wildwoodbanjos - Posted - 06/06/2018:  16:29:09

Over 45 years ago I had no idea that the consequences of taking a road less traveled would put me on a path that would lead to a long career of building a small banjo company. Wildwood Banjo Co. has been the dominant force in my life for all these years and now, as I am about to turn 70, it's time to end one chapter and start another. It's time to end the long and sometimes endless hours that growing a business demands, and venture out more in this diverse world enjoying people, places, and activities that have been "put aside for later". Later is now, retirement calls, and it's time to move on from this part of my life.
Though I look forward to retirement, I surely will miss the daily routines of working in the shop and the satisfaction of creating banjos that bring pride and joy to myself and others.
Wildwood Banjos began in the summer of 1973 in Arcata, CA as a personal experiment. Through the years it developed a following of music store dealers and players appreciating the efforts of a small banjo company building quality instruments with a distinctive flare for figured woods, tasteful inlays, unique design, and above all, a true concern for authentic sound and play-ability.
There are well over 6000 Wildwood Banjos in the world doing their part for the rich history of old-time and bluegrass music. I'm proud to think that I have made a contribution to the effort.
There were many talented craftsmen whose collaborative input helped shape the very nature of Wildwood Banjos--I will always be appreciative of their efforts. To the many music stores who represented Wildwood through the years....a sincere thank you to you all. And to the many banjo players who supported us by buying and playing a Wildwood Banjo, I am humbled by your enthusiasm and trust. It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of the "banjo family" for these past 45 years. Thank you all for the opportunity to follow that dream.
Sincerely,
Mark Platin/Wildwood Banjos

banjo bill-e - Posted - 06/06/2018:  16:35:10

Congrats, Mark, and enjoy your retirement. You left the world a bunch of nice banjos.

Brian Murphy - Posted - 06/06/2018:  16:49:48

Well done, Sir. Few people can look back and know they left such a mark during their careers. Think about all the good times and incredible music made on instruments that came from your hands.

RBuddy - Posted - 06/06/2018:  16:53:52

It was a friends playing, and his WIldwood banjo that really sparked my interest in building banjos on a small scale. Thanks for your great banjos and your contributions to the craft of luthiery.

banjonz - Posted - 06/06/2018:  16:58:19

I know of one "troubadour" here in my city in New Zealand.

Grizzly Adams - Posted - 06/06/2018:  17:05:32

My Wildwood Balladeer is easily the finest banjo I have ever played. Thanks for your contribution to banjo history. Enjoy your retirement!

thisoldman - Posted - 06/06/2018:  17:41:35

Yes, enjoy your retirement. I have a rosewood Paragon, an outstanding banjo. It certainly lives up to the definition of paragon "a.... thing viewed as a model of excellence."  I watch "Craftsman's Legacy on IPTV- you certainly have left a legacy in your banjos.  Best wishes.

Helix - Posted - 06/06/2018:  18:24:58

What a contribution, thank you.

desert rose - Posted - 06/06/2018:  22:01:12

Enjoy your next chapter Mark, you have left a mark in the music world to be proud of

Scott

mike gregory - Posted - 06/07/2018:  03:32:36

Most people in the USA couldn't tell you the names of the Supreme Court justices from FIVE years ago; but a HUNDRED years from now, people will still be playing those beautiful WILDWOOD banjos.

You have made items of lasting beauty.

Ken LeVan - Posted - 06/07/2018:  05:39:09

It's always a sad thing to see a real craftsman hang up their tools for good.  I wish you well and hope you enjoy your retirement!

Paul R - Posted - 06/07/2018:  07:26:35

So sorry, yet happy for you, to see you retire. You have left an indelible legacy - and people such as Jason Romero who carry on the craft and tradition they have learned from you. Well done.

Possum Fat - Posted - 06/07/2018:  07:40:24

Ditto to all above Mark. Still enjoying my 'Vine' I got from you so many years ago. I believe it was the last 'hand' inlayed vine you made. You will love retirement I'm sure.

