Guitar Making
- Prix: See details
- Accessible to all after individual interview
- Durée: Between 30 and 60 days to complete the instrument
Prerequisites
No technical prerequisites are required to access the training, but since crafting an instrument is a long-term endeavor, especially in the early stages, one must be capable of committing the necessary time and motivation throughout the project duration.
The initial classes allow individuals to assess their interest and ability to perform meticulous work requiring precision and concentration before investing in expensive tools or precious woods. They serve as a trial period (see below).
Objectives
The main objective of the training is to enable the learner to acquire all the skills and knowledge necessary to create a professional instrument, built to the highest quality standards using traditional craftsmanship methods. This notably excludes excessive use of electrified machinery, emphasizing instead the learning of proper techniques, posture, and the mindset required for executing precise tasks while seeking an intimate connection with the materials being handled.
Methodology
"Practice and Knowledge are One" (知行合一), according to the old dojo proverb.
The plane and chisels are the primary tools of the luthier. Instruments are constructed with a focus on respecting the materials and maintaining a calm workshop environment.
The choice of instrument to build is free but should allow for a gradual learning curve in the discipline. Intricate designs and complex inlays should be reserved for subsequent instruments. A construction timeline will be provided to each learner so they can track the progress of their project.
Throughout the learning process, emphasis will be placed on:
- Enjoyment in work.
- Quality of results over speed of execution, which can only be achieved through practice and experience.
- Relevance of choices made in relation to the acoustic, technical, and aesthetic desires of the project.
The use of local and environmentally friendly raw materials, such as woods sourced from European forests, or organic adhesives and biodegradable varnishes, is preferred at all times.
Practical Information
Classes are conducted in groups of two or three, typically at a pace of one day per week or every two weeks. A more intensive or occasional schedule can be discussed. Students are responsible for organizing themselves and coordinating with the instructor to find their work partner. Unless otherwise arranged, classes are not held on weekends. The workday begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m., including a lunch break and 30 minutes for final workshop cleanup, totaling 6.5 hours of effective work.
The learning path is divided into two stages:
- Preparatory sessions (minimum of 3): involving project definition, plan study, material sourcing including potential supplier visits, sharpening, and initial planing techniques on the future neck. All necessary tools are provided during this initial phase.
- Learning phase, which continues until the project's completion. At this point, the learner should have acquired their first personal tools, at minimum, including high-quality chisels, a No. 5 plane, and a palm plane, as well as a 0.8mm scraper.
Pricing (2022-2023)
Preparatory courses: €160/day ⋅ Learning phase: €120/day. Social rate: €100/day.
We strive to keep our prices as democratic as possible while ensuring fair compensation for the instructor and providing a fully equipped workshop for quality learning. However, if economic circumstances are the sole obstacle to participating in our courses, please do not hesitate to discuss it with us. A social rate (€100/day) is available upon request for participants such as students or those with incomes below the poverty threshold of €1,085, subject to economic feasibility.
Additionally, participants should budget approximately €300-500 for raw materials, which will be purchased throughout the learning process (wood, hardware, etc.).
Once completed, the instrument belongs fully to the participant and will be co-signed with their name and the workshop label. Instruments produced during the training should be considered as learning tools and are not intended for sale.
Space is limited, and admission is based on an individual interview.
