The Maker
Caleb Byerly is a master instrument maker, designer, and cultural craftsman whose work bridges heritage, faith, and fine artistry.
Raised in High Point, North Carolina—known as the furniture capital of the world—Caleb grew up in a family of furniture makers. From an early age he was immersed in woodworking, upholstery, and design, developing a deep understanding of materials, craftsmanship, and form. Music was also central to his upbringing, and he played multiple instruments throughout his childhood.
At twenty-one, Caleb moved to Israel to apprentice under bronze sculptor Rick Wienecke, where he studied traditional bronze casting, wax methodologies, and fine art techniques. This season not only refined his craftsmanship but also broadened his perspective through exposure to diverse cultures and artistic traditions from around the world.
Caleb’s journey into instrument making began while ministering in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. There he encountered a common misunderstanding: many believed that following Jesus required abandoning their cultural identity. Yet the gospel transforms hearts, not cultures. This revelation now shapes his work—crafting instruments that honor cultural heritage and lift its voice in worship.
Since 2009, Caleb has built high-quality, museum-grade instruments for musicians, collectors, filmmakers, and cultural institutions worldwide. His work includes crafting a traditional Salimbaa for a museum in the Philippines, creating David’s harp featured in The Chosen (Season 5, Episode 3), and inventing the “Whistle Harp,” inspired by The Wingfeather Saga, transforming a fictional instrument into a playable reality.
Today, Caleb operates his workshop in Moravian Falls, North Carolina, where he designs and builds custom stringed, percussive, and wind instruments using premium materials and time-honored techniques. Through Evergreen Instruments and Evergreen Missions, he continues to partner with indigenous communities around the world—helping restore cultural expressions of worship while training others in the art of instrument making.
Each instrument he builds is more than an object—it is a restoration of sound, story, and sacred craftsmanship.
Here are a couple of albums I have recorded with some of these instruments that are available to purchase.
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