luthier

A luthier is a craftsman who builds, repairs, or restores stringed musical instruments. The term, from the French luthier, refers to lutes and later to other members of the violin family as well as guitars and related instruments. Luthiers may specialize by instrument family (such as violins, violas, cellos, guitars) or by service (new construction vs. restoration).

Typical work includes selecting materials, carving and shaping parts, precise joinery, and assembling components such as necks, fingerboards, bridges, and sound plates. In violin-family instruments, luthiers sculpt the arching of the top and back, fashion the linings, bass bar, and sound post, and fit the pegs, nut, and tailpiece. Finishing often involves applying varnish or other coatings and performing setup tasks that affect playability and tone, including stringing, neck angle, truss rod adjustments where applicable, and action height.

Materials commonly used are spruce for the top, maple for the back and ribs, and ebony for fittings, with hide glue frequently employed in traditional construction. Tools range from planes, gouges, scrapers, and knives to bending irons and clamps; some luthiers also use modern equipment for precision work, though many emphasize handcraftsmanship.

Training typically occurs through apprenticeship with an experienced luthier or via formal programs and schools offering instrument-making curricula. Professional associations and guilds provide standards and networks for luthiers.

Notable historical luthiers include Antonio Stradivari, Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù, and the Amati family, whose violins are celebrated for their craftsmanship and tonal quality. Today, luthiers continue to contribute to both classical and contemporary instrument making and restoration.