David Leiter VM ’26

“I was able to take a left turn and start a brand new career”

David Leiter, age 44 | Tulsa, Oklahoma
Violin Making & Repair ’26

What did you do before coming to NBSS?

I spent my formative years in Oklahoma, Texas, California, and finally in New Hampshire, where I joined the U.S. Army at 17 and a half years old. I was serving active duty during 9/11 in South Korea.

After the service, I worked behind the line in many kitchens for the better part of 15 years. My last culinary job before coming to School offered me a management position, and I had a decision to make. Do you take this role I had been waiting for, or pursue something else?

When/how did you discover for discipline/field?

Woodworking has always been on my radar. My dad, Richard Leiter, has been a woodworker for over 50 years. He started refinishing furniture as a teenager. He has redone the clock faces at Pinkerton Academy in New Hampshire, where I went to high school, and he refurbished the crypt doors at Boston’s Old North Church, where NBSS hosts graduation. He is now at REVIVED Furniture and Home Decor.

I’ve played guitar since I was 15, and my oldest child loves ukulele. I started researching how to make a ukulele, but after about six months, I knew enough to know that I didn’t know enough. I also realized I was tired of working in the culinary industry. I wanted a profession that was going to grow with my talents and abilities.

Why did you choose to invest in training for a new career?

I wanted my career to be something that leaves a positive influence behind, and I love that musical instruments are a way to do that. I started looking into options through my VA benefits, which allowed me to do a vocational rehabilitation program, and discovered the Violin Making & Repair (VM) program at NBSS.

What feels different about NBSS than any other institution is that everybody wants to be here, and it shows in the work of the students and the efforts of the Instructors. Everyone is so hyperfocused on their craft.

During the VM program, I ended up making that ukulele for my kid. It’s constructed of exotic hardwoods and some cypress, and it’s gorgeous.

What are some ways you have felt supported during your time at School?

The School has an absolutely amazing Financial Aid department. The entire administration has been key to my success in this building. Without them doing what they did, I wouldn’t be here right now. 

Instructor Roman Barnas has been incredible and a pivotal knowledge source. His patience was saintlike in class. And Nathan Mohney PT ’22, PA ’23, who is an Academic Administrator, helped me keep perspective on everything.

There’s also not an instructor at NBSS that I don’t know personally. I know them all, and each one of them was so open and accepting … and tolerant of me curiously poking my head into their departments to see what they were doing!

How has your life changed because you chose to go to NBSS?

At 42, I was able to take a left turn and start a brand new career. Now, I’m employable in a field that is resistant to current market changes, as well as able to work independently if I want.

For the first time in my adult life, I have financial independence. Independence doesn’t mean easy, but it means I’m not reliant on anyone else to make a living.

What’s next for you?

I was hired by Tulsa Strings in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I am so excited to hone my craft there.

What’s your favorite thing you’ve made during your time at NBSS?

My favorite violin I made is constructed of birdseye maple on the sides, back, and neck. A close second is the poplar viola that I made.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received while at NBSS?

‘Focus on what you’ve got in front of you on your bench—that’s what you’re here for.’ This advice came from Roman. Things will happen around you, but the only thing that you can look at and deal with and have control over in the moment is what’s in front of you on the bench. Focus there, and the rest will sort itself out.