About Us
The Companion Custom Banjo Company was established in 2015 in Ann Arbor, MI by Chris and Stephanie Sorenson. A love for bluegrass and hand-crafted instruments became the foundation for a full-fledged banjo workshop. We care deeply about giving our customers a memorable experience through friendly service and exceptional quality.
Chris Sorenson, Co-owner and Chief Luthier
Chris started playing the banjo at 10 and immersed himself in the music of legendary pickers like Earl Scruggs, Ricky Skaggs and Jim Mills. He later began doing his own setup and repairs, and eventually took on small repairs from other players. It wasn't long until Chris was building entire banjos.
Stephanie Sorenson, Co-owner and Inlay Designer
Stephanie shares a love for bluegrass and is a multi-instrumentalist and singer. She is the resident computer wiz handling the design of custom inlays and mock-ups for customers.
Dotty Sorenson, Color Expert and Detailer
After retiring from a career in electron-microscopy, Dotty joined the crew. She is a gifted artist in many mediums and lends her keen eye to creating masterful color arrangements with utmost attention to detail.
Anthony DePollo, Apprentice Luthier
Anthony is a talented picker and banjo enthusiast. When he's not mastering the banjo building trade, he's busy teaching lessons to area pickers and managing a local music store.