# Musicians Institute - Nashville > Certificate in Guitar Craft --- ## Pages - [Summer Shot Application](https://nashville.mi.edu/summershot/summershot-application/): SIGN UP FORM - [Safety and Security](https://nashville.mi.edu/safety-and-security/): Guitar Craft Academy is committed to safety and security- read along to learn more about campus safety measures. - [Learn More](https://nashville.mi.edu/learn-more/): Learn more about guitar design & construction through our luthiery program. Acoustic & Electric Guitar. Guitar Lessons. Call Today! - [Guitar Setup and Maintenance Workshop](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-setup-and-maintenance-workshop/): Join us at the MI Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville for an exciting workshop on guitar setup and maintenance. Sign up today! - [Blog](https://nashville.mi.edu/blog/): Looking to get tips and tricks about guitar setup and maintenance? Check out these helpful articles from the pros at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - [International Students](https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/international-students/): As an international student at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, you will receive an excellent education in guitar building, setup, maintenance, and more! - [Scholarships](https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/scholarship/): Musicians Institute offers many different types of scholarships that can help students with the costs of enrollment. Learn more about our scholarships. - [Billing and Payments](https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/billing-and-payments/): Guitar Craft Academy Nashville has partnered with Flywire to streamline the tuition payment process for our students who need to wire funds to the college. - [Tuition and Fees](https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/tuition-and-fees/): Learn about the cost of tuition and fees at MI Nashville and invest in your musical journey. Explore our flexible payment plans and scholarship options. - [Facilities and Equipment](https://nashville.mi.edu/facilities-equipment/): Experience top-quality, hands-on instruction from professionals at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, using state-of-the-art equipment in our modern facility. Enroll now! - [Faculty](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty/): Get to know the amazing faculty and staff at Musicians Institute's Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. Contact us to learn more and get started. - [Student Consumer Disclosure](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-consumer-disclosure/): Guitar Craft Academy is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. - [Home](https://nashville.mi.edu/): Comprehensive training for guitar luthiers, covering design, construction & maintenance offered by Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - [REQUEST INFO](https://nashville.mi.edu/request-info/): Guitar Craft Academy offers classes and resources for prospective guitar luthiers- this page will get you connected to gather more info. - [GRADUATION RATE](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduation-rate/): Musicians Institute is committed to providing prospective students with all the information they need to make informed decisions about their education. - [Copyright Infringement Policy](https://nashville.mi.edu/copyright-infringement-policy/): Copyright infringement policy from MI Guitar craft academy. This policy outlines Musicians Institute’s plan to comply with requirements. - [Open House](https://nashville.mi.edu/open-house/): Join our Open House events at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville to get a taste of what it is like as a student at a guitar craft program. - [Financial Aid](https://nashville.mi.edu/financial-aid/): Guitar Craft Academy is dedicated to helping students afford their education through available financial aid opportunities. - [Transfer Credits Statement](https://nashville.mi.edu/transfer-credits-statement/): Guitar Craft Academy does not guarantee the transfer of credits to or from this educational institution or from others. - [About](https://nashville.mi.edu/about/): Learn about GCA's guitar luthier programs- get comprehensive skills in designing & building guitars with real world skills for a career. - [Student Support](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-support/): Our Student Support Center (SSC) at MI Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is dedicated to providing professional development strategies needed to pursue careers in the music and entertainment industry. - [Admissions](https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/): Take the first step in applying to Guitar Craft Academy located in Nashville! Learn about the application process and deadlines. - [Guitar Craft Luthier & Tech Programs](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-craft/): Prepare for a career as a guitar luthier or a guitar repair technician, Guitar Craft Academy gives real world career training. --- ## Posts - [How Does a Guitar Work?](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-does-a-guitar-work/): The guitar is one of the most popular and versatile instruments in the world, found in nearly every genre of music from country and blues to rock and - [Why Do Guitars Lose Their Tune?](https://nashville.mi.edu/why-do-guitars-lose-their-tune/): Here are some common reasons that cause your guitar to slip out of tune more often than it should. Keep these reasons in mind so your guitar is ready to go. - [Tools Needed to Build Your Own Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/tools-needed-to-build-your-own-guitar/): Start your journey in guitar luthiery today! Contact us to learn more about our expert guitar-building program and take the first step. - [Most Common Guitar Problems and How to Fix Them](https://nashville.mi.edu/most-common-guitar-problems-and-how-to-fix-them/): Learn how to fix guitar issues like fret buzz, high action, and intonation problems with easy, step-by-step guides for better sound and playability. - [Most Iconic Guitars in Music Today](https://nashville.mi.edu/most-iconic-guitars-in-music-today/): Dive into the artistry of iconic guitars and see how expert luthiery shapes the sounds of rock's greatest legends - [Career Opportunities for Guitar Luthiers](https://nashville.mi.edu/career-options-for-guitar-luthiers/): Explore the craftsmanship, skills, and career options in guitar making, from building custom instruments to vintage restoration. - [Beginner’s Guide to Re-stringing a Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/beginners-guide-to-re-stringing-a-guitar/): Want step by step instructions for re-stringing a guitar? Guitar Craft Academy is dedicated to helping provide resources to musicians. - [Beginner’s Guide to Tuning a Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/beginners-guide-tuning-a-guitar/): As a beginner guitar player, learning how to tune a guitar is a rite of passage of sorts. Our Guitar Craft Academy team breaks it down step by step. - [How to Become a Guitar Luthier](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-become-a-guitar-luthier/): A guitar luthier works hands-on building, maintaining, and repairing guitars- Guitar Craft Academy lays out the pathway to becoming a pro. - [Keys to a Successful Guitar Repair Apprenticeship](https://nashville.mi.edu/keys-to-a-successful-guitar-repair-apprenticeship/): Looking to learn about becoming a guitar repair apprentice? Guitar Craft Academy is the premier luthier training center in the U.S. - [How to Build a Guitar From Scratch](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-build-a-guitar-from-scratch/): Looking for a step by step explanation of how to build a guitar? Guitar Craft Academy experts walk you through the process. - [Luthier Tools: Learning the Trade of Guitar Craft](https://nashville.mi.edu/luthier-tools-learning-the-trade-of-guitar-craft/): Dive into guitar craftsmanship: essential tools, wood selection, building techniques, and tips from Nashville's finest luthiery program, GCA. - [What Students Can Expect at a Guitar Luthier School](https://nashville.mi.edu/what-students-can-expect-at-a-guitar-luthier-school/): Discover hands-on guitar luthiery at Guitar Craft Academy. Small classes, private lessons, and real world job experience is available to you. - [The Value of Mentorship and Music Schools for Musicians](https://nashville.mi.edu/value-of-mentorship-and-music-schools-for-musician/): Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville explores the topic of mentorship and its value to aspiring musicians in their journey. - [Why Nashville is the Epicenter for Guitar Luthiers](https://nashville.mi.edu/why-nashville-is-the-epicenter-for-guitar-luthiers/): Nashville is the unofficial guitar capital of the U.S., our team at GCA explores the history and the value to prospective guitar luthiers. - [Proper Truss Rod Usage for Correcting Your Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/proper-truss-rod-usage-for-correcting-your-guitar/): Truss Rod Adjustment Made Easy: Guitar Craft Academy shares a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect neck relief for your guitar. - [Guitar Accessories: Unlocking Potential](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-accessories/): Explore a wide range of guitar accessories at Guitar Craft Academy to personalize your instrument, protect it, and unlock new creative possibilities. - [Exploring the Parts of the Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide](https://nashville.mi.edu/parts-of-the-guitar/): A comprehensive look at the anatomy and parts of a guitar, what you need to know with explanation of each piece and its function. - [History and Evolution of the Electric Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/the-electric-guitar-history-and-evolution/): Explore the invention, evolution, and global impact of the electric guitar, a revolutionary instrument that shaped music history. - [Exploring the Impact of Technology on the Guitar Industry](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-technology-is-changing-the-guitar-industry/): Guitar Craft Academy explores how technology has changed the luthiery landscape- from 3D printing, DSP effects, and more. - [The Ultimate Guide to Luthier Tools: What They Are and How They Work](https://nashville.mi.edu/the-ultimate-guide-to-luthier-tools-what-they-are-and-how-they-work-guitar-craft-academy-nashville/): Guitar Craft Academy offers this comprehensive overview about the different types of luthier tools, where to get them, and how to start. - [Essential Steps to Becoming a Guitar Luthier](https://nashville.mi.edu/essential-steps-for-crafting-and-repairing-stringed-instruments/): Follow along as Guitar Craft Academy explores the steps it takes in becoming a guitar luthier, gaining valuable hands-on experience. - [How to Find a Good Guitar Luthier](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-find-a-good-guitar-luthier/): Learn how to find a skilled and professional guitar luthier. Let Guitar Craft Academy be your guide to guitar repair and maintenance. - [Guitar Building Classes](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-winter-programs/): Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville offers guitar building classes, designed for anyone to step in guitar luthiery and repair. - [Requirements to Become A Guitar Luthier](https://nashville.mi.edu/what-are-the-luthier-education-requirements/): Curious about the education requirements to become a luthier? Read from Guitar Craft Academy, located in Nashville! - [How to Become A Guitar Luthier](https://nashville.mi.edu/become-a-luthier/): Learn from the pros- become a guitar luthier at Guitar Craft Academy. Our comprehensive courses are geared towards career preparation. - [Best Way to Store Your Guitar Case](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-store-your-guitar-cases/): Need a solution for storing your guitars? We outlined the best way to store your guitar based on how many and what kind of case. - [Can You Play a Bass on a Guitar Amp?](https://nashville.mi.edu/can-you-play-a-bass-on-a-guitar-amp/): Thinking of using a guitar amp for your bass? Discover why it’s risky, how bass and guitar amps differ, and ways to minimize potential speaker damage. - [How Often Should You Change Guitar Strings?](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-often-should-you-change-guitar-strings/): Here is everything you need to know about when to change guitar strings, including general string care and maintenance of the instrument. - [How to Fix a Hairline Crack in a Guitar Neck](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-fix-a-hairline-crack-in-a-guitar-neck/): If you have a hairline crack in your guitar neck, don't panic! Here's a look at everything you need to do to fix a cracked guitar neck. - [How to Choose Guitar Pickups](https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-choose-guitar-pickups/): Guitar craft experts explain how to choose the right guitar pickups based on your goals and the sound you are trying to curate. - [Proper Humidity for Guitar Storage](https://nashville.mi.edu/proper-humidity-for-guitar-storage/): Looking for the best way to store your guitar? Consider the humidity and follow along as GCA explains the warning signs to look for. - [Tips for Maintaining an Acoustic Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/acoustic-guitar-maintenance-overview-with-darren-gallman/): Guitar Craft Academy is committed to help educate people on guitars, guitar crafts and repairs- follow along for acoustic maintenance tips. - [Highlights from Gibson CEO J.C. Curleigh's](https://nashville.mi.edu/highlights-from-gibson-ceo-j-c-curleighs-visit/): Guitar Craft Academy hosts President and CEO of Gibson Guitars, JC Curleigh. Watch as he talks about the next generation of luthiers. - [Graduate Profile: Dave Sabella](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-dave-sabella/): Curious how to start a guitar business? Meet one of our graduates, Dave Sabella, who now runs his own growing boutique guitar company, Jane Fox Guitars. - [History, Facts, & More about the Fender Telecaster Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-facts-fender-telecaster/): Guitar Craft Academy explores the history, facts, and iconic moments with the Fender Telecaster guitar, follow along to see the impact. - [The Toothpick Trick: Guitar Setup and Maintenance](https://nashville.mi.edu/the-toothpick-trick/): Learn the toothpick guitar trick from David Johnson. Watch as he explains how to fix a worn strap - with a toothpick! - [How to Adjust Guitar Pickup Height](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-pickup-height/): Experts in guitar craft explains everything you need to know about adjusting the pickup height on your guitar in this video. - [Cleaning and Maintaining a Guitar's Electronics](https://nashville.mi.edu/cleaning-a-guitars-electronics/): Get expert advice on cleaning your guitar's electronics from the premiere guitar luthier school in the country- Guitar Craft Academy. - [Adjusting Intonation: Guitar Setup and Maintenance (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-intonation-guitar-setup-and-maintenance/): Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to adjust a guitar's intonation with the help of a strobe tuner. - [How to Use a Strobe Guitar Tuner](https://nashville.mi.edu/using-a-strobe-tuner/): Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how strobe tuners work and how you can use them to adjust your guitar's intonation. - [Adjusting the Nut Slots: Guitar Setup and Maintenance (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-the-nut-slots/): Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to properly adjust the depth, width and angles of your guitar's nut slots. - [Adjusting a Fender Bridge: Guitar Setup and Maintenance (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-a-fender-style-floating-bridge/): Guitar Craft Academy instructor Dave Johnson explains how to properly adjust a Fender-style floating bridge on your guitar. - [Adjusting a Tune-o-Matic Bridge: Guitar Setup and Maintenance (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-a-tune-o-matic-bridge/): Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to adjust a Tune-o-Matic bridge, the standard bridge on Gibson electric guitars. - [Adjusting Guitar Truss Rod - Guitar Setup & Maintenance](https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-the-truss-rod-guitar-setup-and-maintenance/): Tips for setting up, repairing, adjusting, and maintaining the truss rod to your guitar. GCA shares expert insights on your guitar truss rod. - [Introducing Our Guitar Setup and Maintenance Video Series (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/introducing-our-guitar-setup-and-maintenance-video-series/): In this series, Guitar Craft Academy instructor and professional Nashville luthier David Johnson will walk you through each step and also cover electronics cleaning and tightening of hardware to make your guitar play and sound its best. - [Performance Tip from Bruce Buckingham: Why Guitarists Should Read Music](https://nashville.mi.edu/performance-tip-from-bruce-buckingham-why-guitarists-should-read-music/): Learn a guitar performance tip from Bruce Buckingham! Guitar Craft Academy caught up with world-renowned musician, instructor and author. - [Student Profile: Jesse Peery](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-jesse-peery/): A Tennessee mechanical engineer shares his journey of pursuing guitar-making at Guitar Craft Academy and plans to build guitars and give back through a nonprofit. - [Practicing Tip from Ryan Madora: Self-Motivation](https://nashville.mi.edu/practicing-tip-from-ryan-madora-self-motivation/): Ryan Madora explains different tips for practicing guitar and how to build strong habits and make practice fun and easy to do regularly. - [Student Spotlight: Brandt Jewell](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-brandt-jewell/): Discover Brandt Jewell's journey from tinkering with guitars to enrolling in Guitar Craft Academy and building his own unique instrument. - [How to Repair a Back Bowed Guitar Neck](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-mark-lacey-how-to-repair-a-back-bowed-guitar-neck/): Repair a back-bowed guitar neck like a pro! Follow these step-by-step solutions using truss rod adjustments, heat, and clamps to bring your guitar back to life. - [Tech Tip from Dave Johnson: Steaming Out the Heel of an OM-18](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-dave-johnson-steaming-out-the-heel-of-an-om-18/): Resetting the neck of a vintage guitar can be tricky, that is why we wanted to offer helpful tips to get it right. - [Luthiery Student Profile: Minghao Zhu](https://nashville.mi.edu/luthiery-student-profile-minghao-zhu/): For Minghao Zhu, the desire to deepen his understanding of luthiery led him from China to Nashville to attend Guitar Craft Academy. - [Tech Tip: How to Keep Your Guitar Humidified](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-marty-lanham-stay-humidified/): It's important to pay attention to the effect that heat in our homes can have on acoustic instruments. Learn how to prevent guitar damage from low humidity. - [Student Spotlight: Nicholas Worch](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-nicholas-worch/): Take a look at a real Guitar Craft Academy student's experience during their enrollment to see what it looks like to be enrolled. - [Product Spotlight: Premium Tool Kit from Music Nomad](https://nashville.mi.edu/product-spotlight-premium-tool-kit-from-music-nomad/): Guitar Craft Academy discusses a comprehensive guitar tool kit for repairs and maintenance that is easy to use for caring for your guitar. - [Playing Tip from Ryan Madora: Know Your Instrument](https://nashville.mi.edu/playing-tip-from-ryan-madora-know-your-instrument/): Every guitar has its own characteristics. Read more guitar tips from Ryan Madora about getting to know your instrument. - [Student Spotlight: Dave Sabella](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-dave-sabella/): Our student spotlight is Dave Sabella! After working in the advertising industry his entire professional life, he’s branching out into a new career as a luthier. - [Faculty Spotlight: Brian Bonds](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-spotlight-brian-bonds/): Get to know Brian Bonds, a talented faculty member at MI Nashville. Discover his expertise and passion for music education in this faculty spotlight. - [Tech Tip from Dave Johnson: Slide Away](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-dave-johnson-slide-away/): Tech tip from Dave Johnson: Slide Away. Meet the instructors, view programs, and participate in hands-on workshops at MI Guitar Craft Academy. - [Student Spotlight: Brandon Edwards](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-brandon-edwards/): Learn about life at a music college- Brandon Edwards shares his journey and passion to becoming a student at Guitar Craft Academy. - [Tech Tip: Designing a Guitar Body Using Rhinoceros](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-mark-lacey-designing-a-guitar-body-using-rhinoceros/): Most manufacturers and some independent luthiers use CNC machines to build their guitars. The process starts with drawing a design on the computer. - [Ryan Madora in Bass Player Magazine](https://nashville.mi.edu/ryan-madora-in-bass-player-magazine/): The Bass Performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy, Ryan Madora, had an interview with Bass Player Magazine about her playing journey. - [Faculty roundup: What rare instrument do you wish you could own?](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-what-rare-instrument-do-you-wish-you-could-own/): We asked our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville instructors to dream big and tell us what one instrument they would love to own if they could. - [Student Spotlight: Michael Volk](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-michael-volk/): Looking to make the jump to becoming a guitar luthier? Take a look at a real student's journey at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - [Mastering Fretwork: Essential Techniques for Guitar Maintenance](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-fretwork/): Enhance your guitar's tone and playability through the meticulous craft of fretwork. Our tech tip on fretwork covers everything from fret leveling to fine intonation adjustments, empowering you to achieve professional-quality results and a flawless playing experience. - [Faculty Profile: Marty Lanham (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-profile-marty-lanham-video/): "Discover Marty Lanham's profile and expertise as a music faculty member at MI Nashville. Watch the video to learn more about his teaching approach. - [Tech Tip: A Sticky Situation](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-a-sticky-situation/): What type of glue should you use on your guitar and why? Let’s take a quick look at four common types of glue used in making guitars. - [Student Spotlight: Shu Kawai](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-shu-kawai/): Get a real look at what it looks like to be enrolled in Musician Institute's Guitar Craft Academy from the perspective of Shu Kawai. - [Join our Summer Songwriters Club!](https://nashville.mi.edu/summer-songwriters-club/): Wanting to grow as a songwriter? Guitar Craft Academy is hosting a songwriters club to gather like minded people and learn from the best. - [A Closer Look of Guitar Luthier Students at Work](https://nashville.mi.edu/students-work-toward-completion-of-acoustic-electric-project-guitars/): Looking to learn more about what it is like to take a guitar building class or workshop? GCA highlights some students hard at work. - [Faculty Spotlight: Dave Johnson (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-spotlight-dave-johnson-video/): Discover Dave Johnson's musical expertise and teaching approach in this faculty spotlight video. Learn from his wealth of experience at MI Nashville. - [Iconic Guitars: the CF Martin OM](https://nashville.mi.edu/iconic-guitars-the-cf-martin-om/): Interested in iconic guitars? GCA looks at the CD Martin OM and its history, making, and notable musicians to play it like Eric Clapton. - [Guitar Showcase: George Pjetri (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-george-pjetri/): Immerse yourself in the world of guitar with George Pjetri's remarkable showcase. Watch the video to witness his incredible skills and be inspired by his passionate performance at the renowned Nashville Music Institute. - [Graduate Profile: Colton Sipp (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-colton-sipp-video/): Experience the musical journey of Colton Sipp in this inspiring graduate profile video. Discover his talent and achievements at MI Nashville. - [Guitar Showcase: Patrick Berhow (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-patrick-berhow-video/): Witness the awe-inspiring guitar showcase by Patrick Berhow, a true virtuoso of the instrument. Prepare to be amazed by his extraordinary technique and musicality in this exclusive video from the Nashville Music Institute - [How to Remove Guitar Frets](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-removing-frets/): Guitar Craft Academy offers helpful advice on how to use a fret zapper to remove frets from your guitar in a quick and easy way. - [Guitar Showcase: Craig Standridge (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-craig-standridge-video/): Join us for an unforgettable guitar showcase featuring Craig Standridge. Watch the video to witness his remarkable performance, showcasing his exceptional skills and undeniable passion for music at the renowned Nashville Music Institute. - [Student Profile: Brad King](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-brad-king/): Guitar Craft Academy puts the spotlight on Brad King and his journey into music and what he loves about being a student here. - [Q&A: Ryan Madora, Guitar Craft Academy bass instructor](https://nashville.mi.edu/qa-ryan-madora-guitar-craft-academy-bass-instructor/): We caught up with Ryan Madora, bass performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy, to discuss her career and her work at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. - [Student's First Guitar Sale](https://nashville.mi.edu/students-first-guitar-sale/): As a guitar luthier, getting that first sale is like a rite of passage, further confirmation that you are part of a special group. - [Playing Tip from Tim Venerosa: Focused Practice Makes Perfect](https://nashville.mi.edu/playing-tip-from-tim-venerosa-focused-practice-makes-perfect/): Take your playing to the next level with Tim Venerosa's insider advice on focused practice at the Nashville Music Institute. Learn how to optimize your practice routine and unleash your full potential as a musician. - [Student Profile: Tiernan McKinney](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-tiernan-mckinney/): We take a look at Tiernan McKinney and his path to being a student at Guitar Craft Academy- learn from real people what GCA is all about. - [Tennessee Twosome (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/tennessee-twosome-video/): Guitar Craft Academy is proud to be part of our local academy, we recently visited some schools in the Nashville area about what we do. - [How to Adjust a Guitar Truss Rod](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-trust-rod-adjustment-video/): Looking for advice on how to adjust the truss rod of your guitar? This video walks you through the process step by step. - [Exploring Faculty Gear: Dive into the Instruments and Equipment We Use](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-what-gear-are-you-playing/): We caught up with some of our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty members to find out what gear has been recently impressing them. - [Student Profile: Lisa Owens](https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-lisa-owens/): Guitar Craft Academy shines the spotlight on Lisa Owen's unique journey as a musician and her path to becoming a student. - [Tech Tip: Keep Your Guitar Wiring Tidy](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-keep-your-wiring-tidy/): When wiring your guitar, be sure to keep it neat. Here are some tips for how to limit loose wiring underneath a pick guard or control cavity. - [Graduate Profile: Jeremy Smith](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-jeremy-smith/): Witness the transformative impact of MI Nashville on Jeremy Smith's musical journey. Explore his graduate profile to gain insights into his growth, achievements, and passion for creating music. - [How to Hand-Wind a Guitar Pick-up](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-how-to-wind-a-pickup-video/): Adjusting and setting the pick-up of your guitar is essential to keep it sounding right- see how you can hand wind it for best practices. - [Unveiling Our Musical Tastes: A Wide Range of Tastes and Flavors](https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-listening-isbell-alvvays-seal-les-paul-timmons/): We caught up with our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty members to talk about the music that they're listening to lately. - [Purpose of Guitar Bar Frets](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-bar-frets/): Guitar Craft Academy explores all about guitar bar frets- when and why they were used in guitar making. - [Tech Tip: Using a Clamping Caul](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-using-a-clamping-caul/): Often, during a repair job, a clamping caul is needed. Many guitars require several clamping procedures that need a custom-cut caul. - [Graduate Profile: Patrick Berhow (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-patrick-berhow-video/): Experience the inspiring story of Patrick Berhow, a talented graduate of MI Nashville. Watch his captivating video graduate profile and discover how he harnessed his musical passion to achieve success in the industry. - [Tech Tip: Book Match](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-book-match/): We use the term 'book match' frequently in the guitar trade. People often ask: What does 'book match' mean? Find out from an experienced guitar luthier. - [Graduate Profile: Craig Standridge (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-craig-standridge-video/): Discover the musical journey of Craig Standridge, a talented graduate of MI Nashville. Watch his captivating video graduate profile and learn how he honed his skills and achieved success in the music industry. - [Tech Tip: Installing an Inlay into a Guitar Fretboard](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-installing-an-inlay/): Installing a guitar Inlay can be a difficult process to execute properly. Here's a demo of inlaying a block inlay into a bass neck. - [Iconic Guitars: the Gibson J-200](https://nashville.mi.edu/iconic-guitars-gibson-j200-marty-lanham/): Explore the legendary Gibson J-200 guitar with Marty Lanham in this captivating showcase. Learn about its iconic status and experience its rich sound and timeless appeal at the Nashville Music Institute. - [Graduate Profile: George Pjetri (Video)](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-george-pjetri-video/): Meet George Pjetri, a MI Nashville graduate who has made a mark in the music industry. Watch his video profile and witness the impact of his education at MI on his career. - [Graduate Profile: Benny Burrows](https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-benny-burrows/): Explore the musical journey and achievements of Benny Burrows, a talented graduate from MI Nashville. - [Tech Tip: Refretting a Guitar](https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-refretting/): It’s never a pleasant experience to install new frets, only to find out that they won’t seat properly. Here's a tip from a guitar tech to help. