| What students say... |
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| When I asked some of my students to write a couple of sentences for my new web site about what it was like to come and work with me, I certainly didn't expect the over-the-top responses I got. It seems a bit embarrassing to print them here, but I've been assured that they are sincere, so here they are... |
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| Brian is the kind of teacher we all wish we had in school. Passionate, methodical, witty, inquisitive, patient and incredibly knowledgeable. He not only helped me lay a solid foundation for my guitar building, but along the way prompted me to rethink what is important in life. I guess that's what a good teacher can do. I came to him with a few dull tools and a curiosity about how to build a guitar. I left filled with a sharp sense of discovery and a new passion to build the best sounding instrument possible. What Brian has to teach about guitar building you simply can't get from a book. His unique combination of science, craftsmanship, and passion make learning from him an unforgettable experience. Plus, he's a heck of a nice guy. Brian Peterson __________________________________ |
After reading practically every book available, watching three sets of guitarmaking videos, and talking to many experienced luthiers, I still lacked the confidence to move much past the initial stages of building my first guitar. Having spent some time with Brian at various NCAL meetings, I knew that he had the technical knowledge, experience, and organized approach that would get me through the basics, and establish a solid base for all my future guitar building efforts. I spent two full weeks with Brian, and his wonderful wife Sylvia, working hands-on in the workshop during the day, and sometimes in the evening. Unlike many introductory guitar schools, Brian focuses on the fundamentals, and lets you learn and absorb at your own pace. There's no pressure to race through any part of the process, and learning, rather than completing, was always the goal. I came away with a nearly complete guitar, an incredible amount of guitar knowledge, and the confidence to take on just about any future lutherie project. Whether you sign-up for two days or two weeks, I highly recommend Brian, and know that you'll leave refreshed, confident, and with much greater knowledge than when you arrived. Mark Rubash ___________________________________ |
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| I'm a very serious, but amateur, guitar-builder, focusing on classical guitars, and Brian Burns has been an invaluable resource for me. His easy-going style complements his passion for precision and his scientific approach to guitar building. Whenever I come to a point in a project when I am asking myself "what is the best way to do this?," Brian is at the top of my list of experienced builders to consult. He is always seeking to refine his approach to guitar building, and is always willing to openly share his most current thinking on the subject. He treats the student of guitar building with the respect of a colleague, and the encouragement characteristic of a master teacher. Roger O'Neill __________________________________ |
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| At the curve in George's Lane sits an unassuming wood building. Inside is magic. First the smell of tone woods, then the sight of tools, benches, and guitars in various states of creation. Magic, indeed. Brian Burns is a master craftsman dedicated to creating the finest classical and flamenco guitars possible, with methods ranging from scientific tonewood selection and refined plane sharpening to innovative construction processes. And the great news--he desires to share his experience and knowledge with students. As a teacher, Brian focuses on the student at whatever skill level. He is sensitive to the skill and experience of the novice builder, not forcing his agenda on him. Spend a day, a week, or a month (as I did) with Brian, and your guitar building skills will blossom. Rick Scheideman |
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| Four years ago I was a fledgling amateur luthier visiting friends in Fort Bragg. I called you to see if you could spare a few moments for me to drop in, and gain a couple of insights into lutherie. You graciously welcomed me into your workshop and your home. Hours later I left with a wealth of insight and enthusiasm that remains with me today. The opportunity to learn from you is one no aspiring luthier should miss! Brian, I want to look ahead toward 2006 to plan at least one session of several days duration with you. Steve Davison |
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| whatstudentssay.html |
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