(If you are searching for Guitars Luthier around you then you probably should head over here )
In short, Luthiers are craftsman who Tunes and Create Guitars (or other string instruments like violin). Its an art and requires a ton of dedication and passion to be one.
The word luthier originally comes from the French word luth meaning lute. So, if you are talking about artisans who make or repair stringed instruments like violins, guitars, cellos, etc- then yes, you are talking about luthiers.
What are the basic skills required for Luthiery ?
Wood-Working :
Meticulous knowledge of instrument design and repair is a must.
If you know what do with your wood (from wood working to wood machining to wood gluing), then you are half way there.
Usually you need specialized Luthiers tools to carry on with most of the work.
And if there’s any part where you get stuck(in woodworking), there’s no reason to back out.
Once the design is ready, all you need to do is spray paint and give a finishing touch.
And ta-da! Half of your job is done. You are now ready to move to the tough part of luthiery.
The Musical Connection :
Now the tough part of being a Luthier come.
Since you are creating the source of music, make sure you don’t forget to be a good listener- to your instruments as well as the interests of your clients.
Music comes from those who know how to listen.
Along with acoustic listening skills, keep in mind that good organizational, administrative and marketing skills are the key to boost your business.
And last but not the least, have patience.
Without patience and problem-solving skills, no luthier’s instrument has ever been built. So have patience. All things are difficult before they become easy.
Here's a short video showing the above process in great detail
Are you befit to be a Luthier?
If you are intuitive, then yes. But if you are not, it doesn’t make you unfit.
You might not be intuitive, but you might be sensitive.
You might think that you are unstructured, but your creativity and innovativeness will make up for it.
The point being, don’t let doubt creep in. If you like to do something, then go for it!
Where does a luthier work ?
There are three possible places:
- Factory
- Repair shop
- Self-Employed Shop
Wherever the luthier wants to work, Factories aid in making more instruments in less time.
And repair shops as the name suggests is, the hub of repairing instruments.
Some people who are really passionate about instruments and music choose self-employment.
It can be a little difficult to make a lot of money, but you never know.
The freedom to choose your own peaceful workplace and give shape to your instruments in your own creative and original ways can most certainly bring you success in the long run.
What should you do to become a successful Guitar Luthier ?
On this date, there is education and training available for every career for this you need to learn and master your skills from Luthier Schools.
But the traditional method of learning through apprenticeships still remains the most effective.
By working as an apprentice, you will not only learn and gain experience, but also make money while doing so.
It will help you to personal get in touch with highly trained luthiers and will also build connections for you in the instrument making industry.
While apprenticeship is the most direct and practical method for learning, college and specialized trade schools can enhance your abilities even more.
You will get an extensive and elaborate education in maintenance, manufacturing and the repair of stringed instruments online too, but it is much of a hands on experience stuff.
There is no single way to learn and acquire skills. If you have patience and love for music, you will find your way and make the best out of it.
What is your area of specialty?
Do you like violins more or violas?
Do you prefer mandolins over guitars or vice versa?
Find your ikigai and focus on what you are best at. Once you know your weak points and strong points, nothing can stop you from becoming best at your craft.
Is it necessary to learn the terms associated with the instrument ?
YES! Very necessary. It might seem like a cumbersome task, but there’s no escaping it.
If you don’t know what part of your instrument is called what, why will anyone want to deal with you instead of somebody who knows his/her instrument?
Is it important to learn about the materials used for the instrument?
Again, YES! The type of material used plays a great role in determining the tone, ambiance and durability of the instrument.
For example, if you don’t use Indian Rosewood or Ebony for the fretboard of your guitar, there is high chance that the frets won’t last long.
It might sometimes be very annoying to organize and keep track of such a vast number of things.
But once the end point is reached, your instrument will be the reason of smile, tears, pride, solace, love, ecstasy and every emotion you can think of.
And that joy you feel and give to the world will be unmatched after all who knows that's it may be your Purpose of Life.
That's it for this little info post,,, Let me know your thoughts on the comments section...
Thanks for sticking by.
