From Fields to Fretboards
Nestled on the eastern coast of the Chinese mainland, Changle was once known for rice paddies and quiet villages. In the early 1990s, local visionaries saw an opportunity: electric guitars. With no background in luthiery, these farmers turned their hands to woodworking and metalwork, studying import catalogs and secondhand instruments.
Building a Global Sound
Trial and error became the workshop mantra. “We started by disassembling guitars to learn their secrets,” recalls Li Jian, one of Changle’s first builders. Today, Changle churns out one-third of the world’s electric guitars, shipping instruments to rock stages and home studios across continents.
The Next Chord: Innovation and Impact
Behind the numbers lies a story of resilience and skill. Emerging workshops now integrate CNC machining with handcraft traditions, producing models for indie startups and major brands alike. As global music trends evolve, Changle’s artisans are already tuning the next generation of sound. For young entrepreneurs and makers, Changle proves that bold pivots and hands-on learning can reshape global industries one string at a time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
