Musical instrument making – traditional stringed and keyboard instruments with Geoff Bowers and Andy Butterworth
Ref: SMI37701
About this course
Musical instrument making:
You will work in small groups (SMI37701–SMI37704 ) , with an experienced maker as your tutor, selecting an instrument from the range offered , according to your interests and experience in fine woodworking. Instrument options include some which are suitable for complete beginners. Instruction is given in the principles of making, assembling and finishing the instrument, allowing you to start a new project or complete one already in progress. The tutor will contact you to discuss your choice and the materials required. Most instruments take more than one nine-day course to complete. This depends on the complexity of your instrument, your skill level in fine woodworking and your ability to continue at home beween courses.
You will work in small groups (SMI37701–SMI37704 ) , with an experienced maker as your tutor, selecting an instrument from the range offered , according to your interests and experience in fine woodworking. Instrument options include some which are suitable for complete beginners. Instruction is given in the principles of making, assembling and finishing the instrument, allowing you to start a new project or complete one already in progress. The tutor will contact you to discuss your choice and the materials required. Most instruments take more than one nine-day course to complete. This depends on the complexity of your instrument, your skill level in fine woodworking and your ability to continue at home beween courses.
Timetable
Arrival day
Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential to arrive by 6.45pm
6.45pm Welcome followed by dinner (included)
8.00-9.00pm First teaching session, attendance is essential
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15-5pm Classes (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am-12.30pm (lunch included)
Workshops must be cleared by 3.30pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am
General Information
Tutors
Andy Butterworth
Andy has been attending the West Dean Musical Instrument Making Course for over 35 years, firstly as a student and then as a tutor. His work as a restorer and maker in the horological and musical genres gives particular insight into technical aspects, especially for keyboard instruments and hurdy-gurdies, which have some "engineering" content.
Accommodation
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
