Have you ever contemplated taking up the guitar? Or are you are already accomplished in the art of strumming? Either way, you’ll probably know the ‘May’ family name. As in Maton Guitars. Internationally renowned. Sought after and played by the very best in the business. A Melbourne business just around the corner in Box Hill South.
On the 30th March, 2020, Vera May sadly passed away at the age of 102 years. (see picture taken in 2017). The passing of Vera May has reminded long-serving Club members of the contribution both Bill and Vera made to the Rotary Club of Camberwell. Bill was inducted into our Club in May, 1965, nine years after the Charter of our Club. Both Bill and Vera became an integral part of the Club’s formative years- especially in establishing the Club’s new Art Show.
Bill was inducted as President 1978-79 and in that year inducted Richard Gray into the Club. In recognition of his impressive service record, Bill was presented with a Paul Harris Award.
Looking back on Bill’s business career – he was a top musician. In fact, in the 1950’s and 1960’s he was a ‘Slack’ Guitarist in the well-known Graeme Bell Dixieland Band. Bill May (1915-1993), luthier, completed an apprenticeship in cabinetmaking and taught woodwork before founding Mayton Stringed Instruments and Repairs in the early 1940s. His brother Reg soon joined him as a full time guitar maker and the pair established the Maton Musical Instruments Company in 1946… in his garage! ,
Vera May was the matriarch of the Maton business and was a constant influence from 1954 until her retirement in 1987. She organised the administrative and financial aspects, while Bill built the guitars.
The husband and wife team were an inspiration to many in the music industry due to their passion for the business, great customer service, and for creating a family feeling amongst their employees.
Maton Guitars moved from Bill’s home to a factory in Canterbury Road, Canterbury, a short distance from the Canterbury Centre. Over time, the successful business continued to expand. It moved to larger premises in Box Hill South, opposite Bunnings. A couple of years ago some of our Club members visited the premises. The Company is run by Bill’s daughter Linda and son-law, Neville Kitchen. Unfortunately, Bill passed away in 1993.
Looking back on Vera’s life, she was a great asset to her husband Bill, her family, to the Maton Guitar business and to our Rotary Club.
Richard Gray. Acknowledgement: Frank Leigh.