Simon's approach to instrument making is based on a few simple concepts. The instrument must have an alluring, and captivating sound that is inspiring to the player. The player must be able to access a wide range of colors and effects with ease and be given the opportunity to express them self freely with an instrument that has power, direction and presence.
Simon owes much of his earliest work to the help and support of Australian Luthier Richard Howell. Simon put himself through what he calls an apprenticeship, by building guitars based on traditional instruments, and occasionally calling Richard for advice. Today Simon's instruments are constructed with his original design principles formulated over many years and he considers them truly modern guitars.
Some of Simon's strongest influences include the making approach of Daniel Freiderich, Ignacio Fleta, Jeffery Elliot and Richard Howell. The guitars of Robert Bouchet have also been inspiring. It has helped that Simon has met and spent time with three of the above mentioned luthiers. The essence of there craft has given Simon much food for thought and inspiration to try different techniques and ideas. For the most part however it is the players that have the final word. The support and insight from some of the top performers in the world have helped shape the quality of Simon's instruments.
Rovis-Hermann guitars are steadily gaining popularity among top players the latest of which is the Czech guitarist Pavel Stiedl and Matthew Marshall of New Zealand.
