Learn the Craft
Advanced guitar making programs for aspiring luthiers and serious builders.
Our Advanced Programs are designed for students seeking more than a single build. Through immersive 3- and 6-month training, students develop the skills, judgment, and shop practices needed to build independently and pursue lutherie at a deeper level.
Choose your Path
3-Month Intensive Program
Immersive Training
6-Month Extensive Program
Extended Mentorship
An immersive introduction to guitar making for students seeking a deeper understanding of design, construction, and shop practice.
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Build multiple instruments
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Learn traditional and modern techniques
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Develop confidence working independently
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Limited enrollment
Our most comprehensive training experience for aspiring professional builders and serious enthusiasts.
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Extended one-on-one mentorship
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Advanced construction and design concepts
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Greater shop access and project flexibility
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Application required
Who these Programs are For
These programs may be right for you, if...
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You want to build more than a single instrument.
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You're interested in guitar design and construction
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You're considering a future in lutherie
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You value mentorship and hands-on learning
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You're ready for immersive training
Why Study Here?
THE WHITNEY DIFFERENCE
Learn in a Working Guitar Shop
Advanced Programs are intentionally small and highly personalized. Students work alongside Michael Whitney in a professional guitar workshop, developing the skills, judgment, and craftsmanship required to build independently.
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One-on-one Mentorship
Learn directly alongside Michael Whitney in a small, highly personalized environment where questions become conversations and every project receives individual attention.
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Hands-on Learning
Build multiple instruments from raw materials while developing practical shop skills through daily bench work, problem solving, and guided instruction.
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Independent Building
Develop the judgment, confidence, and problem-solving ability required to design, build, troubleshoot, and repair independently long after the program ends.
What Students Leave With
STUDENT OUTCOMES
Build with Confidence
Complete multiple instruments while developing the confidence to build independently.
Develop Professional Skills
Develop practical skills in design, voicing, neck fitting, setup, repair, finishing, and professional shop workflow.
Think Like A Luthier
Develop the judgment and problem-solving skills required to design, build, troubleshoot, and repair instruments independently.
Applying to the Advanced Programs
ADMISSIONS & ENROLMENT
Admission to the Advanced Programs is by application. Enrollment is intentionally limited to maintain a highly personalized learning environment and direct access to instruction. Applications are reviewed individually to ensure the program is the right fit for both student and instructor.
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Apply
Complete the application and tell us about your background, experience, and goals.
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Let's Talk
We'll schedule a conversation to discuss your goals, answer questions, and determine whether the program is the right fit.
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Review
Each application is reviewed individually to ensure the program is a good fit for both student and instructor.
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Enroll
If accepted, we'll confirm your enrollment and reserve your place in the program.
Students under 25 must first complete the 5-Week Full-Time Guitar Making Course before being considered for admission to an Advanced Programs.
Applicants Under 25