Born in Medford, Oregon, Bill grew up in Weed, California at the base of Mt. Shasta where he developed his lifelong passion for the mountains and learned to play several musical instruments. At the College (now University) of the Pacific and the University of California Berkeley, he studied both music and electrical engineering.

He later combined his musical and technical talents, designing and building with composer Lou Harrison the first complete American Gamelan. Over the years, Colvig and Harrison built many other instruments based on models from around the world.

In addition to being musical collaborators, since 1967 Bill and Lou were life partners. At a time when gay couples were still largely invisible to the straight world, they openly and tenderly showed their profound love for one another. Their thirty-three years of shared life and devotion is a model and an inspiration for all couples.

Over the years, as their flowing beards and hair turned white, Lou and Bill grew to resemble one another more and more. Along with Lou, Bill always warmly welcomed younger composers and musicians into the beautiful home they shared overlooking the Pacific.

Bill Colvig was one of a kind - a true original's original. His impish grin and mischievous laugh, his irrepressible enthusiasm and unbridled joy in living will remain always in the hearts of everyone who knew him. The beautiful instruments and the rich life he created with Lou Harrison will be his enduring musical legacy to the world.

William Colvig died in Capitola California, at the age of 82. When Bill's spirit left his body, Lou was at his side, holding his hand. "It was a peaceful death", says his soul-mate. "He was so beautiful. Like a beautiful animal returning to Nature."