Description

How does a small, specialized manufacturer not just survive, but thrive, in a market shaped by big-box retailers, online marketplaces, and mass-produced gear? Join us for a conversation with Peter Henriksen, who has spent nearly two decades answering that question firsthand. Henriksen Amplifiers began with a problem. Founder Bud Henriksen, an entrepreneur who launched Henriksen Data Systems, a data equipment manufacturer, in the 1980s, found that existing amplifiers couldn’t capture the jazz guitar’s unique sound while remaining portable. After much experimentation, Bud asked his son Peter to quit his job and join him, and in 2006 the company released its first amplifier, The Jazz Amp. Today the company is based right here in Arvada, and after Bud’s passing, Peter took over operations and broadened the brand’s appeal to acoustic guitarists, archtop players, harmonica players, and other acoustic-electric instrumentalists. Peter’s commitment to the music community extends well beyond the workshop. He is the founder of the Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival, which takes place every September in Arvada, bringing together players, builders, and fans of the archtop guitar and helping put our city on the map for jazz and acoustic music lovers. Peter will share the realities of running a niche, independent manufacturing business today: building a loyal community around a specialized product, competing on quality rather than volume, navigating supply chains and pricing pressure, and reaching customers in an increasingly crowded digital marketplace. Whether you’re a musician, a small business owner, or simply curious about what it takes to build something lasting, you’ll leave with practical insight and plenty of inspiration. Fittingly, we’ll gather at Talnua Distillery, a fellow independent Arvada maker that knows a thing or two about carving out a niche. Founded by Patrick and Meagan Miller, Talnua describes itself as America’s first dedicated American Single Pot Still whiskey distillery, applying Gaelic single pot still tradition to American grain and production, and the American Distilling Institute recently named it 2026 Distillery of the Year. Your ticket includes a drink, so come enjoy a pour from one local craftsman while hearing from another. Location: Talnua Distillery, 5405 W 56th Ave Unit C, Arvada Tickets: $25 for members, $30 for non-members (includes one drink)