Musical Instrument Craft (Guitar Making and Repair)
Entry requirements
GCSE/National 4/National 5
GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above
UCAS Tariff
A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points from: GCE A and AS Levels with at least one subject at A Level BTEC National (Diploma or Extended Diploma) in a relevant subject T Levels Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher with at least one subject at Advanced Higher Plus GCSE English – Grade C/4 or above GCSE Maths – Grade C/4 or above *For mature applicants, some experience may be taken in lieu of A Levels/BTECs EU and International Applicants ENIC confirmed equivalent of 48 UCAS points
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About this course
The BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft (Guitar Making and Repair) is a highly specialised, practical, programme that was established in 1984 and is situated at the heart of the Newark College campus.
The course teaches the craft of making classical and steel stringed guitars and aims to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to be guitar makers in their own right. The programme runs over three years and by the end students will have had the opportunity to build a minimum of three guitars of contrasting designs.
The tutors work as experienced professional guitar makers who teach part-time and are able to bring their considerable skills and experience as well as their understanding of current business practice and construction techniques to the course.
The course has close links with players and other makers who visit to lead special workshops and discussions, as well as providing students with valuable feedback and comments about their work.
Newark has a lively international community of instrument-making students, most of whom are also musicians, which new students may find very supportive.
Modules
Year 1;
Anatomy and Design,
Basic Techniques,
Workshop Practice,
Making Specialist Tools 1,
Historical and Contextual Studies.
Year 2;
Core modules:
Applied Acoustics,
Problem Solving,
Making Specialist Tools 2.
Optional Modules:
Guitar Making Techniques,
Basic Repair Techniques,
Advanced Construction Techniques (Classical),
Advanced Construction Techniques (Steel String),
Finishing Techniques.
Year 3;
Business Practice,
Advanced Craft Techniques,
Professional Standards Test,
Final Major Project Preparation,
Final Major Project Realisation.
Assessment methods
The assessment methods typically used throughout the programme include:
Assessment of practical work supported by a portfolio of notes and research
Tuition fees
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Extra funding
Additional compulsory course costs will be paid for using the Career Degree Bursary.
The Career Degree bursary was established in order to enhance our Higher Education students’ academic programme and support their studies - helping to make our students more employable, industry prepared and equipped for life as a graduate.
A bursary of up to £500 for full-time students over the course of their programme to support any aspect of independent study or compulsory course specific costs.
In addition, course coordinators will be allocated an additional payment to spend each academic year on enhancements that will support the development of employability skills and progression to graduate level employment.
Students who wish to access opportunities in excess of the Career Degree Bursary may do so at full cost to themselves.
*It cannot be substituted for cash, fee waiver or in-kind support funds
Please see the full ‘HE Terms and Conditions’ for details of additional library and printing costs associated with this programme.
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