Since 1968

Budd Greenman's lifelong journey with music began at the age of eight with the violin—an instrument that would shape both his artistic voice and professional path. As a young musician, he performed for several years with the Ferris State Chamber Orchestra, developing a strong foundation in classical music and ensemble performance.

His passion for traditional music led to a leadership role as Junior Director of the Original Michigan Fiddlers Association. There, he immersed himself in the rich heritage of Michigan fiddle music, learning directly from seasoned performers and helping preserve the region’s musical traditions. 

At 15 Budd started his first job working at Quinns Music for Mark Conley, doing instrument setups and basic repairs. Through that job experience he developed a passion for working on instruments. He worked for Mark about 3 years, and really got a passion and a feel for the history of the music store. 

At sixteen, while working for Quinns Music. Budd became the youngest student ever admitted to the Galloup Guitar School’s master apprenticeship program, one of the premier institutions for guitar building and repair in the country. There, he formally began his study of lutherie—merging a love for fine instruments with a drive to understand how they are built and maintained.

Following his training at Galloup, Budd worked for McPherson Guitars in their finish and setup department, gaining valuable hands-on experience with high-end instruments and deepening his expertise in precision work and tonal optimization.

He later continued his development under the mentorship of violin builder Elon Howe, where he refined his skills in traditional violin-making and restoration techniques. This apprenticeship further focused his craft on the art of caring for and creating fine stringed instruments.

Alongside his lutherie work, Budd has spent over 30 years as a professional musician, performing in bands that span genres from traditional fiddle music to rock and roll. These bands include Freshwater, who were featured as an up and coming band by the White Pines music label, which was started in the music department at CMU. One of his bands, 7 Mile Strings, was featured on Blue Lake Public Radio. Another of his projects, The Johns, a band that has been around for more than 10 years, released a series of music videos that has led to the band being hired for the White Water Whirl dance weekend in West Virginia. In the past they have played at festivals such as the Wheatland Music Festival, a famous festival for traditional music. Separate from traditional music, Budd has also explored rock and roll. Working currently in a band called the Hand of Giants, set to release their latest album in July of this year.

 Budd has also shared his knowledge and love for music as an instructor at the renowned Ear Full of Fiddle and Dance Camp, where he helped nurture the next generation of traditional musicians. He has also brought his lutherie expertise to the Great Lakes Music Camp, providing repair services and instrument care to students and faculty alike. His dual role as a performer and builder gives him a unique ability to connect with musicians and understand their needs—both on stage and at the workbench.