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages > SIGN UP FORM - Published: 2024-06-10 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/summershot/summershot-application/ SIGN UP FORM /* */ Step 1 of 8 12% First Name*Last Name*Age RequirementsStudents attending Nashville Guitar Craft Academy Summer Shot Guitar Building must be at least 14 years of age in order to attend. Date of Birth* MM slash DD slash YYYY Gender* Male Female Prefer Not to Answer Country of Citizenship*UNITED STATESCANADAAFGHANISTANALBANIAALGERIAAMERICAN SAMOAANDORRAANGOLAANGUILLAANTARCTICAANTIGUA AND BAR. ARGENTINAARMENIAARUBAAUSTRALIAAUSTRIAAZERBAIJANBAHAMASBAHRAINBANGLADESHBARBADOSBELARUSBELGIUMBELIZEBENINBERMUDABHUTANBOLIVIABOSNIABOTSWANABOUVET ISLANDBRAZILBRITISH INDIANBRUNEI DARUSS. BULGARIABURKINA FASOBURUNDICAMBODIACAMEROONCAPE VERDECAYMAN ISLANDSCENTRAL AFRICANCHADCHILECHINACHRISTMAS ISLANDCOCOS ISLANDSCOLOMBIACOMOROSCONGOCONGO, THE DEM. COOK ISLANDSCOSTA RICACROATIACUBACYPRUSCZECH REPUBLICCÔTE D'IVOIREDENMARKDJIBOUTIDOMINICADOMINICAN REP. ECUADOREGYPTEL SALVADOREQUATORIAL GUIERITREAESTONIAETHIOPIAFALKLAND ISLANDSFAROE ISLANDSFIJIFINLANDFRANCEFRENCH GUIANAFRENCH POLYNESIAFRENCH SOUTHGABONGAMBIAGEORGIAGERMANYGHANAGIBRALTARGREECEGREENLANDGRENADAGUADELOUPEGUAMGUATEMALAGUERNSEYGUINEAGUINEA-BISSAUGUYANAHAITIHEARD ISLANDHOLY SEE VATICHONDURASHONG KONGHUNGARYICELANDINDIAINDONESIAIRAN, ISLAMICIRAQIRELANDISLE OF MANISRAELITALYItalyJAMAICAJAPANJERSEYJORDANKAZAKHSTANKENYAKIRIBATIKOREA, DEM. KOREA, REP. KUWAITKYRGYZSTANKosovoLAO PEOPLE'S DEM. LATVIALEBANONLESOTHOLIBERIALIBYAN ARABLIECHTENSTEINLITHUANIALUXEMBOURGMACAOMACEDONIAMADAGASCARMALAWIMALAYSIAMALDIVESMALIMALTAMARSHALL ISL. MARTINIQUEMAURITANIAMAURITIUSMAYOTTEMEXICOMICRONESIAMOLDOVAMONACOMONGOLIAMONTENEGROMONTSERRATMOROCCOMOZAMBIQUEMYANMARNAMIBIANAURUNEPALNETHERLANDNETHERLANDSNEW CALEDONIANEW ZEALANDNICARAGUANIGERNIGERIANIUENORFOLK ISLANDNORTHERN MAR. NORWAYOMANPAKISTANPALAUPALESTINIANPANAMAPAPUA NEW GUINEAPARAGUAYPERUPHILIPPINESPITCAIRNPOLANDPORTUGALPUERTO RICOQATARROMANIARUSSIAN FEDERATIONRWANDARÉUNIONSAINT BARTHÉLEMYSAINT HELENASAINT KITTSSAINT LUCIASAINT MARTINSAINT PIERRESAINT VINCENTSAMOASAN MARINOSAO TOME AND PRI. SAUDI ARABIASENEGALSERBIASEYCHELLESSIERRA LEONESINGAPORESLOVAKIASLOVENIASOLOMON ISLANDSSOMALIASOUTH AFRICASOUTH GEORGIASPAINSRI LANKASUDANSURINAMESVALBARDSWAZILANDSWEDENSWITZERLANDSYRIAN ARAB REP. SwitzerlandTAIWAN, PROVINCETAJIKISTANTANZANIA, UNITEDTHAILANDTIMOR-LESTETOGOTOKELAUTONGATRINIDAD AND TOB. TUNISIATURKEYTURKMENISTANTURKS AND CAICOSTUVALUTahitiUGANDAUKRAINEUNITED ARAB EMIR. UNITED KINGDOMUNITED STATES MIN. URUGUAYUZBEKISTANVANUATUVENEZUELAVIET NAMVIRGIN ISL. U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDSWALLIS AND FUT. WESTERN SAHARAYEMENZAMBIAZIMBABWEÅLAND ISLANDS Email* Phone*Is your current mailing address US or International? *selectUSInternationalUS Address* Street Address Address Line 2 City AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU. S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific State ZIP Code International Address* Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code selectAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechia { if (... --- > Guitar Craft Academy is committed to safety and security- read along to learn more about campus safety measures. - Published: 2023-09-25 - Modified: 2024-09-17 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/safety-and-security/ Campus Safety and Security Campus Safety and Security Survey Completion Certificate --- > Learn more about guitar design & construction through our luthiery program. Acoustic & Electric Guitar. Guitar Lessons. Call Today! - Published: 2022-02-10 - Modified: 2024-05-28 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/learn-more/ MI Guitar Craft Academy - Nashville (function (w, d, s, l, i) { w = w || ; w. push({ 'gtm. start': new Date. getTime, event: 'gtm. js' }); var f = d. getElementsByTagName(s), j = d. createElement(s), dl = l ! = 'dataLayer' ? '&l=' + l : ''; j. async = true; j. src = 'https://www. googletagmanager. com/gtm. js? id=' + i + dl; f. parentNode. insertBefore(j, f); })(window, document, 'script', 'dataLayer', 'GTM-TBVB9J5'); Our school, located in Nashville, Tennessee, offers comprehensive training in guitar design, construction and maintenance of both acoustic and electric guitars. If you have a passion for music and love working creatively with your hands, then Guitar Craft Academy has a career for you. RESULTS In just nine months, you can earn a certificate in Guitar Craft by learning how to build and repair electric and acoustic guitars, all inside our fully equipped facility in Nashville. EXPERIENCE Our faculty members are esteemed Nashville luthiers boasting decades of experience in guitar design, craftsmanship and repair, and have built and repaired guitars for industry legends. LOCATION Attending Guitar Craft Academy places you in the heart of the thriving music scene in Nashville, Tennessee — home to countless local and national musicians, as well as the headquarters of Gibson USA. SKILLS Students receive hands-on training in design, fabrication, fretwork and setup, repair, electronics and finish work, as well as weekly private instruction in instrument performance techniques. SUCCESS Our graduates have gone on to work for employers including the... --- > Join us at the MI Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville for an exciting workshop on guitar setup and maintenance. Sign up today! - Published: 2019-06-17 - Modified: 2025-03-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-setup-and-maintenance-workshop/ Guitar setup and maintenance workshopMarch 22, 2025 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM 5000 Harding Place, Nashville, TN 37211Come spend a day at MI Guitar Craft Academy Nashville and learn the technical craft of guitar setup and maintenance. You will leave with a firm foundation and knowledge of proper mechanics and playability of guitars. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Tools involved Properly change strings String height Intonation Nut height Truss rod Fretboard radius Pickup height Properly clean and care for your instrument Those that attend must bring their own guitar for the setup instructions. INSTRUCTORSTEVEN MATHER GCA Nashville Instructor Steven Mather is a San Francisco Bay area native who moved to Nashville 7 years ago. He’s been playing music since his teens, and he started doing minor repair work in high school while working in a local guitar shop. After enrolling in a bass program at Musicians Institute’s Hollywood location in 2006, he realized that guitar building and repair were where his true interests lay. Before moving to Nashville to work at GCA Nashville, Steven spent time in Austin, Texas, working at Collings Guitars and in Los Angeles at boutique builder Thorn Custom Guitars. At Thorn, he did inlay work for Fender’s Custom Shop and Gretsch. Stephen also spent two years working for the Masterbuilt area of the Fender Custom Shop in Corona, CA. He says Nashville has been a great fit for him: “I felt comfortable here immediately. The luthier community here is something I hadn’t experienced before — warm and welcoming,... --- > Looking to get tips and tricks about guitar setup and maintenance? Check out these helpful articles from the pros at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - Published: 2018-12-07 - Modified: 2022-06-08 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/blog/ GUITAR CRAFT ACADEMY BLOG --- > As an international student at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, you will receive an excellent education in guitar building, setup, maintenance, and more! - Published: 2018-08-02 - Modified: 2022-06-14 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/international-students/ INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS As an international student at Musicians Institute, you will not only receive an excellent education in contemporary music, but you will also enjoy the opportunity to build professional and personal relationships that last a lifetime. International students make up nearly one-fourth of MI’s total student population, representing more than 50 countries throughout the world while creating a unique and diverse learning environment. OVERVIEW HEALTH INSURANCE INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PROCESS INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SERVICES VISA OPTIONS ESL PROGRAM HOMESTAY ASSISTANCE OVERVIEW The International Student Office is dedicated to making the transition from each student’s home country to MI’s Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville as smooth and easy as possible. We offer a wide range of services for international students, including: Housing & Roommate Assistance An ESL Program for language skills Assistance with obtaining visas & work permits Academic advising Personal counseling & tutoring Career counseling HEALTH INSURANCE Musicians Institute requires all new and continuing International Students to have a minimum standard of health insurance coverage. Musicians Institute is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant foreign national students and MI follows a policy of equal opportunity in all of its educational activities. Musicians Institute encourages all new and continuing International Students to have a minimum standard of health insurance coverage. This is due to recent health care reform measures; the high cost of medical care in the United States; and the desire of our school to provide options that ensure the continued health and safety of our students. Musicians Institute has... --- > Musicians Institute offers many different types of scholarships that can help students with the costs of enrollment. Learn more about our scholarships. - Published: 2018-08-02 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/scholarship/ SCHOLARSHIPSMI and Guitar Craft Academy offer many different types of scholarships that can help students with the costs of enrollment. Education dollars are available on a regular basis for a wide variety of scholarship categories. Please read below for some general Information about the MI / Guitar Craft Academy Scholarships: Scholarship Amounts and Method of Award Scholarships are awarded in the form of tuition credit only. The total award amount will be determined after a review of your application. The total award amount is divided by the number of quarters in your program and credited equally toward each quarter’s tuition (except The Musicians Foundation Scholarships and MI Hardship Scholarship, which is a one-time award). Application and Notification Scholarships are available to students enrolling in a new program. Before you submit a scholarship application, you must apply to a program and have a Welcome Letter or Letter of Acceptance from MI’s Admission Department. Completed applications submitted by the appropriate deadline will be reviewed and applicants will be notified of the results within two weeks after the deadline. Other Information All scholarships are non-transferable and may not be applied to any other person, program, or start date other than those for which they were originally awarded. Scholarship recipients who fail to meet minimum academic requirements during their enrollment will forfeit any remaining award balance (see scholarship applications for specific requirements). AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPSDevelopment Scholarship Development Scholarships are provided to encourage the educational growth of new students enrolled in a degree or certificate program.... --- > Guitar Craft Academy Nashville has partnered with Flywire to streamline the tuition payment process for our students who need to wire funds to the college. - Published: 2018-08-02 - Modified: 2023-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/billing-and-payments/ BILLING & PAYMENTS Musicians Institute has partnered with Flywire for international payments to streamline the tuition payment process for our students who need to wire funds to the college. MI does not charge you for using the Flywire. However, your local bank may charge fees to initiate a transfer on your behalf. INTERNATIONAL PAYMENTS Plan ahead and wire your payment far enough in advance to ensure that it reaches MI before the payment deadline. Wired funds transactions can take 2-5 business days to complete after your local bank initiates payment to Flywire. HOW IT WORKS Flywire accept payments from any country - typically in your home currency. They work to secure wholesale foreign exchange rates and lower transfer fees that are lower than traditional banks. Once you initiate payment on mi. flywire. com, you will receive detailed instructions on how to transfer funds to MI. Flywire will keep you informed every step in the process, including when funds reach your student account. Create a booking with Flywire every time you need to send money to MI. You can be assured that you will never have a short-payment due to unexpected transfer fees or bank charges. For more information, view the videos about Flywire and how to make payment using Flywire. After you've made your payment - Log back in to the Flywire website to review the status of your payment. MI will be notified once Flywire has guaranteed the funds, even if it is not credited to your account yet.... --- > Learn about the cost of tuition and fees at MI Nashville and invest in your musical journey. Explore our flexible payment plans and scholarship options. - Published: 2018-08-02 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/tuition-and-fees/ TUITION & FEESAt MI, you’ll find students from every creative and cultural background united by a common desire to excel. It’s not only about studying and practicing—it’s about getting to know your fellow students to form friendships and musical relationships that will last. CERTIFICATE QUARTER PER QUARTER TOTAL CREDITS PER CREDIT TOTAL Guitar Craft 2 $7,995. 00 30 $533. 00 $15,990. 00 Guitar Craft/Acoustic Design 3 $7,995. 00 45 $533. 00 $23,985. 00 TUITION DEPOSIT: $300. 00 All programs are refundable. This program trains students in the full spectrum of contemporary luthiery skills, with core classes including Instrument Design, Instrument Fabrication, Fretwork & Setup, Instrument Repair, Electronics, and Finish Work. During the program, every student designs and builds a custom electric guitar or bass for their personal use. Each student also receives weekly private instruction in stylistic instrument performance techniques. CERTIFICATE Application (non-refundable) Materials (non-refundable) Other Fees Per Quarter Technology Fee (non-refundable) TOTAL Guitar Craft $100. 00 $600. 00 $0. 00 $15. 00 $730. 00 Guitar Craft / Acoustic Design $100. 00 $600. 00 $0. 00 $15. 00 $745. 00 Tuition and fees for all programs are charged on a quarterly basis and are due at the time of registration for each quarter of instruction. All programs require students to source their own materials, software and equipment. Students are not allowed to enter MI facilities or attend classes until required tuition and fees are paid in full. See student Billing department for current information. Costs vary according to manufacturer prices... --- > Experience top-quality, hands-on instruction from professionals at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, using state-of-the-art equipment in our modern facility. Enroll now! - Published: 2018-08-01 - Modified: 2024-04-16 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/facilities-equipment/ FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT Facilities 01 Facilities 02 Facilities 03 Facilities 04 Facilities 05 Facilities 06 Facilities 07 Facilities 08 Facilities 09 Facilities 10 Facilities 11 Facilities 12 Facilities 13 Facilities 14 Program requirements, course information, and GCA details. Admissions department is ready to answer any questions! 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. --- > Get to know the amazing faculty and staff at Musicians Institute's Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. Contact us to learn more and get started. - Published: 2018-08-01 - Modified: 2022-07-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty/ FACULTY Bonds, Brian COURSES: Instrument Performance (Guitar) SPECIALTIES: Country, Blues, Rock, Metal, Jazz CREDITS: Toured Internationally with Florida Georgia Line, Chely Wright, Love and Theft, Tantric and Chase Rice HONORS & EDUCATION: Brian has also appeared on The Tonight Show, Conan O’Brian, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Today Show, The Ellen Degeneres Show, Good Morning America and countless other TV and award shows. He has earned several gold and multi-platinum records and has been part of over 10 million singles. Buckingham, Bruce COURSES: Instrument Performance (Guitar) SPECIALTIES: Jazz, Latin, Funk, Contemporary, Pop and Rock styles of music CREDITS: Bruce has worked with a wide variety of musicians including Helen Ready, John Pattitrucci and has recorded with Michael Jackson’s production company for the play “Sisterella” as well as many independent projects. Bruce has taught and written MI curriculum for many courses at Musicians Institute Hollywood and MI Japan for over 30 years. HONORS & EDUCATION: Graduate of Guitar Institute of Technology, studied privately with Joe Diorio, Ron Eschete, Don Mock, Jimmy Wyble, Ted Green, Lenny Breau, Pat Martino, and Joe Pass Butler, Kelly COURSES: Instrument Repair, Fretwork Setup, Electronics, Instrument Design, Instrument Fabrication, Finish Work SPECIALTIES: Designed & prototyped Gibson Custom Models CREDITS: Gibson Custom Art & Historic Pro Shop designer, custom builder, lead repair; First Act Custom Division General Manager & Chief Luthier HONORS & EDUCATION: Graduate of Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery; patented inventor of guitar parts Gallman, Daren Johnson, Dave COURSES: Instrument Design, Instrument Fabrication, Fretwork Setup, Electronics, Instrument Repair,... --- > Guitar Craft Academy is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2023-09-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-consumer-disclosure/ STUDENT CONSUMER DISCLOSURE AUTHORIZATION Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the programs offered by Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy, please visit www. tn. gov/thec/ and click on the Authorized Institutions Data link under Recent Reports at the bottom of the screen. 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. Program requirements, course information, and GCA details. Admissions department is ready to answer any questions! 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. --- > Comprehensive training for guitar luthiers, covering design, construction & maintenance offered by Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2025-06-30 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/ GUITAR CRAFT ACADEMY NASHVILLELearn from Renowned Builders and Develop Valuable Skills in Guitar CraftSee the upcoming events at MI Guitar Craft Academy Nashville! FALL CLASSES BEGIN OCTOBER 6, 2025 Join us in Nashville at MI Guitar Craft Academy in October 2025 for the start of classes! Open House • July 19, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Reserve your spot now! NEW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR FALL 2025 Deadlines are fast approaching! Get started today! Summer Shot • June 24th - 28th, 2024 Spend a whirlwind week in Nashville at MI Guitar Craft Academy, where you can get deeper into the music industry and have an unforgettable summer experience. LEARN MORE ABOUT MI NASHVILLE New Scholarships Available Fall 2025 OPEN HOUSETO BE ANNOUNCED, 2025 Fall Classes October 6, 2025 SUMMER SHOTJune 23 - June 27, 2025NASHVILLE GUITAR PROGRAMS SUMMER SHOT June 23rd - June 27th, 2025 MAINTENANCE WORKSHOP March 22, 2025 GUITAR CRAFT / LUTHIERY TWO ACADEMIC QUARTERSTHE MISSION Musicians Institute’s Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is dedicated to inspiring excellence in the art of guitar building and design, while preparing students for careers in the music industry. By providing hands-on instruction from top professionals in a state-of-the-art educational environment, we give students the skills necessary to achieve their goals. We strive to develop a diverse array of talented individuals... --- > Guitar Craft Academy offers classes and resources for prospective guitar luthiers- this page will get you connected to gather more info. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2023-12-22 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/request-info/ REQUEST INFOThe Musicians Institute Guitar Craft program gives you the satisfaction of creating a guitar from scratch with your own hands, in a classroom that’s an industry standard workshop. You’ll learn all the skills that top manufacturing companies are looking for—from designing and building to electronic wiring, repairing and quality control. First Name*Last Name*Email* Phone*Program of Interest*Guitar CraftAmplifier Building WorkshopGuitar Setup and Maintenance WorkshopSummershotPrivate Guitar LessonsCountry of Citizenship*Select OneUnited StatesAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarctivaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArubaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish IndianBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCoco IslandsColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCyprusCzech RepublicIvory CoastDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench SouthGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard IslandHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKuwaitKyrgyzstanKosovoLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorwayNorthern Mariana IslandsOmanPakistanPalauPalestinePanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaReunionSaint BarthelemySaint HelenaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint PierreSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbia and MontenegroSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth GeorgiaSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbardSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTurks and CaicosTuvaluTahitiUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited States Min. United StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U. S. Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland IslandsIs your current mailing address US or International? selectUSInternationalUS Address Street Address Address Line 2 City AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU. S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific State ZIP Code International Address Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code selectAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo, Democratic Republic... --- > Musicians Institute is committed to providing prospective students with all the information they need to make informed decisions about their education. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2023-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduation-rate/ MI is committed to providing current and prospective students as well as the campus community with full disclosure of all consumer information as required by federal regulations. The laws are intended to allow students the opportunity to make fully informed choices about the institute they wish to attend. The federal College Navigator web site sources the U. S. Department of Education’s vast database of provide information on individual schools in several categories, such as general information, tuition, fees and estimated student expenses, admissions, programs, majors and accreditation. For example, you may like to know more about the overall graduation rate, also known as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). It tracks the progress of students who began their studies as full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking students to see if they complete a degree or other award such as a certificate within 150% of “normal time” for completing the program in which they are enrolled. View Musicians Institute’s data at College Navigator Program requirements, course information, and further GCA details. Our admissions department is happy to answer your questions! The first step in applying is to complete an Application for Admission. --- > Copyright infringement policy from MI Guitar craft academy. This policy outlines Musicians Institute’s plan to comply with requirements. