Frank Ford 1944-2023

Gryphon Co-Founder

Frank Ford was one of Gryphon’s Founding Flounders and for decades he was the head of our repair department. Sadly, he passed away in late 2023. Frank had over fifty years of years experience repairing and restoring guitars, mandolins, banjos and ukuleles. He was an encyclopedia of musical instrument knowledge, from how they’re made, and how they break to how to make them whole and functional again.

Although Frank is no longer with us, we live with his legacy in a very real way. He was an excellent mentor and every day we use the repair techniques he pioneered, often using the very tools he created to do those jobs. He had a singular sense of humor and we still repeat his jokes and running gags.

He was a joy to work with and he loved talking about every aspect of fretted instruments, from their history and maintenance to the music played on them. When first-time visitors to Gryphon asked if he was Frank, his cheeky reply was, “I try to be.” As we move into a future without him, we will try to keep this spirit alive and will try to be a bit Frank, as well.

We are pleased to announce the launch of the FRANK FORD SCHOLARSHIP FUND. A collaboration with Joy Imai, Richard Johnston, Gryphon Stringed Instruments and the Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery to honor the legacy of Frank Ford. Donations to this fund will allow learning experiences for aspiring luthiers for years to come.
Click HERE to donate.