Build your own string instrument under the direct supervision of a professional luthier, Douglas Coghill.

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You will work from raw materials to a finished instrument. Douglas provides the workspace, specialized tools, and step-by-step instruction on everything from wood selection and carving to final assembly and varnishing. Along the way you'll learn about the strong traditions established by the great masters of violin making.

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• Expert Guidance: Small class sizes ensuring one-on-one mentorship (maximum of three students at a time).

• All Skill Levels: No prior woodworking experience is required.

• Instruments: Options to build a violin, viola, or cello.

• Professional Results: Leave with a high-quality, playable instrument you made yourself.

• Lesson/course timings to meet the needs of each student.

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Please get in touch to discuss further.

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Course Fees & Materials

• Tuition: $400 per student per day. Fee includes seven hours (plus lunch break) of personalised instruction, access to professional workshop and tools, and use of specialized luthier equipment. Expect whole process to take a total of 20-25 days (timeframe to suit student) depending on experience and progress of students.

• Estimated Average Material Costs (variable depending timber and material selections):

  • Violin: $1,200

  • Viola: $1,500

  • Cello: $3,000

  • Includes tonewood selection (spruce and maple), all fittings (pegs, tailpiece, string etc), and professional-grade varnish.

• Payment Terms: timber purchased 'up-front', fittings as required, lesson paid per day ('as you go').​​​

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Photos: Caleb Miller