What is NCAT? The Northern College of the Arts & Technology offers specialist, hands-on education in all areas of arts and technology. The college’s Musical Instrument Making and Repair curriculum is the only qualification of its kind in Australia, covering both traditional and emerging digital technologies. Opportunities are available in the guitar industry, practising repair or instrument set up, manufacture and design. Programs offer both traditional woodcraft and high volume manufacture techniques.
Do prospective students need prior skills or certificates? We cover all the necessary skills from the starting point. This not only happens in woodcraft, but also in instrument repair, setup, business, drawing, design and 3D modelling skills. As with all hands on skills, the more prior ability students have, the easier they’ll find it.
What skills can students hope to acquire? Students begin by completing an extensive OH&S program. Across the year, students learn to make a bolt-on electric guitar, a dreadnaught-style acoustic guitar, and design a custom-made instrument of their choice. Students also learn to complete perspective drawings, isometric and concept drawings and use their skills to develop a product range. They also learn to generate computer-aided drawings and create custom templates and jigs, and develop custom logos and inlays for their instruments. In the Repair and Set-up class, all of the classic models are investigated, and tips given on improving the playability and sound quality of their instruments. We look at timber repair methods, sanding techniques, paint and finishing methods, acoustics and sound transfer. The course also covers the development of a business plan.
