres, but is open to most styles.

Tim Shelton Interviews Rick for his Podcast Series 

Tim Shelton, formerly of NewFound Road and now of The Surly Gentlemen, does a very interesting (and free!) podcast series where he interviews lots of folks, many of them involved in bluegrass and acoustic music -- and talks about different subjects. We were lucky enough to be asked to join the party! Below is the link to his podcast page. Just click "View in iTunes" for Episode #81 (Feb. 15, 2017) and it will open it open in itunes. Hover over the number to the left of the podcast, it turns into an arrow, click it and listen in!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/timsheltonshows-podcast/id1081701991

One of a Kind -- #001 

We recently completed our first concert size guitar and are thrilled to say it sounds just as big as the dreadnoughts! At this time, we aren't putting them into regular production, although they will be available through special order. Click here to view additional photos. 

This particular guitar has most all of the same specs as our dreadnoughts, only with the smaller body and a very special 5-piece neck made of wenge and mahogany. Although we haven't yet decided on a price for a custom-ordered concert size, this one is available for $6,300.

Edit:  SOLD!

Mandolin #23 Now Available 


Here's a new beauty just finished recently! You can visit our Available Mandolins page to view photos of this F-5, and read up on the specs on the Mandolins page. If you would like additional information, please Contact Us
 

BTW, hate sounding "salesy" at all, but just wanted to let anyone interested in our mandolins know that it might be one of the last nitro-finished ones we do for a bit (there is a sister to it coming out soon). We are switching to hand-rubbed varnish and the price will increase when we do that. Just wanted to put the info out there. :)

New Video by Randy Kohrs 

Grammy-award-winning Randy Kohrs, owner and engineer at Slack Key Studio in Nashville, has had his Hayes guitar for almost four years now. We recently had an opportunity to film an impromptu testimonial from Randy -- in his very cool studio -- as to why he loves his Hayes. Needless to say, we were overwhelmed by his glowing review. Thanks so much Randy!! :)