Learn to build your own archtop on a 3-week-vacation course at my workshop in Finland...
For pictures of the first course held in August/September 2003, click here...
The next course is scheduled for August/September 2004 and two participants is all that is needed for the course to take place. Participants will need to register and pay their deposits (=costs for materials & accommondation) a minimum of 3 months prior to the course, whereas and the actual course fee is due couple weeks prior the course.
Here is some basic information concerning the course:
(costs are in EURO / person / 1 Euro is approx. U$1,15)
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 2 per workshop
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: You don't need previous experience of instrument building, but if you have no woodworking experience at all you won't get much out of the course - or it may just be extra-difficult. If you're unsure whether you have enough woodworking experience, feel free to get in touch and discuss it.
I should also mention that some of the procedures are physically quite demanding - you can expect some blisters and sore fingers & wrists after you've carved the back!
COURSE FEE: EUR 850
All tools needed, machinery, sanding papers, glues etc. provided by me - though if you have (quality/luthiery) tools of your own and that you're used to, feel free to bring them along with you.
COSTS FOR MATERIALS: EUR 790
Including non- or slightly flamed maple back, sides & neck - top of 1st class eurospruce - fingerboard and fittings of ebony.
Additional costs:
- Pickup (optional/price depending on pickup)
- Case by Calton +350,- (recommended; custom made & the best there is)
ACCOMMODATION: EUR 500
Fully equipped summerhouse with two 2 separate bedrooms, kitchen/living room, sauna, shower-room & WC. Approx. 15-20 minutes from the workshop by walk. The price also includes daily breakfast, lunch and supper as well as coffee & tea whenever there's time for breaks... ;^)
LENGTH OF COURSE: 3 weeks - yet additional days are also possible! More information upon request!
So, the total cost of a course would be EUR 2.490 per person (incl. the case mentioned above), plus travel costs, of course. And if you're interested in participating, or have any questions or comments, drop me a line - see the contact page.
For general information on travelling to this part of Finland, here are some links: Finnish Tourist Board North Karelia Nurmes (our nearest town, 20 km from the workshop)
