Graduates have become professional makers and repairers. They
have gone on to work with J & A Beare Ltd and J P Guivier, both
in London, and William Monical & Son, Staten Island, New York.
Others have ultimately set up their own practice.
Student perspective
"The level of learning is higher here which is why I and many
students from Europe come to West Dean College. We're making in an
authentic way, using hand tools, learning about materials, looking
at original instruments and building a wide knowledge. We've had
specialist trips and access to renowned experts.
What I most enjoy is the pure focus on full-time making and all
day workshop access. We're all interested in guitars and enjoy the
same music, so the workshop is a great environment.
Our tutor is a professional, well-known instrument maker who
teaches us methods to maximise productivity, alongside high level
skills. When I graduate I will work first in a violin or cello
repair workshop, before going into private practice to focus on
making and restoration.
Funding made studying at West Dean possible for me and it has
been totally worth it. I applied for bursaries in Holland then, in
my second year to The Edward James Foundation at West Dean and
private foundations in the UK. I advise any student not to be put
off by fees as it is all possible."
Fons Vogel, Musical Instruments student