About
This class is a continuation of the class that began in January.
Craft your own steel-string guitar under the guidance of a master luthier. In this nine-week class, you will go through all the steps, from shaping to assembling to finishing.
The class, which inaugurates what we hope will be a robust series of luthier programs at BARN, is open to beginners. But if you have little or no hand tool experience, please also sign up for our two-night Hand Tool Basics class, scheduled in the week before the guitar class.
Materials cost: So that you can build your guitar from the wood you want, students in this class will be responsible for purchasing their own materials in advance of the first session. This cost is in addition to the class fee.
The easiest way to order materials is to buy through a “one stop shop” luthiers' supply site, such as Allied Lutherie (alliedlutherie.com) or Luthiers Mercantile (www.lmii.com). The latter provides a guitar kit “wizard" that lists what you need and prompts you for various material options. You are also welcome to shop at other retailers.
- As a guide to what you might need to spend: The total cost came to $366 when the Luthiers Mercantile kit wizard was used to order everything needed to build a guitar with a sitka spruce top, mahogany sides and back, and Gotoh open gear tuners. If you opt for more exotic woods, the price would be higher.
- Download a complete list of materials at this link. You will also receive the list in an email after you register.
- If you have questions about wood species, dimensions or other details, feel free to e-mail the instructor at alan.villagemusic@gmail.com.
- Shared tools and jigs will be provided, although if you have your own hand tools, you are welcome to use them. You will be able to store your parts and project at BARN during the duration of the course.
This is an 18-session course. The posted schedule includes one extra session so the class can decide whether to meet on Presidents' Day, Feb. 19. Note that two sessions start at 6 pm, rather than 5:30 pm, to accommodate other activities in the woodshop.
Instructor: Alan Simcoe is a maker of guitars, ukuleles and other stringed instruments. He and his wife, Debby, own Village Music in Lynwood Center. Besides showcasing his custom instruments, the shop offers music lessons and instrument repairs. Simcoe also performs with his Latin jazz band, The Cuban Heels. He was named an Island Treasure in 2009.