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2022-08-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/copyright-infringement-policy/ Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement. The US Department of Education issued a “Dear Colleague” letter regarding compliance with The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA) HEOA includes provisions that are designed to reduce the illegal uploading and downloading of copyrighted material through peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing. These provisions include requirements that: institutions certify to the Secretary of Education that they have developed plans to “effectively combat” the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material. institutions make an annual disclosure that informs students that the illegal distribution of copyrighted materials may subject them to criminal and civil penalties and describes the steps that institutions will take to detect and punish illegal distribution of copyrighted materials. institutions publicize alternatives to illegal file sharing. The policy outlines Musicians Institute's plan to comply with these requirements. Plans to “Effectively Combat” the Unauthorized Distribution of Copyrighted Material Musician Institute currently employs bandwidth-shaping technology to prioritize network traffic, and blocks students’ ability to access these sites from the student computer networks. Musicians Institute responds promptly to legitimate notices or letters of illegal copyright infringement based on the requirements of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act... --- > Join our Open House events at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville to get a taste of what it is like as a student at a guitar craft program. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2025-06-11 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/open-house/ GUITAR CRAFT ACADEMY OPEN HOUSECome experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at Musicians Institute. Select your program of choice, meet your Program Chair, view a brief program-specific presentation and participate in a Q&A session. Find out for yourself why thousands of musicians from all over the world have made MI the launching pad for their careers. Reserve your spot now! Space is extremely limited. We will close our reservations list when we reach full capacity. Don’t miss your chance to attend. RSVP NOW! Next Open House is July 19, 2025 • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM First Name*Last Name*Phone Number*Email* Zip / Postal Code*How Did You Hear About our Open House? *Select OneAcceptedCampus TourCollege Search SiteForeign AgencyHigh School Counselor/TeacheriHeartradioEmailMI BlogMI EmployeeMI WebsiteMI Nashville WebsiteOutreach EventReferral (friend)RevolverSocial MediaStudent ReferralWalk-byWeibo Chinese AccountWord of MouthThis field is hidden when viewing the formOpenHouseDateThis field is hidden when viewing the formmiCampaignCommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ LOCATION Program requirements, course information, and further GCA details. Our admissions department is happy to answer your questions! The first step in applying is to complete an Application for Admission. APPROVAL AND... --- > Guitar Craft Academy is dedicated to helping students afford their education through available financial aid opportunities. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2022-12-21 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/financial-aid/ FINANCIAL AID Covering the cost of education can be difficult, from tuition to class materials and supplies to everyday living expenses. MI is committed to helping students with every available financial aid opportunity. The following tabs will assist you with estimating costs and provide information on private and federal financial assistance options. What are the general requirements for receiving financial aid? There are several requirements for you to receive federal or state financial aid. A few of the main ones include: Valid Social Security Number (federal aid) U. S. citizenship or permanent resident status (federal aid) High school diploma or equivalent Males between the ages of 18 and 26 must be registered with Selective Service Maintaining satisfactory academic progress while attending MI Satisfactory repayment status of prior Federal student loans Satisfactory payment arrangements of prior Federal grant overpayments Enrolled in an eligible program of study Instructions on completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): FAFSA Instructions Create an FSA ID so you can log on to the FAFSA website, here's some tips: FSA Tip Sheet The cost of living while attending MI Guitar Craft Academy Nashville varies with each student’s personal needs. Below are sample living expense budgets per month for the 2016-17 academic year based on average costs statewide. To arrive at a total cost for your program, multiply the monthly costs by the number of months in that program (for example, Certificate in Guitar Craft = Six months). Student living at home with parents (per month):... --- > Guitar Craft Academy does not guarantee the transfer of credits to or from this educational institution or from others. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2024-05-28 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/transfer-credits-statement/ An important statement about credits earned at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Credits earned at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft may not transfer to another educational institution. Credits earned at another educational institution may not be accepted by Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy. You should obtain confirmation that Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy will accept any credits you have earned at another educational institution before you execute an enrollment contract or agreement. Credits earned at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy may not transfer to another educational institution. Credits earned at another educational institution may not be accepted by Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy. You should obtain confirmation that Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy will accept any credits you have earned at another educational institution before you execute an enrollment contract or agreement. You should also contact any educational institutions that you may want to transfer credits earned at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy to determine if such institutions will accept credits earned at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy prior to executing an enrollment contract or agreement. The ability to transfer credits from Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy to another educational institution may be very limited. Your credits may not transfer and you may have to repeat courses previously taken at Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy if you enroll in another educational institution. You should never assume that credits will transfer to or from any educational institution. It is highly recommended and you are advised to make certain that you know the... --- > Learn about GCA's guitar luthier programs- get comprehensive skills in designing & building guitars with real world skills for a career. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2024-07-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/about/ LEARN THE HISTORY TO MI GUITAR CRAFT ACADEMY IN NASHVILLEMusicians Institute’s Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is dedicated to inspiring excellence in the art of guitar building and design, while preparing students for careers in the music industry. By providing hands-on instruction from top professionals in a state-of-the-art educational environment, we give students the skills necessary to achieve their goals. We strive to develop a diverse array of talented individuals who can enrich the global community by contributing their expertise and craftsmanship. The Guitar Craft Academy (GCA) provides intensive, hands-on training in the specialized skills of luthiery—the art of guitar building and technical maintenance. In just six months at GCA, you will be trained to design, fabricate and finish your own electric guitar or bass—turning raw wood into a completed instrument of your own creation. You’ll also gain detailed knowledge of: Guitar Pickups & Fretwork Wiring Modifications Repairs & Maintenance Advanced Electronics You will also develop musical skills through weekly private lessons focused on sound, design, and technique. In addition to giving you the satisfaction of taking home an instrument you built with your own hands, GCA will train you to work in the music industry, preparing you for careers including: Working at a guitar maintenance and repair shop Being a luthier for a custom boutique shop Touring as a guitar/bass tech for artists and bands DIVERSITY STATEMENT Musicians Institute is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment for the community it serves. Members of the MI community include students,... --- > Our Student Support Center (SSC) at MI Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is dedicated to providing professional development strategies needed to pursue careers in the music and entertainment industry. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-support/ STUDENT SUPPORT CENTER | MI GUITAR CRAFT ACADEMY - NASHVILLEStudent Support Center (SSC) helps students maximize the benefits of their educational and social experience at Musicians Institute, while providing the professional development strategies needed to pursue careers in the music and entertainment industry. By creating a supportive environment to facilitate the goals of each student, the SSC is dedicated to ensuring the best opportunities for success in the real world upon graduation and beyond. COUNSELING SERVICES Through one-on-one appointments, group workshops, tutoring sessions and a variety of additional resources, SSC counselors can provide assistance to current students and alumni in the following areas:STUDENT AFFAIRS The Student Affairs office offers a multitude of services and strategies to help students overcome any challenges they may face during their time at MI. These services and strategies include: Personal Counseling - Assistance is available in resolving personal difficulties or adjusting to campus life. Students can meet one-on-one with a counselor, and all conversations are confidential. Our staff counselor is available weekly, free of charge, for half-hour and hour-long sessions. Tutor Scheduling – Students who would like additional academic assistance may submit a tutor request form to the Student Affairs Office. Tutor sessions are provided free of charge, and tutors will be assigned based on their availability, and the sessions are arranged around the tutor and student’s schedules. Tutors and students will meet for a one-hour session, once a week, for two weeks. Additional sessions may be requested after completing the second session. After the... --- > Take the first step in applying to Guitar Craft Academy located in Nashville! Learn about the application process and deadlines. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/admissions/ ADMISSIONS At MI you’ll find students from every creative and cultural background united by a common desire to excel. It’s not only about studying and practicing, it’s about getting to know your fellow students to form friendships and musical relationships that will last. The first step in applying to Guitar Craft Academy Nashville is to complete an application form. APPLICATION DEADLINES The Admissions Department must receive a completed written application, all official documents/required materials by the deadlines. Fully completed applications will be reviewed with placement priority given to the applications received prior to the established due dates. Accepted applicants will be notified by mail and telephone. Applicants who are not accepted will receive notification by mail only, along with the specific reasons for non-acceptance. For your application to be considered for final approval you must submit all items below: Copy of Photo ID (driver’s license or passport) Copy of your high school diploma or equivalent (must be in English, high school seniors submit your diploma when you graduate) $300 tuition deposit (refundable- see catalog for details, you may send one check for the application fee and deposit at a time of initial application) Application for Admission DOWNLOAD GCA Brochure DOWNLOAD GCA Nashville Campus Map DOWNLOAD Guitar Craft Academy Nashville cannot guarantee the transferability of credit except between its own degree programs. If the credits or certificate that you earn at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required... --- > Prepare for a career as a guitar luthier or a guitar repair technician, Guitar Craft Academy gives real world career training. - Published: 2016-08-19 - Modified: 2024-01-10 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-craft/ Guitar Craft Program Certificate in Guitar Craft Certificate of Guitar Craft - Acoustic Guitar Design Nashville, TN MI’s Guitar Craft program offers comprehensive training in guitar design, construction and maintenance of both electric and acoustic guitars. In keeping with MI’s total-immersion approach to education, the classroom is a fully-equipped instrument manufacturing facility. 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. LEARN MORE ABOUT MI NASHVILLE OPEN HOUSE March 12, 2022 SETUP & MAINTENANCE March 19, 2022 CLASSES BEGIN April 4, 2022 SUMMER SHOT 2022 June 20 - 24, 2022 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... --- --- ## Posts > The guitar is one of the most popular and versatile instruments in the world, found in nearly every genre of music from country and blues to rock and - Published: 2025-06-21 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-does-a-guitar-work/ - Categories: Playing Tip, Tech Tip The guitar is one of the most popular and versatile instruments in the world, found in nearly every genre of music from country and blues to rock and classical. But have you ever wondered how this six-stringed instrument actually produces sound? Whether you're a beginner picking up your first guitar or a seasoned player curious about the mechanics, understanding how a guitar works can deepen your appreciation for the instrument.   In this blog, we’ll break down the science, anatomy, and physics behind how a guitar turns vibrations into music. The Basics: Strings and Vibration At its core, a guitar works by converting the energy of vibrating strings into audible sound. When you pluck, strum, or pick a string, it vibrates at a specific frequency, which determines the pitch of the note. The frequency (how fast the string vibrates) depends on three main factors: String Length – Pressing a string against a fret shortens its vibrating length, producing a higher pitch. String Tension – Tighter strings (higher tension) vibrate faster, creating higher notes. String Thickness – Thicker strings vibrate slower, producing lower pitches. This is why the low E-string is thicker than the high E-string—it’s designed to produce deeper tones. The Role of the Guitar Body: Resonance and Amplification While the strings create the initial vibration, the guitar’s body plays a crucial role in shaping and amplifying the sound. In an acoustic guitar, the vibrations travel through the bridge into the soundboard (the top of the guitar), which resonates and... --- > Here are some common reasons that cause your guitar to slip out of tune more often than it should. Keep these reasons in mind so your guitar is ready to go. - Published: 2025-05-02 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/why-do-guitars-lose-their-tune/ - Categories: Playing Tip, Tech Tip Your guitar is an intricately designed instrument that will provide the desired chords and tone when properly tuned. Unfortunately, as any musician knows all too well, there are times when even the most cherished instrument will fail to hold its tune properly. This can be the result of all sorts of issues. Here are some common reasons to consider that will cause your guitar to slip out of tune more often than it should. Your guitar is an intricately designed instrument that will provide the desired chords and tone when properly tuned. Unfortunately, as any musician knows all too well, there are times when even the most cherished instrument will fail to hold its tune properly. This can be the result of all sorts of issues. Here are some common reasons to consider that will cause your guitar to slip out of tune more often than it should. Keep these reasons and the following solutions in mind to ensure your guitar is ready to go at a moment’s notice, always sounding its best: Common Causes of Guitars Going Out of Tune: Why Your Guitar Won't Stay in Tune String Stretching with Age Older strings tend to stretch with age, losing the necessary elasticity. Of course, simply changing out strings isn’t always an instant fix either, as new strings do take time to settle, and should be broken in properly. Keep in mind that you will need to slowly break in your strings before they produce the desired sound you are after. Improper String Installation Another common issue that can cause your guitar to slip out of tune is improper string installation. This can include incorrect winding on tuning pegs or slippage due to loose wraps. There are several key factors to remember when properly stringing a guitar in order to prevent slippage and create the right environment for an excellent sound. Tuning Pegs & Hardware Issues Your poor tune might be the result of... --- > Start your journey in guitar luthiery today! Contact us to learn more about our expert guitar-building program and take the first step. - Published: 2025-01-29 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tools-needed-to-build-your-own-guitar/ - Categories: Tech Tip Have you ever wondered what it takes to build your own guitar? Crafting an instrument from scratch is a blend of artistry, precision, and passion. Whether you’re a musician seeking a custom instrument or a beginner exploring the world of luthiery, the process starts with understanding the essential tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basic tools needed to build a guitar and show you how accessible and rewarding this craft can be. Why Build Your Own Guitar Building your own guitar is more than just a woodworking project; it's a journey into creativity, craftsmanship, and personal expression. Whether you're a musician looking for the perfect instrument or a hobbyist wanting to try your hand at luthiery, crafting your guitar offers a range of unique benefits. A Sense of Achievement There's an unmatched sense of pride in playing an instrument that you've built with your own hands. Each note resonates with the effort, patience, and skill you've put into crafting the guitar. It’s not just about owning an instrument; it’s about creating one from scratch, shaping it to life, and knowing every detail intimately. For many, this feeling alone is worth the journey. A Rewarding Hobby or Career Path For many, guitar building begins as a hobby but quickly evolves into something more significant. It can become a lifelong passion or even a career in luthiery. By starting with a single guitar, you open the door to endless possibilities, whether you want to build for yourself, for friends,... --- > Learn how to fix guitar issues like fret buzz, high action, and intonation problems with easy, step-by-step guides for better sound and playability. - Published: 2024-11-06 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/most-common-guitar-problems-and-how-to-fix-them/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip Every guitarist, whether new to the instrument or a seasoned professional, encounters various guitar issues over time. These problems can disrupt practice and performance, reduce the quality of sound, and even lead to more severe damage if not properly addressed. Understanding and troubleshooting common guitar problems puts the power back into your hands. We are going to break down some of these issues and discuss what you can do to solve it. What is Fret Buzz? Fret buzz is an irritating noise that occurs when a string vibrates against a fret. It can make your playing sound sloppy and reduce the overall quality of your performance. Common Causes of Fret Buzz: Low action, where the strings are too close to the fretboard. Uneven frets, which create inconsistent contact points. Incorrect neck relief due to improper truss rod adjustments. How to Correct Guitar Fret Buzz Adjust the Truss Rod: Add more relief to the neck by turning the truss rod counterclockwise. This increases the distance between the strings and frets, reducing buzz. Raise the Action: Use the bridge saddles or adjust the nut to lift the strings slightly higher off the fretboard. Level the Frets: Use a fret file to even out high or uneven frets, or have a professional luthier perform a fret dressing. Strings Rattling Rattling strings are often mixed up with fret buzz but are usually caused by other issues. Loose hardware or strings that are too close to the fret can cause this problem.   High Action... --- > Dive into the artistry of iconic guitars and see how expert luthiery shapes the sounds of rock's greatest legends - Published: 2024-10-24 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/most-iconic-guitars-in-music-today/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Product Spotlight The guitar is more than just an instrument—it's a work of art, a result of expert craftsmanship passed down through generations of luthiers. The finest guitars are not only celebrated for their sound but for the dedication, skill, and innovation that go into their construction. As guitar luthiers, understanding the history and craftsmanship of iconic guitars can deepen your connection to the craft and inspire new designs. The Evolution of Iconic Guitars From early acoustic designs to the modern electric guitars we see today, each era introduced technological advancements and artistic refinements that pushed the boundaries of what a guitar could do. In the early days of guitar-making, craftsmanship was entirely by hand, relying on time-tested techniques for shaping, bracing, and finishing wood. These early instruments were predominantly acoustic, with a focus on sound projection and resonance. As the electric guitar emerged in the mid-20th century, luthiers were tasked with creating instruments that could handle amplification without sacrificing tonal quality. This challenge sparked innovations like solid-body designs, more reliable neck joints, and unique pickup configurations. What Makes a Guitar Iconic? A guitar’s journey from instrument to icon is often rooted in moments. When music becomes bigger than itself. Iconic guitars stand out not only for their association with famous musicians but also because of the artistry behind their construction. The wood choices, finishes, neck design, and hardware all contribute to a guitar’s status. Guitars that continue to be celebrated decades after their introduction are those that were built to last,... --- > Explore the craftsmanship, skills, and career options in guitar making, from building custom instruments to vintage restoration. - Published: 2024-09-13 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/career-options-for-guitar-luthiers/ - Categories: Careers Guitar luthiery is a unique and highly skilled craft that combines artistry, engineering, and a deep passion for music. Luthiers, the artisans behind the creation, repair, and restoration of guitars, play a crucial role in shaping the sound and playability of these beloved instruments. Whether through formal education, apprenticeships, or self-taught practice, becoming a luthier is a rewarding journey for anyone who loves guitars and strives for craftsmanship excellence. In this article, we'll explore the diverse career options available for aspiring guitar luthiers and the skills and challenges that come with this unique profession. What is a Guitar Luthier? A guitar luthier is a skilled craftsperson who builds, repairs, and restores guitars. The term "luthier" originates from the French word "luth," meaning "lute," and refers to artisans who specialize in making stringed instruments. In modern usage, it specifically applies to those working with guitars, although it may also encompass professionals crafting other stringed instruments such as violins or mandolins. At its core, luthiery is a delicate balance of artistry and precision. A guitar luthier must be proficient in various disciplines, including woodworking, acoustics, and finishing techniques. They work with a variety of materials—wood, metal, and sometimes plastics—to create an instrument that not only looks beautiful but also produces exceptional sound.   A guitar luthier’s role doesn’t stop at crafting new instruments. Many specialize in repairing damaged guitars, offering services like neck realignment, fret replacement, bridge repair, or even intricate structural restoration. The Evolution of Guitar Making Guitar making has evolved... --- > Want step by step instructions for re-stringing a guitar? Guitar Craft Academy is dedicated to helping provide resources to musicians. - Published: 2024-07-23 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/beginners-guide-to-re-stringing-a-guitar/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=E3vwA4HHqiM Restringing a guitar is an essential skill for every guitarist, ensuring your instrument sounds its best and stays in optimal playing condition. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will walk you through each step of the process. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you'll have your guitar restrung and ready to play in no time. Items Needed to String a Guitar Before you begin restringing your guitar, it's essential to have the right tools on hand. Having these tools will make the process smoother and more efficient.   String Winder: This tool helps you quickly and easily wind and unwind the strings from the tuning pegs. Wire Cutters: Used to cut the old strings and trim the excess length of the new strings after they've been installed. Tuner: An essential tool for ensuring your new strings are tuned to the correct pitch. Cloth: Used for cleaning the fretboard and body of the guitar while the strings are removed. Loosen Your Strings The first step in restringing your guitar is to loosen the old strings. This process is straightforward but crucial for safely removing the old strings without damaging your guitar. Turn the Tuning Pegs Locate the tuning pegs on the headstock of your guitar. Turn each peg counterclockwise to loosen the strings. Keep turning until the string becomes slack and makes no sound when plucked. Check for Slack Ensure each string is sufficiently loose. The strings... --- > As a beginner guitar player, learning how to tune a guitar is a rite of passage of sorts. Our Guitar Craft Academy team breaks it down step by step. - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/beginners-guide-tuning-a-guitar/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance During your learning journey in playing the guitar, one of the first challenges you will face is tuning your instrument. Even the best musician in the world will sound a little out of whack if their tune isn’t right. This process is universal for every guitar player from the newest to the most experienced. If you are here, congratulations you are right on track of where every guitar player before you has gone. In this blog post, we are going to give you an easy step-by-step walkthrough of how to tune your guitar, what to look out for, and different tools and tricks to make it easier for you.   