Vol.8
MAS HINO
Born in Japan, raised in America.
The identity of a luthier/bass and guitar builder living as a Japan-US hybrid.
HISTORY OF MAS HINO
1975
Age 9
Moved to New York with his family due to his father's work. Entered public elementary school with no knowledge of English. He became interested in the world of music, admiring Edward Van Halen.
1985
Age 19
He was scouted by "Rudy's," a well-established music store on Manhattan's 48th Street Musical Instrument District, and became a direct apprentice of renowned guitar builder John Suhr. He decided to enter the world of musical instruments in earnest.
1993
Age 27
After John Suhr left "Rudy's," he was appointed as the main builder. As head instrument builder until 2000, he built and repaired instruments for many top musicians.
2000
Age 34
Moved to Japan with his wife and worked as a master builder for the domestic manufacturer "Atelier Z". He has built guitars and basses for many famous musicians in Japan and abroad.
2008
Age 42
After returning to New York, he established his own guitar and bass brand "Mas Hino NYC" and started custom order production and repair.
2013
Age 47
Produced basses in collaboration with the historic string brand "La Bella Strings".
2023
Age 57
In order to commit 100% to his brand, MAS HINO NYC, and to pursue a new phase, he resigned as director of Olinto, a collaboration with La Bella Strings, leaving the team.
2024
Age 58
He established the New York Luthiers Lab within the brand. Mas started delivering Guitar/Bass Tech Courses and consulting to pass on many years of expertise at the New York Luthiers Lab.
In order to make guitars and basses more sustainable instruments, he is transferring knowledge and skills to luthiers and players through one of the most sustainable acts: education.
Reference:
"Discovering Our True Calling: Exploring Beyond Japan's Borders"
『日本を飛び出して、世界で見つけた僕らが本当にやりたかったこと』Michinori Mori