Ever want to build your own instrument? Aspiring Pacific Northwest builders, you've got an opportunity for some intense, hands-on experience with James Condino in a special 10-day course on mandolin building in May.

THE MODERN MANDOLIN:
HISTORY, DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
James Condino
May 22-June 3
Oregon College of Art and Craft
Portland Oregon
1.800.390.0632 www.ocac.edu
Brochure (Page 20)

This ten-day intensive workshop will explore the history, design, and construction of the modern carved plate mandolin. There will be an analysis of the great instruments of the last 100 years; how form and function interact to produce good design; and hands-on teaching of the use of tools and techniques.

The goal is for each student to produce an instrument that is aesthetically pleasing, exhibits fine tonal sonority, and has a good feel for the player. Topics covered will include wood selection, instrument design, carving and voicing the top and back plates, jigs and construction methods, fretting and neck structure, professional setup techniques, and spirit varnish french polish finishing. Tools will range from individually designed hand tools and hide glues to modern machinery and jigs. each day will also include a historic "instrument of the day" for inspiration and analysis as well as several guest luthiers who will lead discussions in their varying fields of expertise.

James Condino has built 153 fine musical instruments in the last 20 years. He has worked in solo practice, built instruments for one of the leading production facilities, taught Lutherie from 1996-2000 at Oregon State University, and been published in American Lutherie magazine. He currently resides in Portland, Oregon, where he builds mandolins, guitars, and double basses. In addition to building and teaching lutherie, he is writing a book on the history, design, and construction of the modern mandolin.

We're hoping to post a review very soon of an example of Condino's work. Until then take a look at some of his provocative work, and visit his Website.

More information:

Condino Mandolins:

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Posted by Ted at March 17, 2006 5:47 AM