At Hoffman Music in Spokane, a well-known truth in the guitar department is that the right guitar finds you. For Rob Ruggiano, this journey has been a lifelong search, oscillating between Los Angeles and Spokane.
“I experimented with everything that didn’t involve needles,” Ruggiano shared. “Art and guitars brought me back.”
Inspired by a bet from a friend, Ruggiano embarked on an ambitious project to construct a guitar entirely from sugar cubes. What began as a whimsical idea evolved into a heartfelt endeavor, with each sugar cube triggering cherished memories.
Ruggiano was recently reminded of his old friend Jon Linley, who passed away about a year ago. The two had been roommates and collaborators for decades. In honor of Linley, Ruggiano decided to name the guitar after him.
“I gave him the nickname Schmindelhoffer about 25-30 years ago. I have no idea where it came from, but it felt right to name the guitar after him,” Ruggiano explained. “Something just told me this guitar was meant for him.”
Reflecting on their friendship, Ruggiano remarked, “I feel Jon. I absolutely feel him.”
Currently, Ruggiano is working on a new neck for the guitar, which will also be crafted from sugar cubes.
