personality. It was always an adventure to talk with him...Bill led the way forward for so many builders. The sky over the guitar world is a little darker today, and it's hard to imagine it being as bright again without Bill."

Jazz guitar virtuouso Julian Lage voiced a similar opinion of the master: "Bill was magical. One of the most inspiring human beings in every way. His passion and dedication to the evolution of guitars and mandolins was infectious and powerful. His presence lifted everyone to their highest level, and I feel so lucky to have been his friend. Bill was the embodiment of presence and passion, and he was a true leader."

Collings MF, F-Style Mandolin

Collings guitars can be found in the hands of a massive range of professionalof the American guitar legacy.

Collings instruments are frequently touted as among the finest in the world, and this reputation has led to steady growth and expansion for the firm over the years.

In 2005, Collings expanded to a new production facility where a team of around 50 people built and distributed guitars, ukuleles, and highly coveted mandolins.

In 2006, the firm branched into electrics, with models like the 360 and I–35 earning wide acclaim in the guitar community. More recently, Collings launched their Waterloo brand, which honors the style of lower–end Depression–era guitars, like Gibson's Kalamazoo brand.

Video with Bill released in 2015.

Through it all, Bill Collings and the company he built have maintained a clean reputation for the extreme detail and integrity of its guitars.

In an era where the number