Understanding the Basics of Guitar Tuning What is Guitar Tuning? Guitar tuning is the process of adjusting the tension of the strings on a guitar to ensure each string produces the correct pitch. The standard tuning for a six-string guitar is E-A-D-G-B-E, which helps create a harmonious and balanced sound when playing. Proper tuning is essential for achieving the best sound quality and for making it easier to play chords and melodies accurately. Why is Tuning Important? Tuning is crucial because it ensures your guitar produces the correct notes, which is essential for playing in harmony with other instruments and for accurate solo performances. An out-of-tune guitar can lead to poor sound quality, making even well-played music sound unpleasant. Regular tuning also helps maintain the instrument's overall condition and extends the lifespan of the strings. Best Tools For Tuning a... --- > A guitar luthier works hands-on building, maintaining, and repairing guitars- Guitar Craft Academy lays out the pathway to becoming a pro. - Published: 2024-05-22 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-become-a-guitar-luthier/ - Categories: Careers The craft of building musical instruments combines precise engineering with artistic expression, attracting those with a passion for both music and meticulous handwork. Becoming a luthier involves a blend of technical skills, creative design, and a deep understanding of musical acoustics. If you've ever dreamed of crafting instruments that could be played on stages around the world, this guide will walk you through the educational paths and hands-on experiences needed to get started on this rewarding career. What is a Guitar Luthier? A guitar luthier is a skilled craftsman who specializes in the creation, repair, and maintenance of guitars. This artisan combines a deep understanding of music and woodcraft to sculpt instruments that are both visually striking and sonically excellent. Luthiers must possess a range of skills from woodworking to acoustic engineering, ensuring each custom piece or repair enhances the guitar’s performance and player’s experience. Educational Pathways Choosing the right educational pathway to become a guitar luthier involves weighing the benefits and challenges of three distinct options: self-taught learning, formal education programs, and apprenticeships. Self-taught Learning This is the most flexible and often the least expensive route, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and according to their specific interests. This approach is highly dependent on a learner's discipline and ability to source quality educational materials and tools, which can vary widely in effectiveness and applicability. It's ideal for those with a strong foundation in woodworking or music who may already possess some of the necessary skills. Formal Programs... --- > Looking to learn about becoming a guitar repair apprentice? Guitar Craft Academy is the premier luthier training center in the U.S. - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/keys-to-a-successful-guitar-repair-apprenticeship/ - Categories: Careers, Guitar Setup and Maintenance Embarking on a guitar repair apprenticeship is a pivotal step toward learning the artistry and technical expertise required in the music industry. With the rise of guitar repair as a sought-after skill, aspiring technicians are keen to delve into this meticulous craft, eager to understand the intricacies of instrument repair and maintenance. This journey begins with a comprehensive exploration of the various career paths within instrument repair, highlighting the vast opportunities and advancement potential in the field. Success stories from seasoned professionals further illuminate the rewarding nature of a career dedicated to preserving the soulful sounds of guitars. The role of mentorship cannot be overstated in the area of guitar luthiery, where experienced mentors impart invaluable wisdom and practical skills to their apprentices. As apprentices navigate their path, they must learn essential maintenance skills, address common challenges, and establish robust routines for different guitar types. Initiating a guitar repair apprenticeship involves a strategic approach, setting clear goals, and actively seeking opportunities to apply newfound knowledge in real-world settings. How to Start a Guitar Repair Apprenticeship Starting a guitar repair apprenticeship is an exciting venture that opens doors to a world where music meets craftsmanship. To begin on this journey, the first step is to research and identify workshops or luthiers offering apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring they align with your interests and goals in guitar repair. Networking with professionals in the field through industry events, online forums, or local music communities can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to apprenticeship offers. It's... --- > Looking for a step by step explanation of how to build a guitar? Guitar Craft Academy experts walk you through the process. - Published: 2024-02-20 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-build-a-guitar-from-scratch/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Not everyone is built to build. Some people prefer to live life as assembled out of the box. But if you’re reading this, you probably aren’t like most people. For DIY enthusiasts, music lovers, and the rest we put together this step-by-step guide with considerations for making your very own guitar from scratch. Materials, tools, processes, and more the Guitar Craft Academy team in Nashville has got you covered. Choosing a Type of Guitar to Build Deciding on the type of guitar to build presents a unique challenge, as it requires balancing personal preferences with the complexities of construction. Whether it's the rich, warm tones of an acoustic, the electrifying versatility of an electric, or the classical elegance of a nylon-string, each choice sets the stage for a deeply personal and technical journey into guitar building. Acoustic vs Electric vs Classical Choosing between electric, acoustic, and classical guitars is a decision that hinges on several factors, including musical preferences, playing style, and desired sound characteristics. Electric guitars offer a wide range of tones and effects, making them ideal for various music genres and experimental styles. Acoustic guitars, on the other hand, produce a warm and natural sound without the need for amplification, making them perfect for intimate performances or unplugged settings. Classical guitars, with their nylon strings and distinctive timbre, are favored by those drawn to traditional styles like classical, flamenco, or fingerstyle playing. Each type presents its own set of challenges and rewards, making the decision an exciting first... --- > Dive into guitar craftsmanship: essential tools, wood selection, building techniques, and tips from Nashville's finest luthiery program, GCA. - Published: 2024-01-17 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/luthier-tools-learning-the-trade-of-guitar-craft/ - Categories: Careers, Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip Learning the art of building, repairing, and maintaining guitars is not for everyone. Like the guitars we make, guitar luthiers are cut from a different cloth from the rest of the world. If you are someone who loves to work with their hands, has a deep appreciation for the art and science of craftsmanship, and is deeply passionate about guitars then you have met your people. Our Guitar Craft Academy team wanted to create this guide to the different tools a guitar craft professional uses to give you a brief look at what it is like to turn parts into masterful guitars. What is a Guitar Luthier? A guitar luthier is a skilled craftsman specialized in the creation, repair, and maintenance of guitars. They combine artistry and technical expertise to build guitars from scratch, often customizing them to meet specific aesthetic or sound requirements. Luthiers also play a crucial role in restoring vintage guitars and adjusting instruments to ensure optimal sound quality and playability. With a deep understanding of acoustics and materials, a guitar luthier blends traditional techniques with modern innovations to create both functional and beautiful instruments. The Basics of Guitar Luthiery The basics of guitar luthiery involve a blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of musical acoustics. It starts with the design process, where luthiers choose specific types of wood and materials based on the desired sound and aesthetic of the guitar. Fundamental skills include shaping, joining, and finishing wood, as well as installing hardware and... --- > Discover hands-on guitar luthiery at Guitar Craft Academy. Small classes, private lessons, and real world job experience is available to you. - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/what-students-can-expect-at-a-guitar-luthier-school/ - Categories: Careers If you’re here then that probably means you like doing things a little bit differently- like us. At Guitar Craft Academy, we are dedicated to inspiring excellence in the art of guitar building and design. We provide hands-on training from the best instructors in a top-notch environment where we equip you with the skills, tools, and knowledge to thrive in crafting guitars. We wanted to share what to expect as a student and how we prepare students with specific knowledge that can help them with practical career training. If you have an interest in working in the music industry, follow along as we prepare students for careers in guitar maintenance and repair, custom guitar making, and as a guitar/bass tech for touring artists and bands. Skills You’ll Learn Embark on a transformative journey at Guitar Craft Academy, where our immersive training ensures you maximize your skills with the best guitar luthier training programs, acquiring skills that define craftsmanship. In the realm of guitar making, delve into the precision of guitar pickups & fretwork, sculpting instruments with tonal richness that sets your creations apart. Unleash your creativity with hands-on experience in wiring modifications, customizing the sound of your guitars to perfection. From impeccable repairs & maintenance to exploring the intricacies of advanced electronics, our comprehensive curriculum equips you with the expertise to shape the future of guitar craftsmanship. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, our commitment to providing the best practices for guitar electronics learning ensures you thrive in... --- > Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville explores the topic of mentorship and its value to aspiring musicians in their journey. - Published: 2023-11-17 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/value-of-mentorship-and-music-schools-for-musician/ - Categories: Careers As passionate musicians ourselves at Guitar Craft Academy, we understand the profound impact of having a musical mentor. In this article, we'll delve into the transformative role of mentors in an aspiring musician's life. We'll not only explore what music mentors do, but we'll also discuss the qualities to seek in a mentor, the incredible benefits they bring, and practical tips on how to maximize mentorship opportunities. Moreover, we're excited to share how Guitar Craft Academy stands out as a place where mentorship meets excellence with experienced industry graduates serving as mentors and instructors. School for aspiring musicians is more valuable than ever. We will uncover the hidden gems of mentorship in the world of music, showing you why Guitar Craft Academy is your perfect partner on this incredible journey. What Does a Music Mentor Do? As defined by the dictionary, a mentor is a trusted counselor or guide. But for a musician, finding a mentor is so much more. A music mentor serves this multifaceted role where they encourage you to be your best, give yourself grace when your best isn’t enough, give you a supportive outlet for your disappointments, offer wisdom and advice that cannot be found anywhere else while being your biggest motivator, and offering a wealth of knowledge and expertise to nurture their talents. At Guitar Craft Academy, our mentors wear many hats, serving as educators, motivators, and role models. They provide personalized guidance, helping students set and achieve their musical goals. These dedicated mentors offer... --- > Nashville is the unofficial guitar capital of the U.S., our team at GCA explores the history and the value to prospective guitar luthiers. - Published: 2023-11-17 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/why-nashville-is-the-epicenter-for-guitar-luthiers/ - Categories: Careers The History and Culture of Guitar Making in Nashville Nashville stands as a testament to the universal language of music. From the soulful echoes of country tunes to the rhythmic beats of rock 'n' roll, the city's musical heritage is a kaleidoscope of genres. This dynamic backdrop sets the stage for an unparalleled exploration into the artistry of guitar making. The Evolution of Guitar Luthiery in Nashville As Nashville's music scene evolved, so did the craft of guitar making. From humble beginnings to the intricate designs of today, the journey of luthiery in this city reflects a commitment to excellence. It's a journey that invites DIY enthusiasts to embark on a hands-on exploration of the evolution of their beloved instruments. The Influence of Nashville's Music Scene on Guitar Making The spirit of Nashville's music scene breathes life into every guitar crafted within its borders. The city's diverse musical influences infuse instruments with character and soul. For DIY enthusiasts, immersing themselves in this vibrant environment means not just crafting a guitar but becoming part of a tradition that celebrates the joy and artistry of the process. The Craft of Nashville’s Luthiers  Guitar making in Nashville is an art form that unfolds with meticulous craftsmanship, unique techniques, and a touch of musical magic. Craftsmanship Involved in Guitar Making Crafting a guitar is a symphony of precision and passion. Nashville’s luthiers dedicate themselves to a meticulous process, from selecting the finest wood to shaping each curve with a keen eye for detail. The... --- > Truss Rod Adjustment Made Easy: Guitar Craft Academy shares a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect neck relief for your guitar. - Published: 2023-08-11 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/proper-truss-rod-usage-for-correcting-your-guitar/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip As a musician, there is nearly a limitless amount of tools, resources, guides, accessories, and products available to you to help enhance your skill set. And while so many options can feel a bit overwhelming, being able to drill down and identify the few essential tools for your toolbelt is one of the most invaluable resources you can obtain in your musical journey. Playing the guitar is not just playing the right notes at the right time, there is a technical element of setting up the right way. In order to get your guitar sounding right, proper usage of a tool called the truss rod can be the game changer you need to hone your sound. What is a Truss Rod? A truss rod is a metal rod that runs inside the neck of a guitar. Its purpose is to counteract the tension created by the strings, helping to maintain the neck's stability and preventing issues like bowing or warping. By adjusting the truss rod, you can control the curvature of the neck, ensuring your guitar plays smoothly and sounds in tune. How to Properly Use a Truss Rod to Correct Your Guitar Correcting your guitar's playability with a truss rod is a careful step-by-step process. Begin by loosening the strings slightly to lessen the tension on the neck. With the truss rod adjustment nut, make gentle and small turns to either tighten or loosen the rod, depending on your needs. Take your time, making gradual adjustments, and remember that... --- > Explore a wide range of guitar accessories at Guitar Craft Academy to personalize your instrument, protect it, and unlock new creative possibilities. - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-accessories/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Guitar accessories are not mere add-ons; they are the keys to unlock your virtuoso potential. Just like a master craftsman wielding their tools, guitarists utilize accessories to shape their sound and express their unique musical voice. Each of these tools serves a specific purpose, whether it is to enhance your playing experience, curate a sound, or even adding convenience to carrying and protecting your instrument, having the right arsenal of accessories is a must. Essential Guitar Accessories for Beginners: Lay the Foundation for Success Every guitarist's journey begins with the essentials. At Guitar Craft Academy, we believe in equipping each aspiring player with must-have accessories, such as picks, straps, tuners, and cases. These foundational tools provide a solid base for learning, protecting your instrument, and ensuring optimal playability. Just as no two guitar players are alike, neither are their optimal accessories. We help musicians find the right parts for their unique sounds.   Enhancing Sound and Performance with Guitar Effects Pedals: Sculpt Your Signature Sound Step into the realm of sonic exploration with guitar effects pedals. These magical devices, like the painter's brush on a vibrant canvas, allow you to sculpt your unique sound, adding depth, texture, and character to your playing. Finding the right pedal for your setup and sound is like finding the right guitar for you, they allow you to fully unleash your creativity and sound and express yourself in a new capacity.   Protecting and Transporting Your Guitar with Cases and Gig Bags: Shield Your Precious... --- > A comprehensive look at the anatomy and parts of a guitar, what you need to know with explanation of each piece and its function. - Published: 2023-06-12 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/parts-of-the-guitar/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance A guitar is a beautiful and versatile musical instrument, year after year it captures countless musicians and music lovers. To truly appreciate and master this instrument, it's important to understand its different parts and how they work together. After breaking down the various parts, pieces, and peculiarities you will have a deeper understanding of the anatomy of a guitar to help you master your instrument and enhance your appreciation for the art and science of guitar music. Guitar Parts The Headstock Situated at the end of the neck, the headstock plays a vital role in maintaining the tension and tuning of the strings. It holds the tuning pegs, which are used to adjust the tension of the strings and achieve the desired pitch. If you are having an issue with an out of tune guitar, this is the section you will be working in to restore the proper pitch. The headstock's design can vary, and it often showcases the brand logo or name of the guitar. The Neck The neck is the long, slender part of the guitar that connects the headstock and the body. It is typically crafted from wood and varies in length, width, and shape. The neck houses the fretboard, where the player presses the strings to produce different notes. Understanding the neck's construction and characteristics is crucial for a comfortable playing experience. The Tuning Pegs Tuning pegs, also known as machine heads, are located on the headstock. These small, cylindrical components allow you to adjust the... --- > Explore the invention, evolution, and global impact of the electric guitar, a revolutionary instrument that shaped music history. - Published: 2023-05-19 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/the-electric-guitar-history-and-evolution/ - Categories: Tech Tip The electric guitar holds a significant place in the world of music, captivating audiences with its electrifying sound. This article delves into the history, invention, and evolution of the electric guitar, showcasing its profound impact on music and culture. Invention of the Electric Guitar Adolph Rickenbacker and George Beauchamp are credited with inventing the electric guitar, paving the way for its modern and commercially viable form. Their collaborative efforts and improvements on earlier designs laid the foundation for this iconic instrument. A Brief History of the Electric Guitar The need for electric guitars arose alongside the growing popularity of music bands and larger concert venues. Recognizing this demand, George Beauchamp played a pivotal role in creating the first complete electric guitar. Influenced by Hawaiian music and previous attempts to amplify guitar sound, the development of electric guitars gained momentum. Evolution of the Electric Guitar In its early days, the groundbreaking Rickenbacker Frying Pan Guitar revolutionized the instrument's design. Building upon this innovation, the Rickenbacker Electro String further enhanced the electric guitar's significance in music history. Overcoming Challenges To address acoustic guitar feedback issues, the Les Paul "Log" introduced innovative modifications, including the use of maple wood. Additionally, the Bigsby-Travis Guitar made a mark with its iconic "Bigsby Vibrato" design, boosting the instrument's versatility and appeal. Pioneers of the Solid-Body Electric Guitar The Fender Broadcaster, Gibson Les Paul Guitar, and Fender Stratocaster emerged as trailblazers in the realm of solid-body electric guitars. These instruments revolutionized the industry with their innovative designs,... --- > Guitar Craft Academy explores how technology has changed the luthiery landscape- from 3D printing, DSP effects, and more. - Published: 2023-04-27 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-technology-is-changing-the-guitar-industry/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip Technology has played an increasingly significant role in every industry over the years, and the guitar industry is no exception. From advancements in manufacturing to digital signal processing (DSP) effects, and mobile apps for guitarists, technology is transforming the way we play and enjoy the guitar. In this blog post, we'll explore how technology is changing the guitar industry and shaping its future. Advancements in Guitar Manufacturing Guitar manufacturing has come a long way since the early days of handcrafted instruments. Today, computer numerical control (CNC) machines have revolutionized guitar manufacturing by allowing for precise and repeatable production of guitar parts. CNC machines can cut and carve guitar parts with great precision, making the guitar building process more efficient and cost-effective. Another exciting development in guitar manufacturing is 3D printing. Guitar makers can now print guitar parts such as knobs, pickups, and even entire guitar bodies using 3D printers. 3D printing technology offers guitar makers the ability to create custom guitar parts with great ease and speed. Computer-aided design (CAD) software is another technological advancement that has changed guitar building. Guitar makers can now create highly detailed 3D models of their guitar designs before beginning the building process. This allows guitar makers to perfect their designs and make any necessary changes before beginning the manufacturing process. Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Effects: Digital signal processing (DSP) effects have transformed the way guitarists create and use effects pedals. Modeling amplifiers are one example of DSP effects. Modeling amps use digital technology to... --- > Guitar Craft Academy offers this comprehensive overview about the different types of luthier tools, where to get them, and how to start. - Published: 2023-03-22 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/the-ultimate-guide-to-luthier-tools-what-they-are-and-how-they-work-guitar-craft-academy-nashville/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance As a budding guitar luthier, understanding the tools of the trade is crucial. Whether you're building, repairing, or maintaining guitars, you need a range of tools to get the job done. In this guide, we'll explore luthier tools, their importance, and where to find them. What are Guitar Luthier Tools? Guitar luthier tools are a specialized set of tools used for building and repairing guitars. These tools range from basic hand tools, like screwdrivers and pliers, to advanced tools, such as fret saws and nut files. Luthier tools are essential for shaping and manipulating wood and metal to create the desired sound and aesthetic. Basic Luthier Tools Basic luthier tools include a ruler, saw, sandpaper, and a set of screwdrivers. These tools are used for measuring, cutting, sanding, and tightening various guitar parts. They are also used for basic repairs, such as fixing loose screws or adjusting the truss rod. Advanced Luthier Tools Advanced luthier tools include a fret saw, nut file, and fretting hammer. These tools are used for more complex repairs and modifications, like replacing a fret or adjusting the nut slots. They require more skill and precision to use effectively, but can produce excellent results when used correctly. Where to Purchase Guitar Building Tools Several options are available for finding luthier tools. You can purchase them online from specialty retailers or visit your local guitar shop to see what they have in stock. Attending guitar shows and conventions can also show you the latest tools and equipment... --- > Follow along as Guitar Craft Academy explores the steps it takes in becoming a guitar luthier, gaining valuable hands-on experience. - Published: 2023-02-22 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/essential-steps-for-crafting-and-repairing-stringed-instruments/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Music has the power to move us, evoke emotions, and transport us to another world. Behind every beautiful sound is an instrument, crafted by skilled hands and honed with precision. The luthier is the craftsman responsible for creating, repairing, and maintaining stringed instruments such as guitars, violins, and cellos. The art of luthiery combines woodworking skills, musical knowledge, and attention to detail to produce instruments with excellent tone, resonance, and playability. In this article, we will explore the steps required to become a guitar luthier, from acquiring basic woodworking skills to setting up a workshop, and everything in between. Whether you're a musician looking to build your own instrument or aspiring to make a career as a guitar luthier, this guide will provide you with the essential information to get started. Understanding the Role of a Guitar Luthier The first step in becoming a guitar luthier is to understand what the role entails. Guitar luthiers are responsible for crafting, repairing, and maintaining stringed instruments, such as guitars, violins, and cellos. They use a combination of woodworking skills, musical knowledge, and precision to create instruments with excellent tone, resonance, and playability. Guitar luthiers often work with musicians, instrument collectors, and music stores, and play an essential role in the music industry.   