All classes are taught through Marc Adams School of Woodworking.
For more information or registration, please visit the MASW website.
Click on a class title to go to the MASW class webpage.
MAKE A MOUNTAIN DULCIMER
April 22-23, 2023
Have you ever wanted to learn to build a stringed instrument, but didn’t know where to start? A mountain dulcimer is a great first instrument. This unique stringed instrument combines as a moderately challenging project. Students will be guided through all the critical elements of building the dulcimer and be provided with dimensions and plans that will assist you in continuing to build in the future. Materials will be traditional cherry or walnut with a spruce top. John will also discuss the background and history of the dulcimer. By the end of the workshop there will be a group lesson on playing the instrument. WARNING: Building stringed instruments is addictive! Be prepared to leave with a smile on your face!
MAKE A UKULELE
April 24-28, 2023
Aloha! No, we aren’t having a class in Hawaii; however, we will bring a little bit of Hawaii to Indiana as students build a popular Hawaiian instrument, the ukulele. By the end of the week students will have their own tenor ukulele to play and sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow!” John will provide the highest-grade materials, including figured Tasmanian Blackwood and Macassar ebony. The instrument will be built from scratch, including neck carving. The ukulele will be ready for finish at the end of the week. Whether you are new to building stringed instruments, or are an experienced builder, this class will teach new skills and methods such as soundboard bracing, joining necks to the body and much more. Mahalo!
MAKE AN ACOUSTIC GUITAR
October 14-20, 2023
Building your own guitar can be one of the most rewarding crafts. It consists of precise joinery, creativity and music all in one package! Students will be guided through all the critical elements of making an acoustic, steel-string guitar. Materials will be high-grade quality, solid woods only. Because of the obvious time limitations, prefabrication of parts will be necessary, and John will supply these. Students will learn the start to finish process of the craft and art of musical instrument construction. By the end of the week, everyone will have completed their own hand-crafted, acoustic guitar that is strung and fully playable. The application of a protective finish will be discussed in depth so students can complete the project after the class ends. Participants should have some experience correctly using hand tools, such as chisels and planes. If you ever wanted to make a guitar, this class will be the chance of a lifetime. The hours are long, and the challenge is great, but the satisfaction will be tremendous and will create “sound” memories that will last a lifetime.