Dulcimer Building Classes

Bear Meadow
Dulcimer Building Classes

Bear Meadow Studio-Click to see full size

Taking a class at Bear Meadow is a very rewarding way to build a dulcimer. It is also an excellent education in the art of lutherie. And the dulcimer you build yourself will be one you play with unique pleasure--you will know every stick of wood in your instrument, why it is there, what its contribution to the sound is, and all its little quirks and special virtues.

Every Bear Meadow class is founded on sound principles of lutherie. We want you to know how to make superb musical instruments, and to acquire a foundation in lutherie which will serve you well for further work. In our Master Class, for instance, you will build a dulcimer in the ultimate art of this instrument.

The Bear Meadow Dulcimer Building Classes are private or semi-private, with class sizes of no more than three students.

Introduction to Dulcimer Building - Getting to know the art of lutherie

Advanced Lutherie - Building an advanced model dulcimer. The Advanced Lutherie Class is the core of the curriculum. Graduates will have every skill and necessary knowledge to move directly into building dulcimers professionally.

Testimonial for the combined Introduction and Advanced Classes
Heartfelt appreciation for all the wonderful time we shared together in your introductory and advanced dulcimer building class. You are a superb teacher, I felt you quickly had a read on my skill level and expected me to work to it. Much thought and creativity have gone into the building techniques that you have developed. You openly shared not only the techniques but also the theory and reasoning behind them. I will long remember and cherish my experience at the Bear Meadow Lutherie.
Thank you,
Steve Hirsh
Viroqua, Wisconsin

Master Class - Learning to practice state-of-the-art lutherie

NDS Class - Dulcimer building in the beautiful Adirondaks

Arrangements

Classes are usually held beginning on the first Monday of each month, althought other starting times can be arranged. Classes are held at the Bear Meadow lutherie studio in Rochester, New York. Although no accomodations are available at the studio itself, we will try to be helpful with finding modest arrangements for out-of-town students. A simple vegetarian lunch will be provided, or you can bring your own fare.

Classes at my studio will be held from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM, with two breaks for lunch and walks (the studio is surrounded by a beautiful park). Please notify me of absences, out of courtesy and respect for the work. Some evening and weekend sessions may be arranged if necesssary to complete the class goals.

Enrollment in the NDS Class is through the Northeastern Dulcimer Symposium. For more information, please go to the NDS website, or e-mail the Director.

Fees

The classes usually span continuous weeks, without breaks or deferred time other than holy days and national holidays. Exceptions can be made as needed, of course.

Fees are non-refundable and due one month before the start of the Session. The fees include all materials, but components (mechanical tuners, acoustic pickups, cases, etc) are charged separately, as they are a matter of the student's choice. See the Bear Meadow Catalog Price List for component prices. Classes are as follows:

Introduction to Dulcimer Building - One week, $1000
Advanced Dulcimer Building - Two weeks, $2000
Master Class - Four weeks, $5000

To make arrangements for classes please contact me at:

Dwain Wilder
Bear Meadow Folk Instruments
289 Rich's Dugway
Rochester, New York 14625
dwain@bearmeadow.com
(585) 288-5031

Dwain Wilder dwain@bearmeadow.com