Acquiring Basic Woodworking Skills Through enrollment at Guitar Craft Academy, you will develop the necessary woodworking skills to become a great guitar luthier. These skills include using hand and power tools, sawing, sanding, planing, and measuring. It's essential to... --- > Learn how to find a skilled and professional guitar luthier. Let Guitar Craft Academy be your guide to guitar repair and maintenance. - Published: 2023-01-24 - Modified: 2023-09-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-find-a-good-guitar-luthier/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance It’s not too difficult to find a guitar that’s in bad shape out there – probably in more than a few garages or at least garage sales. Often, they’re battered, broken, and maybe weren’t even made that well in the first place. But if you’re looking for a new guitar that’s in good shape or have an older one that needs to be fixed, what do you do? What To Look For In A Guitar Luthier Consider a guitar luthier, who is someone who has received extensive training in repairing and building guitars and other stringed instruments. Some luthiers specialize in acoustic guitars, some in electric guitars. But this title generally declares them to be a skilled guitar repair specialist and a master guitar maker, which is recommended if you’re looking for quality repairs. Researching Luthiers If you’ve never looked for a professional guitar luthier, it helps to know something about the profession and the training they’ve received. It’s also suggested that you get to know luthiers, especially any in your area, who you potentially can work with for years. This means feeling comfortable with their training, plus their proposed solution, their price, and their timeline. For instance, some may have acquired their knowledge traditionally by spending years with a single luthier. Perhaps they have luthiers in their family and have learned a thing or two just by working on them without formal training. If you’re interested in someone with more formal training, there are a variety of degree programs... --- > Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville offers guitar building classes, designed for anyone to step in guitar luthiery and repair. - Published: 2022-12-19 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-winter-programs/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase It's great to hear that you're interested in pursuing your dream of learning to build the guitar or becoming a luthier. Attending an open house like the one on January 28th, 2023 can also be a great way to learn more about the school and its offerings. Guitar Craft Academy Classes In addition to attending classes at a school like Guitar Craft Academy, there are also many other ways to learn how to build the guitar. You can take private lessons with a professional instructor, join a group class or community music program, or even teach yourself with the help of online resources and instructional materials. No matter which approach you choose, the key is to be consistent and practice regularly in order to develop your skills and improve your building. Benefits of Playing Guitar Remember that learning to play the guitar can have many benefits, including improving cognitive abilities, boosting mental health, and fostering social connections. By taking the time to learn and practice, you can enjoy these benefits and fulfill your dream of becoming a skilled guitar builder. In addition to the cognitive benefits, musical instruments can also have a positive effect on your mental health. Playing music has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, and can even improve symptoms of depression. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem, which can be especially beneficial for those who are struggling with mental health issues. Guitar Craft Academy Open House Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville... --- > Curious about the education requirements to become a luthier? Read from Guitar Craft Academy, located in Nashville! - Published: 2022-11-07 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/what-are-the-luthier-education-requirements/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance It’s easy to say that anyone can become a luthier, but this isn’t entirely true. Not everyone has the time, interest, or inclination to pursue this field as a career or even as a hobby. A passion for creating musical instruments and maybe an appreciation of the history of stringed instruments can both help, as can having a lot of patience and a lot of self-discipline: you’ll need both to pursue luthier education well. Guitar Luthier Skills At its basic level, being a luthier requires combining the art of music with the craft of working with wood and metal to build things with your hands. However, a modern luthier also may benefit from knowledge of electricity and electronics, which can be used to craft electric guitars and amplify sound. Learning a thing or two about 3D printers also couldn’t hurt, as this developing technology may have some potential for creating components for instruments faster and more affordably than in the past. Luckily, we’re well past the days when someone was supposed to partner with an experienced luthier and spend an undetermined amount of time working with them in an apprentice capacity. There wasn’t necessarily any formal curriculum; it was more hands-on or even observing. Today, many luthiers are still willing to share their knowledge to make sure it is preserved for future generations, but there are also more formal training programs from accredited schools which people can sign up for that do have a standard set of courses. For people... --- > Learn from the pros- become a guitar luthier at Guitar Craft Academy. Our comprehensive courses are geared towards career preparation. - Published: 2022-10-07 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/become-a-luthier/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase Playing the guitar or violin is great, and playing a guitar or violin you know has been built lovingly by a skilled luthier is especially impressive. But how cool would it be if you could make your own stringed instruments, take pride in your own creations or sell these masterpieces for a high price? Becoming a luthier isn’t the easiest path, but doing anything impressive isn’t supposed to be. But there are opportunities to learn the art and the skill of creating wonderful instruments. The training process to become a luthier can be complex and involves working with your hands, learning from experienced luthiers, plus focusing efforts on mastering the fundamentals of music, history, woodworking, even the physics of sound. The best way how to become a luthier There are different schools of thought in the best ways to learn these skills. Some suggest directly working alongside a luthier for years. The instructor/mentor will decide how and when to share certain techniques, any payment structure, the appropriate balance of observing and letting the student try their hands, and when the apprentice has gained enough knowledge. While this arrangement can be adequate for some, another preferred method is to enroll in a recognized luthier school. Here, students can still learn from experienced luthiers, but they can get different perspectives and techniques from faculty members. They also can follow a standard curriculum to make sure everyone learns the same skills and can demonstrate certain proficiencies – especially if they want to go... --- > Need a solution for storing your guitars? We outlined the best way to store your guitar based on how many and what kind of case. - Published: 2022-08-05 - Modified: 2024-02-14 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-store-your-guitar-cases/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Guitar cases, especially those large, hard cases, can take up a significant amount of space. However, they are necessary to protect your precious guitar collection. In fact, if your collection grows past one or two guitars, storing them and their cases is something you will have to address. Read on for some helpful information on how to store your guitar case or cases. Things to Consider For Guitar Case Storage When you are considering what to do about your guitar case storage when you are not playing your instruments, you need to think of the following factors: How many guitars do you have? Obviously, the more you have to store, the more space you will need to have or at least you will need to create a rotational storage system of sorts to ensure that your guitars are all protected. What is the weather or climate? It’s not a good idea to store a guitar case, even an empty one if a place where temperature and humidity swing drastically. Therefore, even if it’s empty, it’s not good for a guitar case to be stored in an unconditioned basement or garage. The space you have available is important when contemplating how to store your guitars and their cases. If you have a bonus room for this, great. If not, you will have to think of some alternatives. Budget restraints will also alter what you can do in terms of guitar case storage. Value of guitars. Obviously, the more valuable your guitars... --- > Thinking of using a guitar amp for your bass? Discover why it’s risky, how bass and guitar amps differ, and ways to minimize potential speaker damage. - Published: 2022-07-08 - Modified: 2025-02-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/can-you-play-a-bass-on-a-guitar-amp/ - Categories: Playing Tip When answering the question of whether you can use a guitar amp to play a bass guitar, the basic answer is yes. However, that isn’t to say it's advisable as it most certainly is not ideal. In general, standard guitar amps are not designed for the low frequencies of a bass guitar. This means that at best you might compromise the overall sound of your instrument, and at worst you can also damage the amp itself. Therefore, if you want to play a bass through a guitar amp, you should educate yourself on the matter beforehand and maybe even avoid it altogether. Bass Amps vs. Guitar Amps: What’s the Difference? A regular guitar amp is an amplifier designed—as you might imagine—to amplify the voice or resonance of higher frequencies. Bass amps are instead designed to be less responsive to highs and are designed to play and highlight the mids and lows. Generally, the speakers in bass amps are larger, giving the speaker the ability to push more air through, which is essential for sweet-sounding bass. The raspy tones of the bass guitar are simply not translated as well through smaller speakers like those found in standard guitar amps. Dangers of Playing Bass with a Guitar Amp If you do still want to try to play your bass through a guitar amp, it’s important to understand the dangers that could come into play. For example, the different frequencies can cause damage to speakers. It’s also important to note that there are... --- > Here is everything you need to know about when to change guitar strings, including general string care and maintenance of the instrument. - Published: 2022-06-08 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-often-should-you-change-guitar-strings/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance If you love playing the guitar or are learning how to play guitar, it's necessary to change guitar strings for various reasons. Knowing when to change guitar strings will keep the instrument sounding as good as new. This article will discuss everything you need to know about changing guitar strings, including general care and maintenance of the instrument. When to change guitar strings Most music experts and guitarists agree that it is good practice to change guitar strings after 3 months or 100 hours of playing or when the guitar begins to sound weird. People change guitar strings for various reasons, as discussed below. Reasons to replace your guitar strings Broken guitar strings: Of course, when your guitar strings are broken, they won't sound the same when you play the instrument. These strings break for many reasons; the most common include: Blurred tuning points Use of wrong strings Rough fret edges Sharp bridges Worn or dirty nut The guitar strings feel gross, dirty, or sticky: You might need to change your guitar strings if they feel gross, dirty, or sticky. For the best results, wash your hands before playing the guitar, and then ensure that the instrument is properly stored after playing it. Such basic practices will preserve the guitar strings and save you the unnecessary stress of replacing the strings earlier than usual. The guitar won't stay in tune: It's frustrating to play a guitar that won't stay in tune. This doesn't necessarily mean that you're a terrible guitar... --- > If you have a hairline crack in your guitar neck, don't panic! Here's a look at everything you need to do to fix a cracked guitar neck. - Published: 2022-05-03 - Modified: 2024-09-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-fix-a-hairline-crack-in-a-guitar-neck/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance, Tech Tip If you have a hairline crack in your guitar neck, don't panic! This is a relatively easy repair that can be done at home with some simple tools and materials. Today, we're going to take a look at everything you need to do to fix a cracked guitar neck. Warning If you have an expensive or collectible guitar, don't try to repair the hairline crack in the guitar neck on your own. Guitars range significantly in value—an antique guitar should never be repaired at home. A professional can repair your guitar in a fashion that doesn't dramatically reduce its value. Required Supplies First, you'll need to gather the following supplies: A small piece of fine-grit sandpaper A wood glue that is recommended by your guitar manufacturer Clamping tools, such as a C-clamp or two or three flat wooden braces An iron and some wax paper (optional) Steps to Fixing a Broken Guitar Neck 1) Clean and Prepare the Surface Begin by cleaning the crack with a clean rag to make sure that it is free of any dirt or debris. Then, run the sandpaper along the crack to roughen up the surface and help the glue adhere. 2) Apply Wood Glue to the Crack Next, apply a small amount of wood glue to the crack, using just enough to fill it in. You don't want to use too much glue, as this can cause the repair to be bulky and difficult to sand down later. You also don't want to... --- > Guitar craft experts explain how to choose the right guitar pickups based on your goals and the sound you are trying to curate. - Published: 2022-04-11 - Modified: 2023-12-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/how-to-choose-guitar-pickups/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Pickups are essentially magnets wrapped in a coil of wire. The strength of the magnets and the number of turns in the coil determines how hot the pickups are. The hotter the pickups, the more they amplify the string's vibrations. Each type of pickup has its own sound, so choosing the right one is essential to getting good tones out of your guitar. Here is a short guide on how to choose guitar pickups. What Do Guitar Pickups Do for Your Sound? Do you want a brighter sound? A warmer, fuller sound? Something in between? Pickups come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so it's important to know what sort of sound you're going for before you start shopping. There's a reason why most music shops let you test the pickups before you purchase one. Listen to different types of guitar music to isolate the sounds that you love. It may surprise you. Reasons to Change Your Guitar's Pickup Your guitar's pickups are responsible for its sound, so if you're not happy with the way your guitar sounds, changing the pickups is a good place to start. Pickups can wear out over time, so if your guitar suddenly sounds different, it may be time for new pickups. Or, you may just want to try a different type of pickup for a different sound. Buying an Active or Passive Pickup Active pickups require a battery to function, while passive pickups do not. Active pickups tend to have more output and... --- > Looking for the best way to store your guitar? Consider the humidity and follow along as GCA explains the warning signs to look for. - Published: 2022-03-03 - Modified: 2024-09-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/proper-humidity-for-guitar-storage/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance Guitars will naturally acclimate to the environment in which they are stored. This means that they are optimally maintained with just the right of humidity, not too much or too little as both could cause issues. Read on to find out the right humidity for guitar storage: What is the Ideal Humidity for Guitars? The proper humidity for guitars is between 40 and 55% for acoustic guitars. This is relative humidity. For electric guitars, this number is slightly different and should be anywhere from 40 to 60% relative humidity. What is the Ideal Temperature for Guitars? In addition to humidity, it’s important to maintain a certain temperature for optimal storage. The best temperature for guitar storage is between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the storage room is either hotter or colder than this on the regular, it might be a good idea to store your guitar elsewhere. Signs of Too Much Humidity Too much humidity is damaging for a guitar. Excess moisture can cause a guitar to swell, which will eventually cause glue joints to fail, the neck to bend, or even ruin the finish of the guitar. A guitar dehumidifier might be necessary to maintain your guitar if your humidity levels are high. Look for these signs of too much humidity: Bulging frets Glue failure Warped neck Finish coming up or bubbling Dull sound from guitar Signs of Too Little Humidity Low humidity can be just as damaging for guitar storage. For example, the guitar wood can dry... --- > Guitar Craft Academy is committed to help educate people on guitars, guitar crafts and repairs- follow along for acoustic maintenance tips. - Published: 2021-01-04 - Modified: 2024-05-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/acoustic-guitar-maintenance-overview-with-darren-gallman/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: acoustic guitar, Gallagher Guitar, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar maintenance, guitar setup, guitar tips, guitars, luthiery, Nashville, Nashville luthier https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=2kTPmqb-5zo Learn about potential trouble spots to watch out for on acoustic guitars from Darren Gallman, our newest faculty member and the chief luthier at Gallagher Guitar Builders. Keep an eye out for future videos with Darren where he’ll teach some basic setup and maintenance tips for acoustics. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Visit our website or call us (800)-255-7529. --- > Guitar Craft Academy hosts President and CEO of Gibson Guitars, JC Curleigh. Watch as he talks about the next generation of luthiers. - Published: 2020-12-22 - Modified: 2024-03-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/highlights-from-gibson-ceo-j-c-curleighs-visit/ - Categories: Company News - Tags: gibson, gibson guitars, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, guitars, Nashville https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=fXz28x7Q7q0 J. C. Curleigh, President and CEO of Gibson Guitar A few weeks ago, J. C. Curleigh, president and CEO of Gibson Guitar, stopped by the school to speak to our students about the company's momentum and how the next generation of luthiers has the potential to revolutionize the industry. Here are some of the highlights! What is the Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy? 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. Upcoming Events & Programs We are dedicated to inspiring excellence in the guitar and music industry. Here is a list of classes we offer: Summer Workshops Guitar craft & Luthier School Guitar Acoustic Design Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Visit our website at or call us (800)-255-7529. --- > Curious how to start a guitar business? Meet one of our graduates, Dave Sabella, who now runs his own growing boutique guitar company, Jane Fox Guitars. - Published: 2020-11-11 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-dave-sabella/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: custom guitars, graduate, graduate profile, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, luthier, luthier school, luthiery, Nashville, Nashville luthier https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=hTJ_1nJaCZI Meet one of our recent graduates, Dave Sabella, who now runs his own growing boutique guitar company, Jane Fox Guitars. Here's more about him and his time at our school. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Visit our website or call us (800)-255-7529. --- > Guitar Craft Academy explores the history, facts, and iconic moments with the Fender Telecaster guitar, follow along to see the impact. - Published: 2020-10-23 - Modified: 2023-10-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-facts-fender-telecaster/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: electric guitar, Fender, fender tele, fender telecaster, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, iconic guitars, Nashville, solid-body guitar, tele, telecaster https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Al1VFjEkFaE&t=12s The Telecaster is a classic electric guitar introduced in 1950 by Fender, initially known as the Broadcaster. However, after a trademark dispute with Gretsch, a competing manufacturer, the guitar was renamed as the Telecaster in 1951. The name was inspired by America's hottest new pastime of the era - the television. Notable Telecaster Guitarists One of the most distinctive features of the Telecaster is its twangy sound, which has made it a widely used guitar in country music. Notable Telecaster players include Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Brad Paisley, Muddy Waters, Keith Richards, John 5, Steve Cropper, Eric Clapton, and Elvis Presley sideman James Burton. Jimmy Page famously used a Telecaster for his solo on "Stairway to Heaven. " Unique Guitar Designs The Telecaster also features several unique design elements. The guitar's "ashtray" bridge cover was inspired by Hawaiian steel guitars, while the tuners are all located on one side of the headstock, an idea borrowed from 19th-century Istrian folk guitars and Viennese Staufer guitars. The body of the Telecaster is typically made of ash or alder, with a combined neck and fingerboard carved from a single piece of maple. The guitar's neck is bolted onto the body, rather than being glued in, which was an innovative design at the time and has since been used on many other Fender models. Telecaster's Impact on Electric Guitars Overall, the Telecaster has had a significant impact on the history of electric guitars and continues to be a beloved instrument... --- > Learn the toothpick guitar trick from David Johnson. Watch as he explains how to fix a worn strap - with a toothpick! - Published: 2020-04-02 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/the-toothpick-trick/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: guitar, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar setup, guitar setup process https://youtu. be/ZufC3-aXs6M Quick guitar maintenance tip: If your guitar's strap button screw becomes loose because the screw hole is worn, you can cut a small piece of round toothpick, install it in the screw hole and then re-install the strap button. It's a simple fix and works really well. To learn how to do it, check out the video. What is the Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy? 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. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the programs offered by Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, please visit http://www. tn. gov/thec/topic/authorized-institutions-data. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Visit our website at https://nashville. mi. edu/ --- > Experts in guitar craft explains everything you need to know about adjusting the pickup height on your guitar in this video. - Published: 2020-03-31 - Modified: 2023-12-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-pickup-height/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: adjusting pickup, adjusting pickup height, guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville https://youtu. be/CKimEbgkjc8 The last step of any guitar setup applies only to electric guitars with adjustable pickups. That is to adjust the pickup heights so the volumes will be consistent. Where to Move the Pickups on a Guitar This is attained by moving the pickups either closer to or away from the strings, and therefore either more within or outside of the magnetic field of the pickup itself.  The closer the string vibration is to the magnetic field of the pickup, the louder it will be, and vice versa. Almost all pickup manufacturers have specs that note the appropriate pickup heights. But as a rule of thumb, you will want the treble side a little closer to the strings than the bass side, as the string vibrations of the bass strings will have more side-to-side travel when played. How to Measure Guitar Pickup Height To measure pickup heights, you will simply suppress the final fret and then read the distance between the top of the pickup's pole pieces and the bottom of the string. You can measure this space with a six-inch ruler and use 4/32” on the low E string and 3/32” on the high E string as a starting point. However, it's a good idea to refer back to manufacturer guidelines for reference. Also, keep in mind that pickup heights can be very subjective and that you are definitely not testing the guitar on the same amp as what the customer is using.  It's always a good idea... --- > Get expert advice on cleaning your guitar's electronics from the premiere guitar luthier school in the country- Guitar Craft Academy. - Published: 2020-03-26 - Modified: 2023-10-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/cleaning-a-guitars-electronics/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: cleaning guitar electronics, electric guitar, guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar electronics, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville https://youtu. be/poZzdkgfdoc After you've finished the guitar setup process, there are a few other things you can do to make sure your guitar is functioning properly. One is to clean out the potentiometers and the output jack. First, remove the electronics control cavity backplate or pick guard. Then spray out the pots with electronics cleaner to remove dust and debris that might have collected on the carbon wipers (which can lead to a scratchy noise when turning the pots).  Remove the knobs and tighten the nuts if the pots are loose on the pick guard or control plate. Cleaning a Gibson-style guitar: If you're working on a Gibson-style guitar with pointers underneath the pot nuts, make sure they are all equally facing the same direction. They should be pointing toward the stoptail, before replacing the knobs.  Then, tighten the output jack nut if it is loose and clean the output jack with a wire bore cleaning brush. Cleaning a Guitar with a Jack Plate: On electric guitars with a jack plate, you might have to remove the mounting screws to tighten the jack nut so that the output jack doesn’t twist in place. (This is how a wire can break off of a solder point).   On acoustic guitars with a loose output jack at the end pin, you will want to make sure that the retaining nut inside the guitar is properly adjusted to fit the tail block before tightening the outer nut. To do this, remove the threaded... --- > Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to adjust a guitar's intonation with the help of a strobe tuner. - Published: 2020-03-23 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-intonation-guitar-setup-and-maintenance/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: adjusting intonation, guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, intonation, musicians institute nashville https://youtu. be/rSX4LT4IY_4 Now that the truss rod is adjusted, the string action at the bridge is adjusted, and nut slots are dialed in, you can now do the last step of the setup, which is to adjust intonation. Tuning fretted instruments Fretted instruments have equal temperament by design, and therefore have limitations when it comes to tuning. By this I mean that the tuning of each individual note is a function of the fret location on the fretboard.  Fretless basses would be the exception to the rule, in that the player is intonating as they play. The same is true with stringed instruments like violins and cellos. Since you are unable to move the actual frets, you have to make sure the instrument stays in tune up and down the entire span of frets by making adjustments at the bridge saddles. The rule of thumb here is that a string, when struck at the 12th fret, should produce a tone exactly one octave above the open note on the same string. If I play the open high E string, the 12th fret E an octave above it on the same string should also be in tune.  