Glenn carson
“The Northstar banjo project was a great pleasure for me because it gave me the opportunity to work with both Michelle and Will, each of whose work I have admired for a long time.” Glenn.
Glenn Carson built his first banjo (a fretless) in 1975 based on plans he found in the Foxfire books. He quickly became captivated with all things banjo including old time string band music. Discovering the old classic banjos from the turn of the century was another revelation. Glenn was particularly inspired by the timeless and classic designs of the great Boston banjo companies, such as Fairbanks, Haynes, and Cole. Glenn studied the old instruments and gradually learned to carve and engrave mother of pearl and metal. He was especially inspired by the finest engraver and designer at the Fairbanks company, Icilio Consalvi.
Glenn first read about Michelle Holzapfel in a Fine Woodworking article many years ago, and has admired and appreciated her heel carvings on Will Fielding’s banjos. When Glenn and Will met at a jam several years ago they quickly discovered they had common interests. Both builders are inspired by the great old banjos but also enjoy trying new ideas while striving to achieve the kind of quality found on the old instruments. Both builders also find working in a collaborative effort with other banjo makers very rewarding. Since that meeting, Will and Glenn have greatly enjoyed being able to work on an occasional banjo project together. The Northstar is the first project that all three artists have collaborated on.
Playing music, meeting people and making new friends through his banjo work has always been a rewarding part of Glenn’s life. When Glenn’s son Russ decided to take up the banjo at age 9, it revitalized Glenn’s interest and it became an even more important part of his life.These days he especially enjoys playing music with his son Russ and wife Patty.
Glenn has worked in the environmental field specializing in groundwater cleanup for over 27 years. He continues to work on banjos in his spare time, mostly doing carving and engraving in the evenings while traveling for his day job. When not cleaning up polluted water, playing music or working on banjos, Glenn can be found in the nearest river with a fly rod.