For enthusiasts following guitar news, understanding the craft behind these instruments is essential. Beyond the headlines of new releases and artist collaborations, there’s a dedicated world of guitar building and repair. This article delves into a specialized program that’s shaping the future of guitar craftsmanship.
Aaron Paul sanding a guitar neck
Student Spotlights: Crafting the Future of Guitars
Aaron Paul, a 30-year-old with a passion for guitars who journeyed all the way from Austin, Texas, is honing his skills in a guitar repair and building program. Despite Austin’s vibrant music scene, Paul sought out specialized training to master the art of guitar making. He’s currently focused on perfecting the sanding of a guitar, a crucial step in the instrument’s creation. Already, Paul has built four instruments, showcasing his diverse skills with projects ranging from a traditional mandolin to a uniquely designed steampunk electric guitar. The program encourages creative exploration, particularly in the second year, allowing students to blend technical expertise with artistic vision.
Paul’s dedication is already paying off; he has secured a position at Warmoth Custom Guitar and Bass Parts in Washington state. His role will involve the critical work of finishing guitar necks – final sanding, shaping, and installing components like frets. “As a guitar player,” Paul explains, “I’ll be ensuring that the necks not only look perfect but also feel just right for musicians.” His ambition extends beyond his job; Paul intends to build his own guitar business on weekends, crafting instruments to his specifications and selling them. He’s already seen success, having sold one of his guitars to a neighbor and planning to keep others as personal milestones in his burgeoning career. Paul observes a shift in the guitar industry, noting the decline of traditional apprenticeships in guitar shops. “The apprenticeship route is fading rapidly,” he states, “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find those opportunities now.”
John Anderson working on a vintage guitar
Jon Anderson, 24, from St. Paul, shares similar aspirations. A jazz and folk guitarist, Anderson is immersed in restoring a Selmer 807 guitar. This model, known for its association with “Gypsy jazz and swing” music, was originally crafted in France between the 1930s and 1950s. Anderson has invested nearly 300 hours in its restoration, with approximately 10 more hours of meticulous work remaining. Looking ahead, Anderson is targeting guitar shops in Stillwater and Des Moines as potential launchpads for his career. “This is what I’ve always been passionate about,” Anderson shares, highlighting his long-held dream of working with guitars.
Instructor Insights and Industry Outlook
Instructor Steve Rossow offers valuable insights into the program’s outcomes and the guitar industry’s job market. While specific job placement statistics aren’t tracked, Rossow is optimistic about career prospects for graduates: “There’s opportunity out there for everyone.” He estimates that around 10% of graduates might find roles with major manufacturers, while others will contribute to smaller workshops or specialize in repair services. Entry-level positions in smaller operations could offer starting salaries around $25,000, with potential growth to $30,000 to $40,000 at larger companies.
A steampunk-themed electric guitar
Rossow emphasizes the niche nature of the guitar making and repair business but underscores its stability. “It’s a niche business, but it’s pretty stable. The popularity of guitars and stringed instruments isn’t going away,” he affirms. This stability is good news for those considering a career in this specialized field, offering a blend of craftsmanship and enduring demand.
To witness the students’ skills firsthand, the Southeast Technical Guitar Show is an excellent opportunity. This event showcases a wide array of newly constructed guitars, allowing attendees to appreciate the craftsmanship and even experience performances featuring these instruments.
Inside a guitar workshop
In conclusion, for those tracking news in the guitar world, the story extends beyond artists and products. It includes the skilled individuals learning to build and maintain these instruments, ensuring the future of guitar music through expert craftsmanship and dedication. The guitar repair and building program highlights a vibrant and stable niche within the music industry, offering promising career paths for passionate individuals.