Players all want the same thing, and that is a guitar that plays in tune and stays in tune. Good intonation is mandatory in making this happen. Use a strobe tuner Put the entire guitar up to pitch using a strobe tuner at the open notes. Then check to see if the strike note... --- > Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how strobe tuners work and how you can use them to adjust your guitar's intonation. - Published: 2020-03-19 - Modified: 2023-10-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/using-a-strobe-tuner/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, luthiery, musicians institute nashville, strobe tuner, using a strobe tuner https://youtu. be/Gqkcub0o1Hc High Quality Guitar Strobe Tuner The best way to get accurate readings when setting intonation is to use a good-quality strobe tuner. This is because strobe tuners act as a magnifying glass when tuning a guitar. If you break down the interval in between two notes into 100 separate intervals, called cents, you will be tuning with very fine precision. A strobe tuner makes this possible. If you can adjust the 12th-fret strike tones within 5 cents of the open strings, then you will end up with a guitar that will play in tune. And it will stay in tune all the way up and down the neck (that is, with a fretboard that is properly slotted and frets that are properly crowned). If you have a guitar that has separate string saddles like a Strat or a Tune-O-Matic bridge, then this is a very easy process. --- > Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to properly adjust the depth, width and angles of your guitar's nut slots. - Published: 2020-03-16 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-the-nut-slots/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, luthiery, musicians institute nashville, professional luthier https://youtu. be/BXs6-q6L_VQ https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=qPqBVEfQ0CQ&t=4s After adjusting the truss rod and setting the string saddle heights at the bridge, you can now make the third adjustment, which is to the nut slots. There are three aspects of the nut slots that you will be addressing in the setup process in order to make sure that they are cut correctly: The nut slot depths, The slot widths, and The slot angles. When to adjust the nut slots You typically make adjustments to the nut after setting the bridge, as the heights of the nut slots are a function of the overall string angle. The string angle is determined by the string action height at the bridge. The individual slot depths are cut so each string can clear the first fret. You might notice that some guitars fresh off of the showroom floor are a little difficult to play in the first position (at the first five frets).  This is because the manufacturer will cut the nut slots on the high side on purpose. Then a local guitar tech at the store can adjust them to customer taste. It is much easier to cut a nut slot down than to raise it by either filling the slots or shimming the entire nut up. The effect of nut slots that are too high Nut slots that are too high create a situation where the guitar is difficult to play in first position. They can also throw off the tuning and intonation. Nut... --- > Guitar Craft Academy instructor Dave Johnson explains how to properly adjust a Fender-style floating bridge on your guitar. - Published: 2020-03-12 - Modified: 2022-09-26 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-a-fender-style-floating-bridge/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: electric guitar, guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville https://youtu. be/mTlnr5jxnwI If you are adjusting a Fender Strat-style guitar with a floating bridge, this is the point at which you will balance the trem so that the strings will pull the bridge base off of the body.  Floating Strat bridges do have tuning and stability issues, but if they are of good quality and adjusted correctly they can sound great. When you float the bridge, you are essentially putting the trem springs in the mix. There is definitely a tone in that.  Plus, the ability to pull back on the arm is a beautiful thing when doing light vibrato. Adjusting a floating trem To adjust a floating trem, you will essentially copy the steps of the hardtail bridge up until the last step.  I would recommend either adding a removable wedge-shaped block behind the trem block or tightening the spring claw behind the guitar. This is so the trem doesn’t move when going through the steps of tuning and adjusting saddles. Then tune again.  If you block the trem or tighten the claw, you will essentially turn the guitar into a hardtail until you start to balance the trem. There are two styles of floating Strat bridges: six-screw or blade-style. For a six-screw design: If your guitar has a six-screw design, you should tighten the two screws that attach the bridge base to the body so they make equal contact on the bridge base plate, then lift the four in the center so they are lifted up off of... --- > Guitar Craft Academy instructor David Johnson explains how to adjust a Tune-o-Matic bridge, the standard bridge on Gibson electric guitars. - Published: 2020-03-09 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-a-tune-o-matic-bridge/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: adjusting the bridge, electrric guitar, guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville, tune-o-matic bridge https://youtu. be/t5Aiw-ROmBk Tune-o-Matic bridges are actually pretty easy to adjust, since the entire bridge sits on two thumbwheels at either side. The radius should be adjusted at the factory, but a good setup tech will check this to make sure that it is correct. Checking the fretboard radius You can check the fretboard radius using an undersaddle radius gauge. Place the gauge under the strings to make sure that the saddles are equal in radius to the fretboard.  In the event that they don't match (sometimes overseas guitars and even some USA Gibson production will be a little off), you can use gauged nut files to deepen the string slots on the saddles.   If the radius on the bridge is too flat, you can file the string slots on the low and high E strings to lower these strings down to the gauge. Leave the center strings as they are, then adjust the A and B strings.   If the radius is too round, you can lower the center strings so they match the gauge. Just be careful not to bury the strings too deep in the saddles. A string slot that is too deep can choke the string and impede clarity. Also, you should not file straight across, but rather tilt the file back to the stoptail so the string jumps off of the front edge of the saddle. Then round over this angle so the saddle also does not cut into the string.  If you notice that the... --- > Tips for setting up, repairing, adjusting, and maintaining the truss rod to your guitar. GCA shares expert insights on your guitar truss rod. - Published: 2020-03-05 - Modified: 2024-01-10 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/adjusting-the-truss-rod-guitar-setup-and-maintenance/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar neck, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville, Truss rod, truss rod adjustment https://youtu. be/4On1PFHc3iw In any setup on a guitar with an adjustable neck, the first step will always be to adjust the truss rod. A guitar neck that is properly adjusted will have a slight amount of relief (not completely flat), which is what allows each fretted note to have a clear shot to the bridge at all points of the neck. When the neck needs adjusting With a truss rod that is functioning properly, there are only two things that might require the neck to be adjusted: A change in string gauge (higher or lower tension) or A change in weather humidity (which can cause the neck to expand or contract). For instance, a customer who decides to set up a guitar for 12-gauge heavy strings, but was playing 9s on it before, will probably need to have the truss rod tightened to counter the higher string tension. Also, a guitar that has developed high string action in the winter might also need to have the neck tightened to counter the lower humidity levels (and conversely, let out in the summer with higher humidity). Why adjust the truss rod? Adjusting the truss rod as it relates to setup and playability is a big deal because it dictates how much space will be under the string in the middle of the neck, as opposed to the string action height at the nut or bridge. Slide players will want a lot of relief since they don’t want the slide to hit the... --- > In this series, Guitar Craft Academy instructor and professional Nashville luthier David Johnson will walk you through each step and also cover electronics cleaning and tightening of hardware to make your guitar play and sound its best. - Published: 2020-03-02 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/introducing-our-guitar-setup-and-maintenance-video-series/ - Categories: Guitar Setup and Maintenance - Tags: guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar setup, guitar setup process, musicians institute nashville, Nashville luthier https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=uYe6azOyr2c In our new Guitar Setup and Maintenance video series, Guitar Craft Academy instructor and professional Nashville luthier David Johnson will walk you through each step of the setup process and also cover cleaning electronics and hardware tightening to help your guitar play and sound its best. A guitar setup, when taken as an entire process, is simply four steps performed in a certain order: Neck adjustment Bridge adjustment Nut slot adjustment Intonation A guitar setup is not a repair, it is an adjustment. Guitars are typically made out of some type of wood and therefore will move and shift with the changes in humidity, as well as the wear and tear of use. Learning the basics of a guitar setup will undoubtedly save you time and money down the road, as most all instruments will need to be adjusted regularly in order to consistently play great. At the end of the day, all players are really after the same thing: an instrument that plays in tune and stays in tune, and is playing at a “comfortable” action height. Whether you're just interested in keeping your own guitars playing well or pursuing custom building and guitar repair, we hope this series will help take the mystery out of the process and give you the knowledge to move forward. --- > Learn a guitar performance tip from Bruce Buckingham! Guitar Craft Academy caught up with world-renowned musician, instructor and author. - Published: 2020-02-07 - Modified: 2023-08-15 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/performance-tip-from-bruce-buckingham-why-guitarists-should-read-music/ - Categories: Playing Tip - Tags: guitar, guitar playing, music memorization, performance tips, playing tips, practicing guitar, reading music Bruce Buckingham - Guitar Interview With Bruce Buckingham "I never use tablature. Especially with jazz guitar students, I discourage them from using it. All the energy you put in learning tablature, you could be putting into learning to read music. You have to remember, tablature is just a guitar thing that the rest of the musical world doesn't use. " "The first step is to memorize your notes, your chord positions and your scale shapes. You have to start simple. I recommend using a method book to learn the various patterns — Musicians Institute has a series, and I used the Berklee books back when I learned. The books take you through each of the patterns, an open position, and then up the fretboard. It’s a solid foundation for learning how to play up and down the neck and learning where certain notes lay. Without knowing how to read music, I wouldn’t have had as much opportunity as a guitarist because some jobs require it. It opens you up to a whole world and helps clear up the mystery of where things lay on the guitar. " -Bruce Buckingham What is the Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy? 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. Upcoming Events & Programs We are dedicated to inspiring excellence... --- > A Tennessee mechanical engineer shares his journey of pursuing guitar-making at Guitar Craft Academy and plans to build guitars and give back through a nonprofit. - Published: 2020-01-06 - Modified: 2023-02-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-jesse-peery/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: custom guitars, guitar building, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar craft academy student, musicians institute nashville, student profile Jesse Peery has been building things his entire life, first while growing up on his family’s East Tennessee farm and later as a mechanical engineer. But there’s always more to learn about what makes things work, which is what led him to Guitar Craft Academy. "I enjoy making stuff, period. You look around, and who actually makes things anymore? " he says. After attending Guitar Craft Academy’s one-week Summer Shot class, Jesse decided to take the plunge as a full-time student — putting his regular job as a military contractor on hold. He recently completed our acoustic craft class, and has previously graduated our electric craft class as well, making the two-hour drive every day to Nashville from his home in Manchester, Tennessee. Peery says he never considered himself much of a “guitar guy" until he started playing in college as a way of building grip strength in his fingers. Unlike many of his fellow students, he doesn't plan to work full-time as a luthier now that he's graduated. But he does plan to continue building guitars and hopes to pass along some of his new skills through a nonprofit that he's helping to create. “I spent all that time getting my (engineering) degree — why stop? ” he says. “There’s no one saying I can’t do both. ” --- > Ryan Madora explains different tips for practicing guitar and how to build strong habits and make practice fun and easy to do regularly. - Published: 2020-01-02 - Modified: 2023-08-15 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/practicing-tip-from-ryan-madora-self-motivation/ - Categories: Playing Tip - Tags: bass guitar, guitar craft academy nashville, musicians institute nashville, performance tips, playing an instrument, playing guitar, practice, practicing an instrument, practicing tips, ryan madora The most difficult part about practicing is physically sitting down to do it. We all have obligations, work, families, and social engagements that easily get in the way. Suddenly, another week goes by without any progress. I think it’s important to figure out how to self-motivate. I recommend finding ways to reward or “treat yo’self” in a positive manner. Hopefully, you’ll feel as if you’re getting something in return for practicing (in addition to playing and improving on your instrument). This could be something as simple as “If I practice for 30 minutes, I can watch a show on Netflix,” or “If I practice 5 times this week, I’ll reward myself by going to a restaurant that I’ve always wanted to try. ” Sometimes, the satisfaction of making a to-do list and being able to cross off the word “PRACTICE” is reward enough. If you happen to be taking lessons, you may even consider that a reward. After all, it’s an hour with a professional teacher who is there to help you on your musical journey. The key is to find what works best for you. It might take some brainstorming, but discovering ways to self-motivate is essential, and reward systems may be just the thing! --- > Discover Brandt Jewell's journey from tinkering with guitars to enrolling in Guitar Craft Academy and building his own unique instrument. - Published: 2019-12-13 - Modified: 2023-02-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-brandt-jewell/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: guitar craft academy nashville, luthier school, luthier student, musicians institute nashville, student spotlight Brandt Jewell jokes that he's the black sheep of his family. Although his family members aren’t musical at all, he says he found himself drawn to guitar from an early age. After hearing an iPod commercial featuring the U2 song “Vertigo,” Brandt decided he wanted to learn how to make the sounds he was hearing. Guitar lessons soon turned into a deeper interest in taking things apart and putting them back together. At his high school in Franklin, Tennessee, he soon developed a reputation as the guy who could help other musicians make their instruments sound better. “If I couldn’t be a shredder, I was going to find a way to make myself valuable,” he says. “I was going to be the guy who could tinker with stuff. ” Post-college, Brandt found himself looking for a new career direction and found it through Guitar Craft Academy. He’s currently enrolled in our electric craft course and is working on a single-cutaway hollow-body guitar that brings together several elements from his favorite vintage axes. “I took a bunch of elements of stuff I’ve seen over the years that was a little different and smashed them together,” he says. Brandt Jewell's passion for the guitar started at a young age, despite not coming from a musical family. His curiosity led him to take apart and fix instruments, making a name for himself among his peers. Even though his dream of being a shredder didn't materialize, Brandt found a way to turn his passion into... --- > Repair a back-bowed guitar neck like a pro! Follow these step-by-step solutions using truss rod adjustments, heat, and clamps to bring your guitar back to life. - Published: 2019-12-11 - Modified: 2025-02-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-mark-lacey-how-to-repair-a-back-bowed-guitar-neck/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar repair, guitar repair tips, luthiery, mark lacey, musicians institute nashville, professional luthier, tech tip (Mark Lacey is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville and the owner of Lacey Guitars. ) What Causes a Guitar Neck to Back Bow? Ideally, a guitar neck should have a small amount of forward relief, approximately 0. 008 inch, so that the strings won’t buzz on the frets. Back bow usually occurs when either the neck has had a refret and the new frets are too tight in the fret slots, which is more prevalent on ebony fingerboards, or on a new build when water-based glue was used to glue on the fingerboard. Some guitars have a two-way truss rod which may correct the back bow, but a single truss rod will only correct for forward bow. Fixing a Back Bowed Guitar Neck A back bow can usually be corrected with the aid of 250-watt heat lamps. The heat lamps are positioned about 6 to 7 inches above the fingerboard surface. I made up a fixture specifically to do this type of repair. One simply needs to heat the fingerboard surface for about 20 minutes with the stings tuned to pitch. The heat will soften the glue between the fingerboard and the neck and at the same time allow the neck to bend forward.   Don't Overheat Care must be taken to not overheat the neck. The headstock and body should also be protected from the heat with the aid of corrugated cardboard. I test the amount of heat by touching the back of the neck with the back of... --- > Resetting the neck of a vintage guitar can be tricky, that is why we wanted to offer helpful tips to get it right. - Published: 2019-11-06 - Modified: 2024-04-30 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-dave-johnson-steaming-out-the-heel-of-an-om-18/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: guitar building, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar repair, guitar repair tips, guitar restoration, Musician's Institute, vintage guitars (Dave Johnson is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville and the owner of Scale Model Guitars in Nashville. ) I'm currently working on a restoration of a 1931 Martin OM-18 for Carter Vintage Guitars in Nashville. This job will include a neck reset, something that sounds scary, but isn’t a difficult repair if you adhere to time-tested techniques and procedures. Tips for Restoring Vintage Guitars The most risky part of the neck reset is releasing the dovetail from the neck block. There is really only one rule to adhere to when pulling the neck out of a vintage guitar, and I can sum it up in five words: Do not break the heel. I start by bringing water to a boil in a hot pot and then injecting it into the holes that I drilled down the neck pocket with a syringe. This is really just to get it started — the hot water will instantly release the exposed areas of hide glue inside the pocket and get things moving. You don’t want to overdo it with the syringe and hot water.  We don’t want to turn the dovetail and neck pocket into a sponge, we're just trying to release the big stuff. After a few passes, things will start to move. After I can lightly move the neck around in the pocket, that's when I know I am ready for steam. For this demo, I actually made a new jig out of MDF and cork board, which you can see on my Instagram feed covering the entire... --- > For Minghao Zhu, the desire to deepen his understanding of luthiery led him from China to Nashville to attend Guitar Craft Academy. - Published: 2019-10-30 - Modified: 2022-03-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/luthiery-student-profile-minghao-zhu/ - Categories: Student Spotlight If you're trying to learn guitar repair, lessons on the internet can only get you so far. For Minghao Zhu, 32, the desire to deepen his understanding of luthiery led him all the way from his hometown of Guangzhou, China, to Nashville to attend Guitar Craft Academy. Minghao's love for guitars was ignited during high school when he saw a live performance and wanted to understand how the sounds were being made. He went on to teach himself basic repair techniques and even did some luthiery work in an instrument store for a couple of years. As a new resident of Nashville, he says the city's "Music City" nickname is deserved. "It's really cool, man. This is one of the best cities — everybody knows how to play the guitar. And the music culture is pretty great. I love this city," he says. As a student in our Electric Craft class, Minghao is currently building his own four-string Fender Jazz-style bass. But he says his real love is in repair. His dream is to work in a repair shop after graduation, either in the U. S. or China. "I love to bring damaged guitars back to life," he says. --- > It's important to pay attention to the effect that heat in our homes can have on acoustic instruments. Learn how to prevent guitar damage from low humidity. - Published: 2019-10-07 - Modified: 2022-07-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-marty-lanham-stay-humidified/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: guitar care, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar damage from weather, guitar maintenance, humidifying guitar case, humidpaks, instrument care, Musician's Institute, weather changes, wood care (Marty Lanham is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. ) As the summer ends and we prepare for cooler weather, it's important to pay attention to the effect that heat in our homes can have on acoustic instruments, including guitars. Low humidity can cause instrument damage, shrinkage, cracks in the finish or wood, or even more serious problems. I always advise guitarists to humidify their instrument rooms, if possible. You can measure and monitor the humidity in your room using a hygrometer. Another way to assess your guitar's dryness is to run your hand along the side of the fingerboard. If your fret ends stick out along the edges (and didn't before), it's a sign that your fingerboard has shrunk. Don't worry — this condition is fixable, but it's a sign that something needs to be done. If your instruments are on a stand, I suggest putting them in their cases until the weather changes. An easy way to maintain proper humidity in this closed environment is Planet Waves Humidipaks, which can be placed inside a guitar case and automatically maintain the optimal 45%-50% relative humidity level inside. They last up to six months and can eliminate the guesswork and potential mess of refilling a humidifier. --- > Take a look at a real Guitar Craft Academy student's experience during their enrollment to see what it looks like to be enrolled. - Published: 2019-10-02 - Modified: 2023-11-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-nicholas-worch/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: carpenter, electric guitar, electrician, guitar building, guitar craft academy nashville, instrument building, luthier in training, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, student spotlight, woodworking After picking up the drums at age 9, Nicholas Worch quickly realized that drum kits aren’t the most portable instruments. Yet, when he switched to guitar a few years later, his drum style became an influence on his chugging, beat-driven guitar playing, which owes a debt to Judas Priest and Stephen Carpenter of the Deftones. Nicholas came to GCA with some previous woodworking experience helping his grandfather – a carpenter and butcher – repair and build furniture and decks. He's also a former electrician, and said he has enjoyed learning about the electronics that go into instruments. “It’s fascinating to see how much electronics are going to play a part in guitar building in the future,” he said. “There will always be a market for the ‘traditional’ guitar, but now there’s also a growing market for technology like active pickups and things like that. ” Nicholas' electric project guitar is based on Stephen Carpenter’s STEF-T7B signature model, which has a Telecaster-style body and baritone-style setup that’s perfect for drop-tuning. He plans to continue at GCA's acoustic program, and has dreams of eventually setting up his own shop in North Carolina and crafting custom guitars. --- > Guitar Craft Academy discusses a comprehensive guitar tool kit for repairs and maintenance that is easy to use for caring for your guitar. - Published: 2019-09-03 - Modified: 2023-08-15 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/product-spotlight-premium-tool-kit-from-music-nomad/ - Categories: Product Spotlight - Tags: guitar craft academy nashville, guitar maintenance, guitar maintenance tip, guitar repair, guitar repair kit, luthier toolkit, luthier tools, luthiery, Musician's Institute If you're looking for a comprehensive guitar maintenance and repair tool kit, Music Nomad's Premium Guitar Tech Screwdriver and Wrench Set is a great choice. It's designed specifically for guitars and comes with 18 screwdriver bits, 7 hex wrench sizes, a premium spanner wrench and a large, attachable handle that is engineered for most common hex wrench sizes.  It works well for pretty much any adjustment to your guitar hardware, including tuners, jacks, pots, bridges, pickups, tailpieces, string guides, pickguards, tremolo arms and more — even in hard-to-reach places like nuts in sunken pots and recessed Tele jack cups. --- > Every guitar has its own characteristics. Read more guitar tips from Ryan Madora about getting to know your instrument. - Published: 2019-08-30 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/playing-tip-from-ryan-madora-know-your-instrument/ - Categories: Playing Tip - Tags: bass, bass play tips, bassplayer, electric bass, guitar craft academy nashville, instrument, Musician's Institute, ryan madora Ryan Madora is a bass performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. Each instrument has character — the tonal possibilities, setup and overall feel of the instrument will inspire you to play a certain way. I enjoy knowing what each instrument in my arsenal is capable of and what it will bring to the music. During a session for an Americana artist, I might choose to play a classic P-bass with flat-wound strings to get a warm, vintage sound. If I play a live gig and am expected to solo, I’ll choose a guitar with sharper tone and a slimmer neck. Familiarity and access to a variety of instruments is essential to being a working professional. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Call us (800)-255-7529 to learn more. --- > Our student spotlight is Dave Sabella! After working in the advertising industry his entire professional life, he’s branching out into a new career as a luthier. - Published: 2019-08-28 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-dave-sabella/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: coming out of retirement, guitar building, guitar craft academy nashville, luthier in training, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, student spotlight Dave Sabella comes to Guitar Craft Academy with an entire career already under his belt. After working in the advertising industry his entire professional life, he’s branching out into a new career as a luthier. Even as he’s still learning the basics of guitar construction, Dave already has plans for the company he wants to build — Jane Fox Guitars LLC, named after his 8-year-old granddaughter. His niche will be high-end guitars targeted at children, women and musicians with smaller bodies. “I want to get up every morning and go into my workshop and build guitars and sell them,” he says. “This is an opportunity to do what I love to do. ” Dave grew up listening to KISS — he saw them in 1978, when he was 13 — and at one point had a dream of moving to L. A. to “live on a dirt floor and form Guns N’ Roses. ” He instead went to college and started a family, and “it’s been weekend-warrior stuff since. ” As a retiree, Dave says he doesn’t need to make his guitar business profitable right away. But that doesn’t stop him from approaching his business plans with the mind of an experienced marketer. “It’s tough because I think about who I’m going to sell to, which guitar makers I’m going to steal business from,” he laughs. