I went over there today to drop off my instruments, and he was exactly what I was looking for. He looked over the instruments and was spot on with his diagnosis and remedies for the problems. He also was very good at investigating what MY desires are for the instrument, and watched how I play to better know how to set the instruments up for my playing style. THAT is what a Luthier should do when you bring them an instrument to work on.

I can wholeheartedly recommend Nowell Siegel at Living Tree Music for the job; he has repaired binding and glued cracked braces for me. He is a highly skilled and meticulous craftsman, and is very familiar with old Gibson mandolins.

If anyone in the Los Angeles area is looking for a great luthier for repairs, get in touch with Annette and Nowell at Living Tree Music . I had an unnerving issue with my KM 1050 and brought it to Nowell after finding them in the cafe. The end result was quick, attentive, completely reasonably priced work and very kind folks. I'm having some improvements done to my '71 Martin D-18 and will continue to bring my instruments to Nowell as needed.

• Customer Service, Thoroughness, Quality “Enjoyed the time you spent helping me and sharing your expertise.”