We are absolutely thrilled to share a milestone for our community. The European Guitar Builders (EGB) association has officially partnered with the prestigious School of Musical Instrument Crafts (MIC) at Newark College in the UK!
This is the first academic alliance of its kind for EGB. It brings together our international network of independent professional luthiers and one of the UK’s most respected instrument-making institutions to support, teach, and inspire the next generation of guitar makers.
What This Partnership Means
Built on a shared passion for artisan craftsmanship, this partnership directly aligns with EGB’s mission to support independent makers and preserve traditional lutherie heritage while constantly evolving with modern standards.
“True lutherie relies on passing down generational knowledge while constantly adapting to modern standards. By connecting these talented students directly with our network of master luthiers and establishing the new Education Workgroup, we aren’t just teaching technical skills, we are actively investing in the survival and evolution of hand-built guitar making across Europe.”
– Frank Deimel, EGB Chair
“This partnership represents an exciting step forward for our School of Musical Instrument Crafts and, most importantly, for our students.
By working alongside European Guitar Builders, we are connecting our learners with an exceptional network of internationally respected luthiers who share our passion for craftsmanship, innovation, and lifelong learning.
The opportunities this collaboration creates, from masterclasses and mentorship to professional networking and volunteering, will continue to help our students develop the skills, confidence, and industry connections they need to succeed as the next generation of independent instrument makers.
We are proud to be working with EGB to strengthen the future of this remarkable craft.”
– Penny Taylor MBE, Head of Newark Campuses
The 3 Core Pillars of the Framework
This collaboration isn’t just on paper, it introduces deep, practical benefits for both MIC students and the wider EGB community.
1. Educational Outreach & Curriculum Support
- International Masterclasses: EGB will design and host online masterclasses for MIC students, offering global insights into advanced technical skills and essential modern business practices.
- Curriculum Advisory: We have launched a dedicated EGB Education Workgroup to collaborate directly with MIC faculty. We will offer strategic support to refine their Year 3 curriculum, keeping student skills perfectly aligned with current industry expectations.
- Tutor Forum: The partnership creates a unique space for MIC tutors to connect, share best practice, and collaborate with teaching peers across various European lutherie schools.
2. Direct Student Benefits & Mentorship
- Complimentary Membership: Every student enrolled in full-year MIC guitar-making courses receives a free EGB Support Membership, opening up our full archive of technical resources and welcoming them into our global network.
- 1-on-1 Mentorship: Advanced students will be paired directly with established EGB luthiers, gaining invaluable guidance as they transition into the professional world.
- Event Volunteering: Students can gain real-world industry experience and build vital connections by volunteering at official EGB projects and events.
“Belonging to the European Guitar Builders expands your horizons and gives you a place in the world of lutherie, enabling you to be a part of the hive mind and sharing in the collective experience and support of a continent of guitar makers.”
– Adrian Lucas, EGB Member and Former MIC Lecturer
3. Joint Events & Future Planning
We are actively planning joint talks, industry panels, and public discussions. Even more excitingly, both teams are exploring the logistics of having MIC host future editions of the EGB Symposium, utilizing the school’s brilliant workbench facilities for hands-on activities.
Get Involved!
As we roll out our upcoming masterclasses and launch the mentorship scheme in Autumn, we will be looking for EGB members to share their workshop expertise. Keep an eye out for upcoming dates and full details on how you can get involved!
To explore more about the school, head over to the School of Musical Instrument Crafts Website.