Guitar Craft Program
As a final project, you design and build your own instrument, learning through direct experience under the guidance of first-rank professionals how to analyze and solve the problems encountered by working luthiers.
Whether your goal is to work for a guitar manufacturer, design and build your own instruments, or work as a guitar tech, a Guitar Craft education provides the foundation for success.
September 14th, 2024
June 23 - June 27, 2025
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
LEARN FROM EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL LUTHIERS
Guitar Craft instructors bring decades of experience in manufacturing, custom shop operation and instrument repair directly into the classroom.
DESIGN, BUILD, AND PLAY YOUR OWN INSTRUMENT
Design and build your personal guitar or bass from scratch (no prefab bodies or kits) using the same methods and equipment used by custom builders and manufacturers, including hand tools as well as top-of-the-line technology.
ELECTRIC DESIGN
Students learn to build an electric guitar or bass from scratch—including design, fabrication, wiring, electronics, repair and maintenance. This program provides comprehensive preparation for professions in the fields of instrument manufacturing and repair.
ACOUSTIC DESIGN
With the optional 3rd quarter Acoustic Guitar emphasis, learn to design and build virtually any style of acoustic guitar.
DAY AND NIGHT SCHEDULES
Day or evening class schedules, Monday through Friday. Choose the schedule that works best for you.
SMALL CLASS SIZES
Small classes provide plenty of hands-on experience under the close supervision of professional luthiers.
CURRICULUM
CERTIFICATES
The two-quarter/30 credit-unit Certificate program in guitar design, fabrication and maintenance provides comprehensive preparation for the instrument manufacturing and repair professions. Courses are held in a custom-designed facility containing all of the tools, fixtures and accessories required to build high-quality instruments.
During the program, every student designs and builds a custom electric guitar or bass for their personal use. You also receive weekly private instruction in stylistic instrument performance techniques. Completion of all program requirements qualifies the student to earn the Certificate in Guitar Craft.
CERTIFICATE IN GUITAR CRAFT
Provides comprehensive training in the methods and techniques of professional electric guitar/bass design, fabrication and maintenance. 2 quarters, 30 credits (at an optimal course load of 15 units/quarter).
CERTIFICATE IN GUITAR CRAFT – ACOUSTIC GUITAR DESIGN
An additional focus on steel-string acoustic guitar creation. 3 quarters, 45 credits (at an optimal course load of 15 units/quarter).
CAREER OPTIONS
CUSTOM BUILDER
REPAIR TECHNICIAN
GUITAR PAINTER
PICKUP BUILDER
QUALITY CONTROL MANAGER
FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT
FEATURING:
- Fully equipped facilities with industry standard equipment
- Courses are held in a custom-designed facility containing all of the tools, fixtures and accessories required to build high-quality instruments
- GCA regularly offers night classes to accommodate busy schedules
COURSE CATALOG
Program requirements, course information, and GCA details.
QUESTIONS
Admissions department is ready to answer any questions!
READY TO ROCK?
The first step is to complete an Application for Admission.
APPROVAL AND ACCREDITATION
Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.