The Violin Making and Repair course at Newark has a reputation established over 50 years.
While musical instruments can be mass produced and are widely available, there is a continued demand from professional musicians for bespoke instruments or highly specialised, intricate restoration on valuable performance instruments.
Globally there are few craftspeople equipped with the skills to provide this service.
This course aims to develop classical, traditional skills, knowledge and craftsmanship in this very specialist field through practical time focused around the workbench.
Newark College has a strong international reputation and extensive connections with the trade. It offers a unique qualification and an opportunity for learners to develop their own network of contacts. Regular links with professional practitioners, suppliers and players (national and international) enable learners to develop a close understanding of marketing trends, customer needs and professional practice.
Completion of this one-year programme will equip learners for further study in the field.
Typical Topics
Basic Techniques - learners will be introduced to a range of practical traditional techniques, tools and materials associated with their craft
Historical and Contextual Studies - learners will examine key figures involved in the development of traditional instruments, exploring how advancements in technology and shifts in social and political perspectives have influenced the evolution of the craft
Making Specialist Tools - learners will be introduced learners to the processes of making specialist tools used for tasks in their specialist pathway. It develops control of manual techniques and the use of machine operations to manufacture bespoke hand tools
The Anatomy and Design of Musical Instruments - provides underpinning knowledge of the design and anatomical construction of violins.
Workshop Practice - aims to foster professional behaviours in the organisation and use of specialist equipment, tools, materials, techniques and technologies in a practical workshop setting. Learners will be aware of how to control risks and work safely.
Applicants must be assessed via an interview that includes a practical skills test to ensure sufficient competency within the relevant fields of craftsmanship.
This diagnostic assessment is part of the admissions process and aims to identify attributes or skills in the learner that suggest appropriate pathways of study, or to identify learning difficulties that require support and resolution.
This form of assessment is carried out at the initial interview stage when applicants’ portfolios are examined to assess the appropriate skills and basic understanding required for their choice of programme.
Each learner will have two and a half days of contact time with specialist tutors during one academic year starting in September.
There are no formal examinations for this course. Assessment is continuous and based on practical skills in making and repair, evaluated through tutor observation. In addition, a summative assessment will be completed through a portfolio of tasks completed throughout the academic year.
This is a full cost course, £4,000.
Details will be given at interview.
Attend one of our Open Days to find out more about our courses. To register please click here.
Our tutors bring considerable skills and experience as well as their understanding of current business practice and techniques, making our courses highly valued to students.