Intro to Lutherie–Build a Ukulele

The ukulele is a fun introduction to lutherie and an excellent first instrument to learn to play. Build a tenor-size uke, in a style based on a Martin ukulele with a dovetail neck. We'll cover wood selection, bending, shaping, and fretting. Your ukulele should be assembled and playable at the end of class, though some finishing may need to be done at home. All levels–including new woodworkers–welcome; some evening hours may be required. $

$250

Allen Androkites has been teaching woodworking at Pennridge High School in Pennsylvania for more than forty years and has served as department coordinator for over thirty. Students at Pennridge have been making ukuleles and electric guitars for the last three years. In 2017, this program received an award from TEEAP (Technology and Engineering Education Assoc. of PA) for "Program of Excellence." Allen learned electric guitar building through the National STEM Guitar Project. He started building ukuleles in the summer of 2015 (self-taught, with guidance from many people). In summer 2017, he instructed a five-day ukulele workshop for the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman, leading five students to each build a quality ukulele.

Brian Cunfer worked in construction for 30 years before retiring and pursuing his love of Windsor chairmaking in Lancaster County, PA. He studied chairmaking under Dana Hatheway at the Folk School, and with Curtis Buchanan in Jonesborough, TN. Brian has since taught many chair making classes here and in his home studio for the past 20 years. As a Master Artisan of The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, he teaches woodworking and woodturning in the Guild's studio.