Louis P. Debret
My journey into the world of music began in the fourth grade with the school chorus. Shortly thereafter, I picked up the trumpet and immersed myself in every band, orchestra, and musical event available, continuing this passion until I graduated high school in 1975. While others were jocks or academic achievers, I proudly embraced my identity as a music geek!
After graduation, a transformative whitewater rafting trip on the South Fork American River in the Sierra foothills ignited a new passion. Inspired, I attended a three-week whitewater school in the wilderness of Idaho, a life-changing experience that led me to guide commercial raft trips in California and Idaho. Around the campfires, the guides’ music inspired me to pick up the guitar, and I have been playing, writing songs, and singing ever since—whether solo, in duets, trios, or with various bands, I continue to perform to this day.
My love for working with wood began in junior high shop class and has remained with me ever since. I have operated my own woodworking shop for 40 years, creating cabinets, furniture, and, since 2009, building and repairing guitars. Throughout this period, I also maintained a small residential construction business as my “day job.”
Now retired from the construction business, I am focusing full-time on working with stringed instruments. Building and repairing guitars is my true passion. I particularly cherish working on well-worn or damaged instruments that hold great emotional value, such as "Uncle Bill's old Martin that he played when I was a kid." Reviving these treasured instruments, allowing them to live another life, is a profoundly rewarding experience.
When I'm not in my shop, I enjoy being on the river, mountain biking, kiteboarding, skiing, and of course, playing music.
Testimonials
I've played a lot of guitars over the years, but my LPD dreadnought is in a class of its own. The responsiveness is unlike anything I've experienced — it sings across the full tonal spectrum, from rich, deep lows to crisp, articulate highs. Every time I play it for someone new, the reaction is the same: pure disbelief at how incredible it sounds. The playability is absolutely perfect — effortless and inspiring every time I pick it up. But what truly sets it apart is the craftsmanship. This guitar isn't just an instrument; it's a stunning work of art. - Jim Klotz
I bought my Debret “Heron” directly from Louis about 8 months ago. The first time I played it I could not put it down. The wood choices are stunning, masterly crafted, and the tone is so rich and resonant, perfectly suited to my voice. I love the offset sound holes and especially the upper bout sound port. It has definitely become the favorite guitar in my collection. - Bradd Haley
Louis is able to bring the best out of the guitars he touches. As a professional guitar nerd, I couldn't believe it when I played one of his early OM-style guitars (that one was rosewood and old-growth redwood). The craftsmanship was top-tier. OM-size guitars and redwood tops can be really tough to get lots of low-end out of, but there it was: real hearty fundamentals and wonderful extension on top. And each of the subsequent guitars of his that I've played that he built have met that mark. He's been incredibly caring and honest and quick with every project I've had him do (even a neck reset on my beloved 1953 Martin 000-18). Incredibly grateful to have met Louis--music requires people caring about every layer of the process, and Louis' care for the instruments feels like an extension of the love we all share for music.
Scott Elliott Ferreter
Songwriter, Performer, Producer, Coach
I hired Louis to build me a custom guitar per detailed specs provided by me. The guitar was delivered exactly as I had hoped and sounds and plays beautifully. - Sam Love
I have a number of acoustic guitars including Martin, Breedlove, Lowdon, all high end. By far, my favorite is the LDP “Heron” that Luis made for me. The workmanship is second to none, the sound is amazing… exactly what I was looking for…, and the set-up perfect. There is literally nothing that I think could improve this guitar…. Oh yeah, it looks great too.
I had the opportunity to play a number of his guitars, and they are all to-notch (I like mine best… ha). You can’t go wrong picking up an LPD.
However, if you get the chance for a custom build then it is a next-level experience. Working with Louis you’ll have the opportunity to create a personal instrument that is unique to you, sound, fit, appearance, all tailored to your specific preferences. Luis works with you throughout the build to ensure that you are getting exactly what you hoped for, “your” guitar…. and the process is really rewarding. - David Martinez (The Heron)