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI... --- > Get to know Brian Bonds, a talented faculty member at MI Nashville. Discover his expertise and passion for music education in this faculty spotlight. - Published: 2019-08-06 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-spotlight-brian-bonds/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight - Tags: brian bonds, faculty spotlight, florida georgia line, guitar craft academy nashville, guitar instructor, guitar lessons, Musician's Institute, playing guitar, private music lessons Brian Bonds' name will be familiar to Florida Georgia Line fans — he played guitar and was musical director for the Nashville-based country group for five years. Now an in-demand Nashville session player and producer, Brian has joined the Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty as a guitar instructor, working with students to improve their playing chops. “It’s been a blast,” he says. “The thing I like is figuring out where they’re at as guitar players and where they want to go, and building the course around that. What works for one person might not work for another. ” Bonds has lived in Nashville since 2006, when he moved here from Atlanta to pursue music. He soon started landing prestigious gigs with artists including Chely Wright, Love and Theft and Chase Rice, eventually joining Florida Georgia Line while the band was still working to gain a following. “I rode that wave all the way up, which was fun —I went from touring in the back of a Tahoe for five bucks a day to riding in jets. ” Bonds amicably parted ways with Florida Georgia Line in 2014, the same year he became a father, so that he could spend more time with his family. He now has three sons, all named after his favorite guitar players — Hendrix, Halen and Abbott. "I haven’t slept in five years," he says with a laugh. "When you have kids, it's the same as being on tour. There's still whining at 2 in the morning, the... --- > Tech tip from Dave Johnson: Slide Away. Meet the instructors, view programs, and participate in hands-on workshops at MI Guitar Craft Academy. - Published: 2019-08-02 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-dave-johnson-slide-away/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: electric guitar, faculty tips, guitar building, guitar building tips, guitar craft academy nashville, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, tech tip (Dave Johnson is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville and the owner of Scale Model Guitars in Nashville. ) Even after more than a decade as a luthier, I still learn new things here and there where I can't believe I never knew about them before. My fellow Guitar Craft Academy Nashville instructor Brian Nutter showed me the coolest trick to make a part of the building process less frustrating. When you're drilling wire passages from the pickup cavities down to the control cavity and have to support the drill bit so it doesn’t burn into the top, try throwing the bit into a metal slide and then holding onto the slide as you drill. Works like a charm! Mind blown. What is the Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy? 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. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the programs offered by Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, please visit http://www. tn. gov/thec/topic/authorized-institutions-data. Contact Musicians Institute Guitar Craft Academy Nashville Come experience an exciting preview of what your life will be like when you study at MI Guitar Craft Academy. Meet the instructors, view a brief program presentation, participate in hands-on and Q&A sessions. Visit our website at... --- > Learn about life at a music college- Brandon Edwards shares his journey and passion to becoming a student at Guitar Craft Academy. - Published: 2019-07-31 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-brandon-edwards/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: electric guitar, guitar building, guitar craft academy nashville, luthier school, luthier student, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, student spotlight Brandon Edwards grew up in Stanford, Kentucky — just down the road from Montgomery Gentry's Eddie Montgomery, a Danville native — so it's fair to say that music's always been part of his life. "I got fascinated with Les Pauls — seeing how you could move a whole audience with a guitar, and it always fascinated me that it starts as something I can build with my hands," he says. After discovering Guitar Craft Academy Nashville on the internet, Edwards, 21, knew the path he wanted his career to take. He's now in the Electric Craft course and plans to continue in the Acoustic Craft course this fall. He's currently building a guitar inspired by his dad's love of KISS — an Ibanez Iceman lookalike similar to the model played by Paul Stanley for many years. "It’s an intricate body design, and the guitar is beautiful," he says. "You can build a guitar and it’ll last a lifetime. " His favorite part of Guitar Craft Academy's program, he says, is getting to learn from seasoned professionals like Brian Nutter, formerly a guitarist for Keith Urban. He hopes to apply his knowledge working in Nashville after his graduation. "Having somebody who’s been there on the road, showing you what they learned, showing us their techniques and how they make life easier — it’s insane," he says. --- > Most manufacturers and some independent luthiers use CNC machines to build their guitars. The process starts with drawing a design on the computer. - Published: 2019-07-25 - Modified: 2022-07-18 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-from-mark-lacey-designing-a-guitar-body-using-rhinoceros/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: CNC machine, drawing on rhinoceros, guitar body drawing, guitar craft academy nashville, luthier tips, Musician's Institute, rhinoceros, rhinoceros software, tech tip, telecaster Most manufacturers and some independent luthiers use CNC machines to build their guitars. The process starts with drawing a design on the computer. My favorite program for doing this is Rhinoceros. Rhino (for short) is a powerful 3-D drafting and rendering program which can be downloaded at rhino3D. com. It offers a 90-day free trial, and students can purchase a license for only $199. There are plenty of help files in the program, and many tutorial videos can be found on YouTube and Vimeo. For this demonstration, I will be drawing a Telecaster body. The steps are as follows: 1. First, import a picture of a Telecaster by using the "picture" command in the software. A box will open up, where you can choose an image file from your hard drive. You can also import a pen or pencil sketch. It just needs to be a . jpeg or similar image. 2. Place points around the body. 3. Hide the picture and connect the points using the "curve-interpolated points" command. I will then scale the drawing to actual size. 4. Draw the rest of the curves for the body pockets. The above steps are all that is required to create the part with the machine. Although, you can also extrude the curves to get a three-dimensional view of the part. You can even go a step further by rendering the part with a material, which in this case is maple. Once you're satisfied with the design, export it as a DXF... --- > The Bass Performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy, Ryan Madora, had an interview with Bass Player Magazine about her playing journey. - Published: 2019-07-17 - Modified: 2023-09-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/ryan-madora-in-bass-player-magazine/ - Categories: Company News, Faculty Spotlight Our bass performance instructor Ryan Madora got the chance to sit down with Bass Player Magazine to talk about her journey as a female bass player and her successful career as such. --- > We asked our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville instructors to dream big and tell us what one instrument they would love to own if they could. - Published: 2019-07-16 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-what-rare-instrument-do-you-wish-you-could-own/ - Categories: Faculty Roundup - Tags: banjo, charvel, earl scruggs, faculty roundup, Fender, gibson, goldtop, granada, les paul, san dimas, segovia, thunderbird For our latest Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty roundup, we asked our faculty members to dream big: If they could have any instrument in the world, with price being no object, what would it be? Read on to see what they had to say. A 1983 black Charvel San Dimas with the rare Strat-style headstock. For our latest Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty roundup, we asked our faculty members to dream big: If they could have any instrument in the world, with price being no object, what would it be? Read on to see what they had to say: Brian Nutter: I would love to have an early San Dimas “Strat Head” Charvel. Marty Lanham: An Earl Scruggs Granada 5-string banjo. Earl Scruggs holds a unique place in the history of the 5-string banjo. As Andre Segovia did for the classical guitar, Mr. Scruggs brought the banjo to worldwide attention. His playing style with the three picks evolved from older playing styles, including minstrel and old time. Countless banjo enthusiasts have tried to emulate the sound of Earl Scruggs’ banjo. The legendary Earl Scruggs plays his signature Gibson Granada 5-string banjo. Millions of instruments have been made to sound "just like Earl," but few can approach the powerful combination of the master player and the perfect Bluegrass banjo. First designed and manufactured in the 1930s by the Gibson guitar company, the Granada was at the high end of the Mastertone line with gold plating, fancy inlay and finish. The ‘tone ring’ of this instrument accounts for much of its sound quality and volume. Made of bell bronze, it weighs several pounds and make the banjo quite heavy, a bit more than a Les Paul.   I have played this banjo at some informal jams... --- > Looking to make the jump to becoming a guitar luthier? Take a look at a real student's journey at Guitar Craft Academy in Nashville. - Published: 2019-07-05 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-michael-volk/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar craft academy student, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, student spotlight (Michael Volk is a current student at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. ) I got started playing music in the fourth grade on the cello. That didn’t last long when rock ‘n’ roll became a major focus of mine at around age 11. That’s when I received my first electric guitar and amp. Shortly thereafter, my friends and I formed a band we named Turmoil. My interest in luthiery really started out as a young child, whittling on pieces of wood I found out behind my home.  I’ve always been interested in the patterns and graining that you’ll find in wood, and I have always gravitated towards building things out of wood. Years later, after watching a Danny Gatton video and falling in love with the guitar he was playing, I decided to make my first electric guitar. I looked into the MI course years ago when I lived in Southern California but was unable to attend due to my military commitments. As luck would have it, years after I retired from the military, I found myself here in Nashville. Still having a portion of my G. I. Bill left, and MI receiving its VA credentials, I was really happy to find out I was going to be able to learn from great craftsman and guitar technicians that work here at the Nashville campus.   Currently I’m working on a guitar of my own design, which is influenced by the painting 'Chinese girl' by South African/Russian artist Vladimir Tretchikoff. I like to say it’s a... --- > Enhance your guitar's tone and playability through the meticulous craft of fretwork. Our tech tip on fretwork covers everything from fret leveling to fine intonation adjustments, empowering you to achieve professional-quality results and a flawless playing experience. - Published: 2019-07-03 - Modified: 2023-07-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-fretwork/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: fret repair, fretwork, gruhn guitars, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthier tips, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, tech tip One of the first build or repair traits to catch my eye on any steel-stringed instrument is fretwork. Fretwork allows an instrument to look and feel great when it's played — but it also can make an instrument unplayable if it's not carried out properly. Common Fret Problems and How to Fix Them Once the fingerboard is prepped properly with respect to its radius, flex-points and truss-rod function, the frets are then installed. The frets can then be glued and the excess material is removed with fret cutters. The ends will then be beveled and the newly installed frets will receive the lightest fret-dress to ensure perfect playability. Step-by-Step Guide to Fret Leveling and Crown Shaping Within the polishing process I like to stop at 1,000-grit sandpaper to lightly manicure either side of each fret using a fret-end file. The strokes need to be uniform throughout the board — then the polishing process continues with 1,500, 2,000 and super-fine-grade steel wool. Executed in this way, the frets have a look of mindfulness with the finesse of experience. — Greg Voros(Greg Voros is the repair shop manager at Gruhn Guitars in Nashville. ) --- > "Discover Marty Lanham's profile and expertise as a music faculty member at MI Nashville. Watch the video to learn more about his teaching approach. - Published: 2019-06-26 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-profile-marty-lanham-video/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight - Tags: acoustic guitar, banjo, guitar building, guitar repair, guitar restoration, luthiery, marty lanham, nashville guitar company, Nashville luthier, vintage guitars We visited Marty Lanham, owner of Nashville Guitar Company and instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, at his home workshop to talk about his more than 50-year career as a luthier: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vr61cvaWk4s --- > What type of glue should you use on your guitar and why? Let’s take a quick look at four common types of glue used in making guitars. - Published: 2019-06-12 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-a-sticky-situation/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: glue, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar glue, guitar repair, luthier tips, luthiery, Musician's Institute, nutters guitars, tech tip (Brian Nutter is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville and the owner of Nutter Guitars. ) Sooner or later in guitar making you’ll need to use glue. The question is, what type of glue should you use and why? Let’s take a quick look at four common types of glue used in making guitars. 4 Common Types of Guitar Glue PVA (polyvinyl acetate) glueThe most common type of glue in modern woodworking and luthiery.  Titebond is a PVA glue. It cleans up with water, it can be separated with heat and steam, and the glue join will actually be stronger than the wood around it. One drawback to PVA glue is that it doesn’t dry as hard as other glues we’re going to discuss. Hot hide glue This is an adhesive made from, for lack of a better way to say it, animal hides. It’s mostly used in acoustic instruments. Hide glue typically comes in flakes and needs to be dissolved in water, then heated to 145ºF.  It can be thinned and cleaned up with water. It dries very hard and will even help pull joints together as it cures. Because hide glue dries hard, it helps to transfer vibration much better than PVA. The downsides are that you need a special heating pot and that the glue has a very short “open” time before it starts to set up. Fish glueThis is very similar to hot hide glue because it's made of, well, fish parts. Fish glue has many of the same properties as... --- > Get a real look at what it looks like to be enrolled in Musician Institute's Guitar Craft Academy from the perspective of Shu Kawai. - Published: 2019-06-07 - Modified: 2023-11-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-spotlight-shu-kawai/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: electric guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, student spotlight Shu Kawai, a new student in our electric craft course, comes to Guitar Craft Academy Nashville all the way from Okayama, a Nashville-sized city in Western Japan near Hiroshima. Shu grew up loving American blues music by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Claptonand Joe Bonamassa, among others, eventually getting interested in the science behind the sounds he was hearing. He was drawn to Nashville because of its musical history and its active luthier community: "Nashville is famous for guitar — it has Gibson and so many factories," he says. He's currently working on a project guitar that combines a Gibson SG-style body with a Telecaster-like neck and pickup. "If possible, I would like to work in Nashville, be a repairman," he says. "I want to know more about how to repair a guitar and build a guitar. " --- > Wanting to grow as a songwriter? Guitar Craft Academy is hosting a songwriters club to gather like minded people and learn from the best. - Published: 2019-06-05 - Modified: 2024-01-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/summer-songwriters-club/ - Categories: Company News - Tags: clubs, Guitar Craft Academy, john anderson, Musician's Institute, nashville songwriting, songwriters club, songwriting, summer There's no denying Michael Anderson's songwriting bona fides — he's penned tunes for Pam Tillis, John Fogerty and a slew of other notable artists. He became an instructor at Musicians Institute's Hollywood location in the early 2000s, and his Songwriting 101 class is part of the school's core curriculum. After recently moving to Nashville and starting a new band, Michael will be leading the MI Summer Songwriter Club here at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville as a 10-week Saturday morning workshop starting July 13. (Registration is open now; email michaelp@mi. edu to sign up. ) Michael says classes are a mixture of writing sessions, performances with critiques and a background on pop music fundamentals. Songwriting 101, he says, gives students a forum to discover their personal songwriting style and engage their creativity: "People only know what you tell them. You can’t assume that they’ll read your mind. It sounds so simple, but if you’re an artist, you have to touch the listeners where they are somehow. " --- > Looking to learn more about what it is like to take a guitar building class or workshop? GCA highlights some students hard at work. - Published: 2019-05-28 - Modified: 2024-01-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/students-work-toward-completion-of-acoustic-electric-project-guitars/ - Categories: Gallery - Tags: acoustic guitar, electric guitar, project guitars, student project Even if it doesn't look like it from the outside of our Nashville facility, there's plenty of creative activity happening in our classrooms right now as our acoustic and electric craft students work steadily toward the completion of their project guitars. In just a few short months, the students have made great progress on their guitars, taking them from pieces of raw wood into near-finished instruments. Graduation is June 20, which means that they're now in crunch time. Over the next few weeks, they'll be putting in extra hours to make sure their guitars are completed on time, and look and play as professional as they can make them. Here are a few recent shots of several of our students hard at work: Shu Kawai lays out the tuner placement on his headstock before drilling the post holes. Shu Kawai sets the placement of tuners on his headstock before drilling post holes. Brand Edwards cuts fret slots on his neck using a milling machine. Using a milling machine, Brand Edwards cuts fret slots on his neck. Tiernan McKinney shapes the heel of his guitar's neck. Leesa Owens scrapes her guitar's binding to be flush with the soundboard. Luke Lindell fits the neck of his acoustic guitar. Luke Lindell fits the neck into the body of his acoustic guitar. --- > Discover Dave Johnson's musical expertise and teaching approach in this faculty spotlight video. Learn from his wealth of experience at MI Nashville. - Published: 2019-05-01 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-spotlight-dave-johnson-video/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight - Tags: guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, professional luthier, Scale Model Guitars Dave Johnson, one of our instructors at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, is a former accountant who switched careers after deciding he wanted to do something he was passionate about. He started Scale Model Guitars in 2003 and has never looked back. "I never have a shortage of work," he says. "To work with your hands in a skilled trade, making art — this is just one of the best professions I could imagine. " https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=-Lby2GlPFy4 --- > Interested in iconic guitars? GCA looks at the CD Martin OM and its history, making, and notable musicians to play it like Eric Clapton. - Published: 2019-04-30 - Modified: 2024-02-14 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/iconic-guitars-the-cf-martin-om/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: acoustic guitar, cf martin, eric clapton, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar history, martin guitars, marty lanham, mtv unplugged, Musician's Institute, nashville guitar company, Nashville luthier, paul simon, steel string For the next installment in our ongoing series delving into the history of iconic guitar models, we spoke with Marty Lanham, owner of Nashville Guitar Company and an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, about the CF Martin OM. Could you talk about the history of the CF Martin OM acoustic guitar? The “OM” stands for “orchestra model. ” I think it’s a really interesting piece, a really important part of their history. It was first built in 1929, and it was a response to changes in popular music and the demands of musicians of the day. Previously, up until the 1920s, dance bands used a four-string banjo for the rhythm section, and that was starting to change to the sound of guitar, which was more versatile. Guitars at the time only had 12 frets out from the body, like classical guitars, so musicians only had access to 12 frets. The banjo players, led by a fellow named Perry Bechtel, asked Martin to make a guitar with greater access to the neck and a slimmer neck. Frank Henry Martin came up with this design, which had 14 frets. This moved the bridge to a different place on the 12-fret design, so they had to change the body as well. Martin for decades had been in transition from nylon traditional strings to steel strings, and this was the last step in creating the dedicated steel string guitar. The 1930s were very important for the development of American steel string guitars. The... --- > Immerse yourself in the world of guitar with George Pjetri's remarkable showcase. Watch the video to witness his incredible skills and be inspired by his passionate performance at the renowned Nashville Music Institute. - Published: 2019-04-24 - Modified: 2023-07-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-george-pjetri/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: electric guitar, flying V, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar showcase, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier Graduate George Pjetri talks about the design of his project guitar and what inspired it: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=ieTnvch63tA&t=1s --- > Experience the musical journey of Colton Sipp in this inspiring graduate profile video. Discover his talent and achievements at MI Nashville. - Published: 2019-04-18 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-colton-sipp-video/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, novo guitars Alum Colton Sipp is on his way to becoming a luthier extraordinaire with his work at Novo Guitars. Hear about how his experience at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville prepared him for his career in luthiery: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=LRt6QYjPCTo&t=117s --- > Witness the awe-inspiring guitar showcase by Patrick Berhow, a true virtuoso of the instrument. Prepare to be amazed by his extraordinary technique and musicality in this exclusive video from the Nashville Music Institute - Published: 2019-04-16 - Modified: 2023-07-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-patrick-berhow-video/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: electric guitar, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier Graduate Patrick Berhow talks about his project guitar that he built in the electric program at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Uv3Lda5az4g --- > Guitar Craft Academy offers helpful advice on how to use a fret zapper to remove frets from your guitar in a quick and easy way. - Published: 2019-04-12 - Modified: 2023-12-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-removing-frets/ - Categories: Tech Tip, Uncategorized - Tags: acoustic guitar, frets, gruhn guitars, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthier tips, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier Using a Fret Zapper I use this tool, called a fret zapper, to remove guitar frets. The guys at Gruhn Guitars showed me this when I was working there. It’s essentially a 150-watt soldering gun with the tip replaced with two separate pieces of copper. How to Use a Fret Zapper You simply hold the ends onto the fret and then pull the trigger. The metal acts as a conduit, absorbing a lot of heat very fast, and therefore the fret can be removed much faster than with a standard 80-watt wand-style soldering iron, preserving the fret slots. All it takes is about a second of heat on each fret, and you can safely and cleanly remove an entire set of frets in minutes. --- > Join us for an unforgettable guitar showcase featuring Craig Standridge. Watch the video to witness his remarkable performance, showcasing his exceptional skills and undeniable passion for music at the renowned Nashville Music Institute. - Published: 2019-04-10 - Modified: 2023-07-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/guitar-showcase-craig-standridge-video/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: acoustic guitar, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier Now a teacher's assistant, Craig started out in both the acoustic and electric programs. Watch as he discusses the creative choices behind his acoustic guitar design. