The skilled crafting of Olympus Guitars has taken the country by storm since setting up camp in Sydney a handful of years ago.
Creating instruments for icons of music, there are strong signs to suggest this is just the beginning.
Olympus Guitars has come a long way in its short lifespan with the business garnering a solid reputation for its craftmaking, highlighted perfectly through their work in making guitars for rock legend Alice Cooper and famed Greek Australian guitarist Orianthi.
Olympus Guitars’ journey goes back to 2018 when Johnny Prapas and his family decided to migrate from Leptokarya to Sydney.
“It was an opportunity to bring the craftsmanship and heritage of Olympus Guitars to a new community,” Prapas told Neos Kosmos.
“The transition was not easy, but the vibrant music scene and welcoming culture of Australia inspired me to continue my journey.”
The owner explained that his passion for guitars began in the foothills of Mount Olympus, where he was surrounded by the beauty of nature and a family tradition of craftsmanship.
“Growing up in a family of woodcutters, I learned to distinguish woods and appreciate their potential from a young age,” he said.
“It was during my apprenticeship under John Harrison from 1993-1995 that I honed my skills in creating fine acoustic and electric guitars. The theories and techniques I learned there laid the foundation for what would become Olympus Guitars.”
The challenges were many, not least of which was acclimatising to a new country.
“Australia was a world away from Greece, both culturally and geographically. The challenge of adjusting to a new language and environment was significant, but it was the people who made the biggest difference,” Prapas said.
“Friends like Darrell Wheeler and Hugh Coffey welcomed me into their world, their humour and support helped me navigate this transition. The beauty of Australia’s diversity complemented the traditions I brought from Greece, creating a blend that shaped my vision.”
The guitar maker credited Wheeler and Coffey for helping foster important relationships and spread Olympus Guitars to a whole new audience.
“Their encouragement gave me the strength to persevere and adapt,” he said.
Prapas explained that the process of guitar making involves working closely with musicians to understand their vision before using high-quality materials like Greek olive wood to craft the final product.
“Each guitar is hand-crafted, following standards refined over 26 years of experience. From design to construction, it is a meticulous process that brings the musician’s dream to life,” he said.
“Once finished, the guitars are carefully packaged and shipped to their new homes, where their journey continues.”
The guitar marker stated that the pandemic stood out as a landmark moment for the company as their business continued to thrive despite the terrible circumstances.
“While many industries were facing uncertainty, the trust and loyalty of our customers shone through as orders continued to come in every week. It confirmed the power of art and music to bring comfort, even in the most difficult times.”
Among the many highlights for Prapas has been collaborating with artists like Alice Cooper and Orianthi.
“Working with legendary musicians like Alice Cooper and Orianthi was surreal,” he said.
The business’ success inspired Prapas to donate a handmade guitar signed by Orianthi in support of Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers.
“The guitar we built for Alice Cooper felt like a dream come true, and the signed guitar from Orianthi donated to his charity was deeply satisfying.”
In addition to them, Olympic Guitars has also collaborated with artists like Eric Gales, Austin Hanks and Billy F. Gibbons, Arlen Roth, Victor Wooten, Miguel Montalban, Doug Seven, Lisa Perry and Howard Glazer.
Prapas shared his delight with the progress they have made in a short period of time.
“What started as a hobby after a small family business in Greece has now become an internationally recognised name in guitar,” he said.
“The pride I feel is not just for the growth of Olympus Guitars but for the relationships we have built with artists and collaborators around the world.”
While it is a bright start, Prapas stressed they are looking to go bigger and better.
“My goal is to continue pushing boundaries, expanding our range of instruments, and inspiring the next generation through workshops and mentorship,” he said.
“Above all, I hope to keep blending cultures and connecting hearts through the power of music.”
