Introduction

This highly specialised practical programme was established in 1984 and is situated at the heart of the college campus. It teaches the craft of making classical and steel stringed. The colleges’ position as the leading classical and acoustic guitar-making centre is recognised throughout Europe and therefore the course attracts many overseas students.

The programme consists of three years and by the end students will have built a minimum of three guitars of contrasting designs. The programme equips students with the knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to be guitar makers in their own right.

The tutors work as experienced professional guitar makers who teach part time and are able to bring their considerable skills and experience as well as their understanding of current business practice and construction techniques to the course.

The School has close links with players and other makers who visit to lead special workshops and discussions, as well as providing students with valuable feedback and comments about their work. Visitors have included the internationally renowned musicians John Williams, John Etheridge, Clive Carroll, Paul Gregory, Steve Hicks, Mark Ashford and Pierre Bensusan. Visiting guitar makers have included Paul Fischer, Gary Southwell, Peter Barton, David Reid, Stephen Sedgewick and N.K. Forster.

Newark has a lively international community of instrument-making students, most of whom are also musicians, which new students find very supportive.

We have strong links with many luthiers across Europe and have collaborated with guitar makers from Finland, Belgium, Italy, Spain and France as part of the Leonardo Guitar Research Project. Although the research into sustainable woods is now complete the connections and approaches continue to influence the way our students make their guitars.

Assessment and Progression

Assessment

The assessment methods typically used throughout the programme include:

Assessment of practical work supported by a portfolio of notes and research.

Progression

Following completion of this programme students may wish to pursue further academic study in Music or seek employment or self employment in the industry. Students will be introduced to these opportunities throughout their undergraduate programme.