What is the difference between a luthier and a fine woodworker?

A luthier, a builder of stringed instruments, is primarily dedicated and schooled in bringing out the voice in woods. A fine woodworker focuses on bringing out the appeal in woods. Both craftsmen can create an object of beauty but there are subtle, critical differences between an instrument built by a skilled luthier and that made by a fine woodworker.

1. Voice ­ In fine instruments, rarely are the inside of the woods, especially that of the tonewoods completely flat. Generally, there is shaping, thinning or stiffening, which is carefully adjusted to the frequencies at which the wood will be vibrating when a string is active. Luthiers call this process "tuning the woods" and it is the essence of the craft. Luthiers generally agree that it takes a minimum of ten years for an apprentice luthier to develop the ear and the ability to correctly tune woods.

2. Mechanical Integrity ­ The soundboard of a large harp or a hammered dulcimer will usually have well over 2000 lbs. of string pressure basically trying to pull the instrument apart. Luthiers understand the mechanical physics of each instrument and the importance of the angles and the bridge placement. There is much more than art to the building of an instrument. It is the science of the mechanical construction that will determine the lifespan of a piece.

3. Aging ­ Due in part to both of the above and also to the nature of woods, luthier's instruments improve with time. This is the primary reason for the value of a Stradivarius Violin or an old Martin Guitar. New instruments must have a proper voice and correct mechanical integrity in order to become fine old instruments, but it is the aging itself that is the true measure of a fine instrument.

When purchasing an instrument, it is always essential to understand the skills of the maker. Do not be fooled by instruments, such as some Pakistani Harps, that look lovely today. Also beware of fine woodworkers on the craft circuit who build instruments (because they sell) but formerly made wooden bowls or toys. Generally, these craftsmen, while fine artists, are not necessarily fine luthiers. Finally, it has become common for toymakers to reproduce toy versions of instruments, such as the plucked psaltery. These toys, we know from our customer's multitude of bad experiences, lose their tune easily and have a limited lifespan.

William Rees and a handful of other craftsmen, are preserving the art and science of luthierie. Your instrument purchase is an investment. Only the talent and integrity luthier will preserve the value of that investment.

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