Every summer, some of the most passionate voices in the acoustic guitar world gather for a unique event: the Fretboard Summit. Hosted by Fretboard Journal in Chicago, the Summit is part festival, part workshop, part guitar show, and part family reunion. It’s where players, builders, songwriters, and enthusiasts come together to celebrate the instrument we all love.
From intimate performances to in-depth workshops, the Summit offers something for everyone. Attendees can watch world-class musicians perform, hear from independent luthiers about their craft, and explore the latest innovations in guitar design and tone. The atmosphere is equal parts educational and inspirational—a rare chance to connect directly with the people shaping the acoustic guitar community.
This year, Breedlove’s new owners Pete Mroz and Shannon Pollard joined the celebration, going behind the scenes to meet with artists, connect with builders, and soak up the creative energy that fills every corner of the event. For Pete and Shannon, the Summit wasn’t just about guitars—it was about community. It was about listening, learning, and being inspired by the stories and people who keep acoustic music alive and thriving.
“We’ve always believed Breedlove’s strength lies in community and connection,” Pete shared. “Being at the Fretboard Summit really reinforced that. It’s not just about instruments—it’s about the people who play them, build them, and live with them.”
For Breedlove, attending the Fretboard Summit is also a way of honoring tradition while looking ahead. By learning from other builders and hearing from passionate players, Pete and Shannon are bringing fresh inspiration back to Bend, Oregon, where the next generation of Breedlove guitars is already taking shape.
As Breedlove enters this exciting new chapter, the Fretboard Summit was a reminder of why we do what we do: to craft guitars that inspire connection, spark creativity, and tell stories that last a lifetime.
