The interplay between music and instruments goes beyond the flow of notes; it lies in the meticulous design and craftsmanship behind each instrument. Chinese guitar designer Tongyang Li has his own distinctive insights in the field of instrument design and craftsmanship. How has he infused his profound musical background and design experience into guitar design? Moreover, how has he broken traditional boundaries and propelled innovations in guitar craftsmanship through a series of collaborations? Today, we are thrilled to meet with the renowned guitar designer Ocean (TungYangLi) to explore his unique creative philosophy. Before we dive into the Q&A session, could you please greet our curious readers and introduce yourself? Ocean(TungYangLi): Hello everyone, I’m TungYangLi: Hey, thank you for having me! Q: How did your experience majoring in bass at the Musicians Institute shape your approach to guitar design and production? A: My experience majoring in bass at the Musicians Institute allowed me to deeply understand both the sound and playing experience of instruments. This had a significant impact on every detail of my guitar designs. I not only focus on the tonal qualities of the instrument but also consider its comfort and playability. The training I received at the music college sharpened my sensitivity to tonal nuances and helped me strike a balance between artistry and functionality in my designs. Q: How has your stage experience enriched your craftsmanship and design philosophy at Shabat Guitar? A: Years of performing on stage have given me a deeper understanding of what musicians need from their instruments during live performances. I understand the need for lighter, more durable instruments that still maintain tonal stability. This has led me to focus not only on the aesthetic beauty and high-end craftsmanship of my guitar designs but also on practicality, ensuring that every guitar can deliver optimal performance in live settings. Q: Your work has helped uphold Shabat Guitar’s reputation for quality. What principles do you adhere to when designing each instrument to ensure they reflect the brand’s high standards? A: I always adhere to several core principles: precision in detail, exceptional craftsmanship, and an unwavering pursuit of tone and playing experience. In designing each instrument, I ensure that the selection of materials and the execution of craftsmanship meet the highest standards. Additionally, I maintain close communication with clients to ensure that each guitar reflects their individual needs and playing styles, which is key to Shabat Guitar’s reputation for top-tier quality. Q: Can you describe the process and challenges of designing a custom guitar for Tim Pierce that met his exacting tonal and playability requirements? How did this project enhance your reputation as a luthier? A: The greatest challenge in designing a guitar for Tim Pierce was finding the perfect balance between exceptional tonal performance and flawless playability. Tim had very strict requirements for every detail, from the curve of the neck to the flexibility of the tone. Through repeated communication and adjustments, me and our team ultimately created a custom guitar that suited his playing habits while delivering a consistent tone in both live performances and recordings. This collaboration brought me more attention in the industry and demonstrated my ability to meet the demanding requirements of top musicians. Q: Reflecting on your collaboration with Hiro Miura, how have these joint efforts pushed the boundaries of traditional guitar and bass design? A: My collaboration with Hiro Miura has constantly pushed us to challenge traditional guitar design concepts. We experimented with incorporating modern production techniques while preserving the essence of craftsmanship. We explored how to enhance the playability and versatility of the instrument while maintaining its classic tonal qualities. This collaboration not only expanded our personal design horizons but also breathed new life into traditional instruments, making them more suitable for the needs of modern musicians. The post Breaking Tradition: Interview with Guitar Designer Ocean (TungYangLi) on His Innovative Process   appeared first on LA Weekly.