Vermont Instruments School of Lutherie
Vermont Instruments is a teaching lutherie begun by myself, George Morris, in 1982. As a luthier I design and make acoustic guitars and other instruments for sale, and as a teacher I introduce the craft in two-week, one-on-one workshops. Anyone who wants to build a guitar for him or herself, or to train for a professional career in the craft is welcome to enrole.
Two-week Introductory Guitar Building Course
As an introduction to the craft I offer a two-week course of study for one person at a time. During the course the student and I build a beautiful, high-quality guitar together, by hand, from scratch, with special attention paid to the most important aspects of the instrument: craftsmanship, tonal quality, playability, and strong design. Building choices include classical and steel-string models, as well as a choice of materials. Course tuition is $4,000 and includes instruction, materials and housing, and a comprehensive, illustrated shop manual, a useful resource for future work. I am also available for help in the future, via phone, email, Facetime, etc.
The methods used are straight forward and hands-on. They rely on common hand and small-scale power-tools, and a few simple jigs… following the hand-building tradition, not the factory model. My interest is in advancing the craft by blending useful and labor-saving modern technologies with traditional wisdom and technique. I prepare students to begin working in their own shops as quickly and efficiently as possible, with minimal investment in tools and equipment.
Students learn the rudiments of the craft: the care and use of tools (especially chisels, planes, knives and scrapers), the nature of wood as a working medium, practical acoustic theory, finishing, and repair and jig-making strategies. No woodworking experience is required, but facility with one’s hands is always helpful.
A private apartment with Wifi, kitchen, bedding and laundry is included.
2025 Dates: !OUR LAST YEAR!
Jan 5 - 18 April 13 - 26 filled June 1 - 14 July 20 - Aug 2 Sept 14 - 27 Nov 2 - 15
Thanks for visiting! George Morris
“The time that I spent under the mentorship of George was honestly a life changing experience. I have recommended this course to many. Whether you just want to get away from the every day stress of life, or you are serious about becoming a luthier, I can’t think of a better place to escape to. The instruction, care, environment, camaraderie, and sincere passion that is part of Vermont Instruments, is unbelievable. Every guitar that came out of our group was a superb prize! Highly recommended!”