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=3GZxQWGHquc&t=2s --- > Guitar Craft Academy puts the spotlight on Brad King and his journey into music and what he loves about being a student here. - Published: 2019-04-04 - Modified: 2023-09-25 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-brad-king/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase, Student Spotlight - Tags: electric guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier, telecaster Brad King’s journey to Guitar Craft Academy Nashville started with his dad’s car radio. “My dad would listen to the radio and knew every song, everybody in the bands, all the instruments they played — it was like a history lesson,” he said. “To me, that was the coolest thing in the world. ” Inspired by his own love of music — especially Southern rock, gospel and Motown — Brad started playing guitar and learning music theory, which in turn made him want to learn more about how his instrument worked. Brad, 39, decided to enroll in Guitar Craft Academy Nashville after working the past decade as an accountant and six years before that as a correctional officer. “I’m just ready for a career change, and that’s the main reason I’m at MI. It’s a freaking blast — I love it,” he said. Brad recently completed the Electric Craft course, building a blue Telecaster copy as his project guitar, and will start the Acoustic Craft course in early April. After he graduates, he wants to start his own repair business. “It’s so empowering to me as a musician to look at my guitars at the house and know I can make them play better and look better,” he said. “I can’t imagine a time in the future it won’t be cool to me. ” --- > We caught up with Ryan Madora, bass performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy, to discuss her career and her work at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. - Published: 2019-04-02 - Modified: 2024-03-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/qa-ryan-madora-guitar-craft-academy-bass-instructor/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight - Tags: bass, bassist, basslessons, bassplayer Ryan Madora recently joined the Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty as a bass performance instructor. Originally from Philadelphia, Ryan moved to Nashville in 2012 and has stayed busy performing in the studio and onstage with Robben Ford, Bobby Bones and many others (check out a Spotify playlist of her recordings here). We caught up with Ryan to discuss her career and her work at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. Ryan Madora recently joined the Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty as a bass performance instructor. Originally from Philadelphia, Ryan moved to Nashville in 2012 and has stayed busy performing in the studio and onstage with Robben Ford, Bobby Bones and many others (check out this Spotify playlist of her recordings). We caught up with Ryan to discuss her career and her work at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. Ryan Madora has lived in Nashville since 2012 and began playing in Robben Ford's band in 2017. She just began giving bass performance lessons at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. What first got you interested in music? When did you begin playing? I kind of dabbled in a lot of different instruments when I was younger, through school music programs. I played drums for a while in the school band, and didn’t care for it too much. I had always listened to a lot of soul and R&B music and heard basslines, and later in high school, I started to think about playing bass. I was the person who sat in my basement for hours playing along with records. I was mostly self taught, but later attended New York University to study music business and communications. I knew a couple of other bass players who were familiar with the Nashville music scene, and they were asking what I was doing in Philly. They said I would probably enjoy Nashville from a playing standpoint. A lot of bass players get into a certain performance style,... --- > As a guitar luthier, getting that first sale is like a rite of passage, further confirmation that you are part of a special group. - Published: 2019-03-29 - Modified: 2024-05-28 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/students-first-guitar-sale/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase Any luthier’s first guitar sale is a big deal. But it’s even more impressive when the guitar sold is the first guitar you ever built. So congratulations to recent Guitar Craft Academy graduate Tiernan McKinney, who recently sold his first guitar — built during our Electric Craft course — to a longtime friend and bandmate! McKinney says his guitar’s unique look brings together design aspects from a range of rock- and metal-style guitars that he'd admired on Instagram. His guitar’s fingerboard is made from the Central American hardwood cocobolo, which blends well with the guitar’s mahogany body. McKinney says the guitar’s eye-catching blue metallic paint job was its most challenging aspect, and took several layers to get the look he was after. Now an employee at Gibson’s Nashville factory, McKinney is also playing in a band with his guitar’s new owner: “I’ll get to play it whenever I want,” he says. --- > Take your playing to the next level with Tim Venerosa's insider advice on focused practice at the Nashville Music Institute. Learn how to optimize your practice routine and unleash your full potential as a musician. - Published: 2019-03-27 - Modified: 2023-08-15 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/playing-tip-from-tim-venerosa-focused-practice-makes-perfect/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight, Playing Tip - Tags: Guitar Craft Academy, guitar playing, guitar practice, instrument, learning guitar, Musician's Institute, Nashville, practice, practice makes perfect, rehearsal Tim Venerosa is a guitar performance instructor at Guitar Craft Academy. One of the biggest things I took away from being a student at MI, to becoming a full-time musician, to now being an instructor at the Nashville campus, is how important it is to set aside a realistic amount of time per day to practice your instrument. Here is a quick example of my personal routine I try to work through during the week. Between playing shows, rehearsals, writing and learning material, I have found that one hour per day is a realistic goal for me.  I find it is best to set a timer on your phone for each thing you are working on, and you should immediately stop and move on to the next task at hand when it goes off. 10 minutes - sight reading10 minutes - ear training20 minutes - jazz guitar20 minutes - slide guitar  Even though this isn’t a ton of time spent on each particular item, you will see great improvement by doing it daily, and you will be focusing on each area you are working to improve instead of noodling and wasting time — which is the whole point!   --- > We take a look at Tiernan McKinney and his path to being a student at Guitar Craft Academy- learn from real people what GCA is all about. - Published: 2019-03-22 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-tiernan-mckinney/ - Categories: Student Spotlight - Tags: electric guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar design, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier, student, trade school Tiernan McKinney didn’t care much about music until seventh grade, when he was required to take a music class in school. After he was assigned to play a brass instrument, he quickly realized what instrument he’d much rather be playing — bass.  A few years later, a senior project at his Cincinnati, Ohio, high school showed McKinney the path toward a career in luthiery. For the project, he wrote a 52-page paper about modifying an off-brand bass that he bought at a pawn shop for $50. He got some tips and assistance from a Guitar Craft Academy graduate working at a local Guitar Center, who told him about our school here in Nashville. Now a student in our electric craft course, McKinney says he’s excited about completing his first guitar: “It’s going to be very pointy, metal, shreddy type of guitar,” he says. He hopes to use his knowledge to build a business doing custom work for clients. “One of my favorite parts of building is making something different every time,” said McKinney. --- > Guitar Craft Academy is proud to be part of our local academy, we recently visited some schools in the Nashville area about what we do. - Published: 2019-03-20 - Modified: 2024-09-05 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tennessee-twosome-video/ - Categories: Faculty Spotlight - Tags: bluegrass, bluegrass music, duet, fiddle, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, music, Music city, Musician's Institute, Nashville, swing music, western music Last year, our instructors visited high schools and colleges in the Nashville area and showed students some of the basics of what we do at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville. While there, they were always glad to pick up their instruments and play a tune or two. Here’s a clip of instructor Marty Lanham duetting on the Western swing classic "Faded Love" with McGavock High School teacher Blair Joseph on fiddle. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=3L4PkXqMXQg --- > Looking for advice on how to adjust the truss rod of your guitar? This video walks you through the process step by step. - Published: 2019-03-14 - Modified: 2024-04-30 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-trust-rod-adjustment-video/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthier tips, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier, Truss rod, truss rod adjustment Guitar Craft Academy Instructor Steven Mather takes you through the step-by-step process of adjusting the truss rod in a guitar: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=y2t5E-Dc5oU --- > We caught up with some of our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty members to find out what gear has been recently impressing them. - Published: 2019-03-11 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-what-gear-are-you-playing/ - Categories: Faculty Roundup - Tags: amplifiers, artisan guitars, faculty roundup, gear, guitar pedals, Scale Model Guitars We love gear. Every player has their favorite guitars, amps and pedals to help them chase the specific sound they’re after. We caught up with some of our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty members to find out what gear has been recently impressing them: Guitar Craft Academy Nashville instructor Marty Lanham recommends the Maton AP5 Pro acoustic pickup, used by numerous high-profile guitarists, including Eric Johnson and Tommy Emmanuel. Marty Lanham I like the Maton AP5 acoustic pickup. I saw Tommy Emmanuel use one at the Ryman Auditorium and it was fantastic. He uses his acoustic guitar as a percussion instrument but also gets all the dynamics of an acoustic. Dave Johnson A few years ago, my buddy Jesse Rhew started a crowdfunding campaign for a new guitar pedal that he was going to start making. Being a bit of a pedal junkie, I decided to go in on it, only knowing that it would be some sort of chorus pedal. About a month later, I get a box in the mail with a really cool graphic on the front and possibly one of the best chorus pedals I have ever heard inside. It immediately went on the pedal board and has possibly not been turned off ever since! His company is called Rude Tech and this prototype chorus pedal has since become his flagship model. I actually own a Roland Jazz Chorus amp and this pedal is so close that you really can’t tell the difference. It even has... --- > Guitar Craft Academy shines the spotlight on Lisa Owen's unique journey as a musician and her path to becoming a student. - Published: 2019-03-06 - Modified: 2023-10-27 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/student-profile-lisa-owens/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: electric guitar, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville, Nashville luthier Leesa Owens’ love of guitars started early, but it was almost destined to. She grew up in Montana in a musical family — her grandmother and grandfather both sing, and her grandma also plays guitar. Leesa’s grandma bought her her first guitar and taught her the “G” chord, setting her on a path that eventually led to Nashville in 2008 with the goal of playing music professionally. After spending a few years on Nashville’s downtown honky-tonk circuit, she attended an open house at Guitar Craft Academy and realized that her true passion was for building and repairing guitars. Now nearing the end of our electric course, Leesa eventually wants to own her own repair shop, but she’s also interested in working as a road tech for a touring act. “It has been so much fun," she says of her experience here. "I look forward to going to school every day, which is something most people can’t say. ” --- > When wiring your guitar, be sure to keep it neat. Here are some tips for how to limit loose wiring underneath a pick guard or control cavity. - Published: 2019-03-01 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-keep-your-wiring-tidy/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: electric guitar, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, guitar tech, luthier tips, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier, tech tip Brian Nutter is an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville When wiring your guitar, be sure to keep it neat. Keep all of your leads short. To do this, I make a “cut list. " I pre-measure and cut all of my wire to each specific link. Then, once everything is wired, I zip-tie my leads together to keep everything in place. Loose wiring can rattle underneath a pick guard or control cavity, causing noise. It also has the potential to create grounding issues that could cause noise or your circuit to completely fail. The photos here show the circuit for my Astro Captain before and after wiring. – Brian Nutter --- > Witness the transformative impact of MI Nashville on Jeremy Smith's musical journey. Explore his graduate profile to gain insights into his growth, achievements, and passion for creating music. - Published: 2019-02-27 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-jeremy-smith/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: gibson, gibson guitars, graduate, guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, luthier, luthiery, Musician's Institute, Nashville luthier Before enrolling at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville last year, Jeremy Smith, 25, says he had reached a point in his life where if he didn’t pursue a career in luthiery, he knew he never would. A recent graduate of Guitar Craft Academy Nashville’s electric and acoustic courses, Jeremy started a new job this month at Gibson’s Nashville factory as a neck fitter. He’ll be working on all of Gibson’s iconic models — Les Pauls, Firebirds, SGs and Thunderbird basses — matching necks to guitar bodies based on model and serial number. He says GCA Nashville’s acoustic program taught him to use chisels and make precise measurements and cuts, skills that paved the way for his Gibson job. Jeremy has been interested in music since childhood, when his grandparents bought him his first guitar. He got his first musical education hearing hymns and worship music at his church, where his father was worship leader. During his teens he became interested in the construction of guitars and started doing small repairs for himself and his friends. “I love it,” he says of his job at Gibson. After he finishes work on a guitar, he stamps his approval number — 2 — under each instrument’s back plate. “I’m really looking forward to the day when I go to a guitar store and take the back plate off and see my No. 2 stamped in there. I’ll know I glued that neck in. ” --- > Adjusting and setting the pick-up of your guitar is essential to keep it sounding right- see how you can hand wind it for best practices. - Published: 2019-02-22 - Modified: 2024-04-30 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-how-to-wind-a-pickup-video/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: demonstration, electric guitar, guitar building, how to, luthier tips, Nashville, Nashville luthier, pickup, pickup winding, tech tip Wondering how to hand-wind a pickup? Instructor Steven Mather demonstrates the process and explains the intricacies that affect the sound a pickup creates: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=5EUan_DtIDw --- > We caught up with our Guitar Craft Academy Nashville faculty members to talk about the music that they're listening to lately. - Published: 2019-02-22 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/faculty-roundup-listening-isbell-alvvays-seal-les-paul-timmons/ - Categories: Faculty Roundup Given that our faculty members at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville work with musical instruments every day, it makes sense that they’re avid music fans. As you might expect, their tastes are pretty wide-ranging and eclectic. We caught up with them to see what music has been exciting them lately. Marty Lanham: I like Jason Isbell. Some of his songs remind me of the 1960s in their intensity. Dave Johnson: I have had the newest record by the Canadian pop band Alvvays on constant repeat since I first heard it. The record is called “Antisocialites,” and I think it is an indie-pop masterpiece. It’s very rare that you find an LP that is filled with instantly catchy songs top to bottom, and their jangly guitar work is very impressive. It’s also refreshing to hear this style of music coming from a young band — it’s a total ‘80s throwback, but with a modern twist. Definitely give this record a shot! Jason Isbell released his latest record, “The Nashville Sound,” in 2017 backed by his band the 400 Unit. Craig Standridge: For an album recommendation it would be Seal’s latest release of jazz standards. His voice has a unique quality that I admire and the beauty of the timeless songs he sings reinforces my love for those old tunes. Brian Nutter: I’ve enjoyed things from older jazz and western swing records — Jimmy Bryant, Speedy West, Les Paul, Chet Atkins. It was really, really intelligent stuff. Other stuff would be power pop... --- > Guitar Craft Academy explores all about guitar bar frets- when and why they were used in guitar making. - Published: 2019-02-20 - Modified: 2023-12-19 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-bar-frets/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: bar frets, frets, guitar building, guitar repair, guitar tech, luthier tips, luthiery, martin, Nashville, nashville guitar company, Nashville luthier, tech tip History of Guitar Bar Frets “Bar frets were used on CF Martin guitars made before 1934. Part of the function of this type of fret is to act as a wedge and stiffen the neck. The change to the modern “T” cross-section frets was accompanied by the addition of steel neck reinforcement. The first photo to the left illustrates (from side-view) the difference between those profiles. The other photos are of a 1929 OO-28 Martin fingerboard. Bar frets are difficult to work with and often require ‘shims’ to get the needed profile above the fingerboard. ” — Marty Lanham --- > Often, during a repair job, a clamping caul is needed. Many guitars require several clamping procedures that need a custom-cut caul. - Published: 2019-02-19 - Modified: 2022-05-12 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-using-a-clamping-caul/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: acoustic guitar, clamping caul, epiphone, guitar bridge, guitar repair, luthier tips, luthiery, Music city, Nashville, nashville guitar company, Nashville luthier “Often, during a repair job, a clamping caul is needed. In this picture, a spruce block has been cut to match an odd-shaped bridge so that the clamping pressure is evenly distributed. This 1964 Epiphone Excellente requires several clamping procedures that need a custom-cut caul. ” – Marty Lanham, Guitar Tech --- > Experience the inspiring story of Patrick Berhow, a talented graduate of MI Nashville. Watch his captivating video graduate profile and discover how he harnessed his musical passion to achieve success in the industry. - Published: 2019-02-15 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-patrick-berhow-video/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar instructor, guitar repair, luthier, luthiery, MIRC, Music city, Nashville luthier Patrick Berhow, a graduate of the acoustic and electric programs, now works for well-known factory repair shop MIRC. He shared how Guitar Craft Academy helped him advance his career in Music City: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=i_syzVrHph0&t=4s --- > We use the term 'book match' frequently in the guitar trade. People often ask: What does 'book match' mean? Find out from an experienced guitar luthier. - Published: 2019-02-08 - Modified: 2023-01-26 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-book-match/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: luthier tips, saw, tech tip, woodworking "We use the term 'book match' frequently in the guitar trade. People often ask: What does 'book match' mean? The images on the left are of a board that I have sawn in half along its edge. The adjacent cuts are opened like the pages of a book to make a guitar back. This process creates the symmetry that is so attractive in a good guitar. The first picture is of a rosewood board approximately 1” thick. In the second picture, the board has been sawn to create two matched backs. " – Marty Lanham --- > Discover the musical journey of Craig Standridge, a talented graduate of MI Nashville. Watch his captivating video graduate profile and learn how he honed his skills and achieved success in the music industry. - Published: 2019-02-06 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-craig-standridge-video/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: graduate, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar repair, luthiery, Nashville, woodworking Craig Standridge is a retired Air Force veteran who came to Guitar Craft Academy to pursue his love of luthiery. Now graduated, he's continued on with us as a teaching assistant and is growing his own repair business on the side. Check out his story: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=zNIhTBUjpvw&t=11s --- > Installing a guitar Inlay can be a difficult process to execute properly. Here's a demo of inlaying a block inlay into a bass neck. - Published: 2019-02-01 - Modified: 2023-03-22 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-installing-an-inlay/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: guitar, guitar building, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar neck, inlay, luthier tips, luthiery, Nashville, Nashville luthier, tech tip Steven Mather is lead instructor at Guitar Craft Academy. Inlay can be a difficult process to execute properly.  I did a demo of inlaying a block inlay into a bass neck to demonstrate how I go about this process. Step 1: The first step is to measure the inlay and carefully map out where it will be on the fretboard. Step 2: Following that, you can lightly glue the inlay down on the fingerboard within your measured lines. Step 3: From there, take a sharp razor and score/cut around the outside of the inlay. When you remove the inlay, you will be left with a fine razor cut of the outside of the inlay. A helpful trick is to use a light-colored chalk to fill in your cut lines, which gives you a highlighted perimeter of where the route will be. Step 4: With everything mapped out, take a dremel with a small end mill bit and route out within the highlighted chalk line. Step 5: Once the majority of the route is done, you can use a sharp chisel to clean up the edges of the route. Make sure to use the chisel to add square edges to the corners. Step 6: Before you glue in the inlay, find a permanent marker that's a similar color to the fingerboard. Use it to color the outside edge of the inlay, which helps hide any gaps caused by a loose route. Step 7: Glue down the inlay with super glue, then fill in any... --- > Explore the legendary Gibson J-200 guitar with Marty Lanham in this captivating showcase. Learn about its iconic status and experience its rich sound and timeless appeal at the Nashville Music Institute. - Published: 2019-01-31 - Modified: 2023-07-13 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/iconic-guitars-gibson-j200-marty-lanham/ - Categories: Guitar Showcase - Tags: acoustic guitar, dreadnaught, gene autry, gibson, gibson guitars, j-200, johnny cash, martin, marty stuart For the first installment in an ongoing series exploring iconic guitar models, we spoke with Marty Lanham, owner of Nashville Guitar Company and an instructor at Guitar Craft Academy Nashville, about the iconic Gibson J-200. Marty Lanham of Guitar Craft Academy Nashville plays a Gibson J-200 guitar originally owned by Johnny Cash, which he rehabilitated for Marty Stuart, the guitar's current owner. Could you talk about the history of the Gibson J-200 acoustic guitar? There was a lot of stiff competition at the time between the two big guitar-making companies. Gibson and Martin were the two big shots, and they tried to compete with each other. The “singing cowboy” phenomenon of the 1930s was the main inspiration for Gibson’s J-200. The ’30s were an interesting era — performers wanted to play in auditoriums, but needed guitars that were capable of projecting into the bigger rooms. The Martin D-45 dreadnought Mwas introduced in 1934, and the J-200 was a response to the Martin big-body guitars. Ray Whitley, who was a cowboy movie idol, approached Gibson in 1937 about having a guitar designed to outdo Gene Autry, a rival Western crooner. Autry had a fancy mother-of-pearl-adorned Martin dreadnaught. The result was the prototype for the Super Jumbo — which was called the SJ-200 due to its original $200 price. Post World War II, it became known as the J-200, and the names are now used interchangeably by most people. The J-200 model had a lot of inlays and decorations, and was considered... --- > Meet George Pjetri, a MI Nashville graduate who has made a mark in the music industry. Watch his video profile and witness the impact of his education at MI on his career. - Published: 2019-01-30 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-george-pjetri-video/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: electric guitar, gibson, gibson guitars, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, luthiery, Nashville, Nashville luthier George Pjetri graduated from Guitar Craft Academy in 2017 and now works for Gibson USA doing finishing work in their Nashville factory. He says he had a dream of working for Gibson and enrolled at Guitar Craft Academy in order to give himself the foundation he needed.  "It completely worked for me," he says. "Here I am now, working for Gibson and I'm doing exactly what I wanted to do. " See the full video below: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=OHEHHuq_XhQ&feature=youtu. be --- > Explore the musical journey and achievements of Benny Burrows, a talented graduate from MI Nashville. - Published: 2019-01-18 - Modified: 2023-05-31 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/graduate-profile-benny-burrows/ - Categories: Graduate Profile - Tags: alumni, artisan guitars, graduate, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, luthiery, Nashville, nashville guitar company, novo guitars, profile, trade school Benny Burrows, 27, is GCA Nashville’s first international student, having grown up in the Australian city of Brisbane. He started playing guitar at age 10 and got interested in luthiery — “that dream of building that sound that’s in your head” — a couple of years later. Because there aren’t any luthier schools in Australia, Benny decided to come to the U. S. to learn the craft. He became one of GCA Nashville’s first students in 2016, taking both the electric and acoustic courses. After graduation, he started working in the field immediately, and he now juggles part-time jobs at three separate companies in the Nashville area — Nashville Guitar Company, Novo Guitars and Artisan Guitars. “It’s the best of both worlds, instead of being stuck just doing one thing,” he says. “I wouldn’t be working where I am right now without GCA. ” --- > It’s never a pleasant experience to install new frets, only to find out that they won’t seat properly. Here's a tip from a guitar tech to help. - Published: 2019-01-17 - Modified: 2022-05-12 - URL: https://nashville.mi.edu/tech-tip-refretting/ - Categories: Tech Tip - Tags: fret, frets, guitar, Guitar Craft Academy, guitar neck, guitar repair, luthier tips When I do a guitar neck refret job, I create this tool to confirm proper fret slot depth before installing the new frets. I bend a small piece of the fret wire into an ‘L’ shape and lightly file down the burrs on the smaller part of the ‘L. ’ It’s never a pleasant experience to install new frets, only to find out that they won’t seat properly due to short slots or old glue residue in the slots. –Kelly Butler --- ---