James bernet
Clancy, MT

gottasmilealot - Posted - 06/07/2018:  14:45:42

I'm happy to say I own one. What a fine instrument.  Enjoy your retirement, you certainly earned it.

wildwoodbanjos - Posted - 06/07/2018:  14:52:01

WILDWOOD BANJOS RETIREMENT SALE:

I will be selling off all remaining banjos, parts, work in progress, etc. all things related to Wildwood Banjos. Keep watching for a listing of what is left and available. There are a few finished instruments that will go at very reduced pricing. I will get pics up soon with prices.

Mark/Wildwood Banjos

banjobart - Posted - 06/07/2018:  17:22:37

Thanks for helping me get started building banjos.

frisco slim - Posted - 06/07/2018:  18:45:28

The world is a more beautiful place for your having been here, that's something to be proud of.

mikehalloran - Posted - 06/07/2018:  20:08:40

I’ve always admired your work. Happy Trails!

ThomasW - Posted - 06/08/2018:  05:51:57

I bought my Wildwood Minstrel at Elderly Instruments in 2012 and I have been very satisfied. Extremely good value for the money and top-notch workmanship. Thanks, Mark!

Lew H - Posted - 06/08/2018:  10:18:30

Bittersweet news! I was in Arcata a decade or so ago, but didn't know that was your location then. I've always admired your banjos and craved one of the tubaphone models.

Wrags - Posted - 06/08/2018:  21:36:49

Congrats on your retirement Mark! Sorry to see Wildwood Banjos go, but I am glad you are going to take the opportunity to enjoy other pursuits. Hope you have many great adventures! My wife and I have 3 Wildwood banjos between us and enjoy them all. The custom Heirloom Exotic you made for me is still my favorite banjo! Thanks so much for making such wonderful banjos!

Helix - Posted - 06/09/2018:  22:14:55

I was going to say, Bart. I looked at everybody 10 years ago. I"m 72, I'm the punk.

I'm going to humbly ask that you, Mark, of the Platin people consider doing live seminars, video is cold.

Lawrence Juber of McCartney's Wings once asked us at a seminar for DADGAD if there were any pros in the room? It got quiet, dude, we're all pros." What a laugh we had.

I have coffee on my tailgate in the shade for you cats.

If you don't, Mark, young people will follow you around like Forest Gump. We owe you free passage. Enjoy yourself. I learned.

This music kills Death ITself.

ceemonster - Posted - 06/10/2018:  19:02:28

To my dismay, the last two all-walnut Troubadors to post at Elderly spent about five minutes in stock before disappearing . . . including one very recently.

jimifive - Posted - 06/10/2018:  21:10:42

Mark - Thanks for going the xtra mile with my Whyte Laydy...first time I played it in public I heard someone say “ Is that some kind of special banjo.” I love my Tubaphone just as much. You’re a banjo champion!

wildwoodbanjos - Posted - 06/11/2018:  12:53:39

quote:

---

Originally posted by ceemonster

To my dismay, the last two all-walnut Troubadors to post at Elderly spent about five minutes in stock before disappearing . . . including one very recently.

---

I am going to be selling off all remaining banjos at reduced pricing.  I have 1 Troubador in Black Walnut!  if you are interested send me an email and I will give you a confidential quote.

Mark/Wildwood Banjos

wildwoodbanjos - Posted - 06/11/2018:  12:56:57

quote:

---

Originally posted by banjobart

Thanks for helping me get started building banjos.

---

Bart:

    I had no idea that I had anything to do with you starting to build banjos.!?!  It certainly seems like it all worked out well for you.

