Tryon Arts and Crafts School will host a guitar building workshop with renowned luthier Gerald Anderson on Sept. 20-30.

This workshop will offer students the opportunity to build their own, one-of-a-kind guitar. The workshop will end with a concert for the students and Anderson.
Over the 10 days, students will learn the entire procedure of guitar building. Students will construct a Martin D-18 style acoustic guitar with a spruce top and mahogany body.
Anderson, one of the most respected luthiers in the country, will share the expertise he has gained over the past 30 years.
The workshop begins on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 9 a.m. Each day will offer students new information as they work with Anderson and his apprentice, Spencer Strickland. Because of the special nature of the workshop, space is limited to four students.
Anderson began making mandolins 29 years ago under the guidance of Wayne Henderson and has since crafted more than 200 instruments. After he graduated from college, Anderson spent considerable time in the famous guitar maker’s workshop in Rugby, Va., observing and playing music with Henderson. He soon developed a desire to create his own fine-quality instruments.
His early goal was to reproduce the sounds of the classic Gibson-Loar mandolins of the 1920s. He continued to share a workspace with Henderson until just recently when Anderson moved his tools and instruments into the bottom level of his home.
Anderson now shares his expertise and workshop with apprentice Spencer Strickland.
In the many years Anderson has been crafting instruments he has also played old-time music with friends including Wayne Henderson and Butch Barker.
Anderson has made more than 25 recordings and has more than 200 ribbons from musical competitions; the most prestigious being best guitar player at the 2003 Galax Fiddlers Convention. Anderson was among the region’s 12 musicians who participated in the Crooked Road Goes to Scotland Tour in May 2006.
Advance registration and a deposit is required to reserve your place in the workshop.
For more information, contact Tryon Arts & Crafts School at 828-859-8323 or by email tryonartsandcrafts@windstreams.net.
– article submitted by Laura Linz