A good eye for colours and shapes, spatial sense and manual skill are essential for violin making. Furthermore, one must bring good sight and hearing, as well as patience whilst working in a small and detailed manner.The training is varied and based on professional practice.
Workshop Classes Two thirds of the entire training concentrate on the actual violin making and its different fields of work: violin construction, set-up and repairing.
Branch courses The manufacturing of tools, use of machines, bow repairing and basics of photography are taught in seperate courses. However, our focus in these courses is on restoration.
Career Studies Science, history and culture studies are brought in to context with the regular on-the-job training. In addition, students also have violin/viola lessons as well as chamber music and orchestra on a weekly basis. Students who have not yet pursued their baccalaureate or completed their initial training in another profession attend additional classes in language, communication and society subjects (LCS).
The apprenticeship also involves workshops, study trips, excursions and concert visits.
Language We expect non-German speakers to develop a sufficient level of German before starting their apprenticeship as well as during the first year so that they can follow the classes. Until then, we can gladly help out in French or English.
Infrastructure The violin making school is modernly equipped and is situated in an architecturally and historically unique building– not to mention its picturesque surroundings.
In addition to the workshop and classrooms the school has a library and a concert hall as well as exhibition possibilities where public events can be held.
Apprenticeship with a violin maker
It is possible to pursue the apprenticeship at a violin maker’s atelier as long as the guidelines fulfil the training plans and training ordinances. Branch courses, career studies, as well as language, communication and society studies must be visited in Brienz.