Mark/Wildwood Banjos

Disco Kid - Posted - 06/12/2018:  08:56:10

Mark, congratulations on your retirement! Is there any relation between Wildwood banjos and Wildwood Music in Arcata? My daughter lives in Blue Lake and I visit that store every time I go there. In fact I have their sticker on my banjo case.

banjobart - Posted - 06/13/2018:  09:30:11

Mark, 30-35 years ago I would call you and pick your brain. I recall that you told me how to make a fixture to drill bracket shoe holes in the rims. You were patient and friendly.

kwl - Posted - 06/13/2018:  17:39:27

Mark, enjoy your retirement. I can honestly say that it is the best job I've ever had. It gave me the time to enjoy a Wildwood Troubador I purchased shortly after retiring. You can rest assured that it has given me many hours of pleasure and will continue to do so. Whatever you choose to do with your time in retirement, I wish you all the best.

scramblefingers - Posted - 06/14/2018:  02:56:54

You have no doubt sprinkled gold dust over many banjo playing fingers and enriched the lives of the banjo community. Your lasting legacy will be testament to your dedication and passion.
Enjoy your retirement.

Ira Gitlin - Posted - 06/14/2018:  07:05:54

Thanks for the contributions to our banjo community!

EricFlatpick - Posted - 06/14/2018:  09:42:14

Thank you very much, Mark Platin, for inspiring so many luthiers and players, and for your generosity in replying personally and affably to all comers. 10+ years ago, when I read that John Burke and Art Rosenbaum bought Wildwoods on the spot after playing them, I had to find one and try it out. It took a long day trip to do so, but it wasn't long after that I was playing an Heirloom, one of the finest looking and nicest sounding banjos ever built.

Maybe you'll have more time to play now. Best wishes for the next chapters in your life!

frailin - Posted - 06/14/2018:  15:26:02

You're leaving big, empty shoes to fill, friend. The good news is, your work will live on, bringing joy for maybe another century or two. Now that's a legacy!

Thanks for your artistry, Mark.

Tony Buffa - Posted - 06/14/2018:  17:40:27

I walked into your shop in ‘03 just to check it out and went home with a beautiful open back Troubadour with bracket band. I pick it every morning while having my coffee. I just love that sound. Thank you Mark for making my life better and for filling my home with the wonderful sound of your handiwork. Hope you have a long and happy retirement.

lanemb - Posted - 06/14/2018:  18:22:42

I am happy for you mark and sad for us. I just recently discovered your banjos and was super impressed with your work and choice of woods. Enjoy life while you can!

giweb - Posted - 06/15/2018:  08:12:30

Mark,
Thank you for your contribution to quality banjo creation. Enjoy your retirement and know you will be remembered. I worry about the aging of banjo building greats.
giweb

jlsorbit - Posted - 06/15/2018:  10:05:57

Thank you Mr. Platin. Enjoy your retirement!

flatline - Posted - 06/15/2018:  15:22:14

(at least) one Wildwood lives in Belgium, not far from here...
and it doesn't need much words to describe the outstanding difference ....
enjoy your retirement ! !!!
F.

mike gregory - Posted - 06/29/2018:  12:40:59

Your only regret should be that, by retiring, you have moved me ONE NOTCH CLOSER to being considered one of  the FINEST banjo makers on Earth!   

Gepetto makes a Squared Eel

 

cpk - Posted - 06/29/2018:  17:03:23

Congratulations on your retirement and a wonderful career. You make fine instruments that are loved and sought after.



In Spanish, the word for retirement is "jubilación." A jubilant time! Enjoy it as much as the world appreciates and enjoys your work. Thank you for decades of devotion to craft and fine workmanship.



Chris

Edited by - cpk on 06/29/2018 17:03:42

tucsonsean - Posted - 07/01/2018:  12:05:59

My first good banjo was a Minstrel I bought from Elderly. My working banjo for years was an early Arcata model (well before your models had names, as you kindly took the time to inform me). Great banjos that will be around long after either of us. Enjoy your well-earned retirement. Wildwood's demise is a loss to the entire banjo community.