Guitar Repair | June 5th 2012 - June 26th 2012

Guitar & Bass Setup and Maintenance Course

This course will explain the fundamental mechanical operation of the guitar and all other stringed instruments. This includes all types of guitars (acoustic and electric) and bass guitars. From here the student will gain the knowledge and techniques necessary to put any stringed instrument into balance for optimal playability and tonality.

Course Description

Each class is divided into part lecture, part demonstration, and part hands-on workshop. Acoustic and electric instruments will be provided so students can experiment with adjustments and nut and saddle fabrication. While not necessary, students are encouraged to bring their own instruments to class for use during demonstrations and hands-on work. Useful handout materials will also be provided.

In this course, we will address different instruments, playing styles, and the pros and cons of various products and hardware. Other topics include:

  • string height
  • intonation/saddle compensation
  • neck relief
  • neck pitch
  • truss rod adjustment
  • string break angles
  • selecting string gauges and types
  • height of strings at nut
  • nut and saddle making
  • fret wire
  • tuning systems
  • various tremolo systems
  • bridges
  • finish care
  • tooling

A wealth of information will be covered in this course. Armed with this information, you will be prepared to handle many unpredictable circumstances that for most musicians would be show-stoppers. Learning the elusive craft of setting up a stringed instrument for optimal playability and tonality will reward every musician with a greater understanding and appreciation of their instrument. Whether or not you decide to perform your own maintenance in the future, taking this course will enable you to deal confidently with the local luthier and to have the best interests of your instrument in mind.

Workshop Materials and Supplies

The school provides each student with their own individual workstation and all necessary tools. The school also provides instruments to any student who does not wish to travel with their own.

WORKSHOP FEE

$220

DATE

Jun 5, 2012 - Jun 26, 2012

TIME

Tuesdays
7:00pm - 9:30pm

DURATION

4 weeks

SPACES FILLED

4 / 9

INSTRUCTOR

The course instructor is Ian Schneller, owner/luthier of Specimen Guitar Shop.

LOCATION

All classes are held at Specimen located at 1240 N. Homan Ave. in Chicago, Illinois. Click here for a map.

Student Feedback

Click here to read student feedback about our school.

Mail In Registration

Please download this form if you want to register for a class by mail.