Dunedin man Don Milne is a noted old-school craftsman and engineer. He's also a banjo player of some repute and has played with the best. Recently, he has begun to make his own Tui- branded banjos.
Why do you do what you do?
I have always worked with my hands. I grew up in my father's workshop; he was a very clever man. As a teenager I first heard a folk banjo, played by the Kingston Trio. I thought, 'I like that'. It was a bright, cheerful sound.
I then got a banjo that needed to be repaired. I went to a local man who made them, Rawe Hawkins, in Wellington. He showed me how he made them. But it is only recently that I've made them myself.
In the intervening years, working with wood and in engineering, I gained the skills to have a proper go at it. I've made 10 Tui banjos, all based on the same ideas. I use some of the best ideas that have come out of research work done 100 years ago. They're light in weight and I've got a feel for what works. I like building them; it's a synthesis of work and art. And it's brilliant to make something other people take pleasure in.
What is your earliest playing memory?
At the Monde Marie. A wonderful venue in the 1960s. It was a folk club coffee bar in Wellington. I heard banjos being played and, eventually and nervously, joined in. It was an amazing gathering place of local and visiting musicians.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I always wanted to work with my hands. I went to engineering school but didn't fit into academic life. I was too busy keeping Model As and motorbikes going. I went off and learned to do proper practical things on Great Barrier Island; crayfishing, sailing, boat building, house building, marine engineering.
Property aside, what's the most extravaga
nt thing you've bought?
My yacht, Selkie. It gives me a lot of pleasure. I was going to leave Great Barrier so bought Selkie to keep that connection with the water. I enjoy sailing and have had it for 21 years. I race on the harbour and cruise occasionally.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Guilt-free pinot noir. Guilt spoils the flavour.
What would be your dream job?
I've got my dream job. I've been self-employed since 1972, apart from some momentary lapses. I enjoy working on old buildings and old engineering projects. It's very satisfying, as is making banjos.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Abagael Washburn and Bela Fleck, both superb banjo players and wonderful people.
What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
I'm pretty happy with what I have. I have brilliant friends and playing music is a universal bond. I'm looking forward to doing more of it, as well as watching my family grow.
What keeps you awake at night?
A good book.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
I do love old Appalachian mountain hymns, like Been a Long Time Travelling Here Below, or The Lone Pilgrim.
Is it true there are more banjo players per square kilometre in Northeast Valley than anywhere else in New Zealand?
Well, there are four of us. Some refer to the valley as the Banjo District of Dunedin.
