While musical instruments can be mass produced and are widely available, there is a continued demand from professional musicians for them to be maintain and repaired, 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.
Typical Topics
Viola Making Techniques understanding the challenges coming with the design and making of the viola
Basic repairs Techniques: Learners will get taught how to assess an instrument, and clean it. How to approach a restoration starting with crack repairs, part cast, solid bushing, removal of part, retouching, all repairs that are common and part of the maintenance of a violin in a workshop.
Advanced restoration Techniques: Making a full cast, spiral bushing, arching correction, bespoke patches, advanced retouching techniques, neck graft or other extensive restorations depending on what the instrument needs.
Finishing Techniques Varnishing of two violins, one with spirit varnish and one with oil varnish as well as all the ebony and set up work needed! (top nut, saddle, fingerboard, pegs bridge, soundpost, etc…)
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
Applicants must be assessed via an interview that might include a practical test to the tutor discretion
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.
Please note, the Advanced courses are for adults 18+.
Formative assessment in 1-to-1 session at the bench.
Students will encourage to produce a portfolio to help them keep track of their progress and of the techniques taught, so that they can repeat them in their own time.
Completion of this one-year programme will equip learners for further study in the field.
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.
