Earl Scruggs Center Presents Luthier’s Crafts


Earl Scruggs Center Presents Luthier’s Crafts

Chris Testerman, (left) is explaining his craft to a fellow luthier Warren Yates of Hickory, NC (right) at the Earl Scruggs Center’s special.
The first luthier traveling exhibit was presented at the Earl Scruggs Center on Friday, June 27th. The exhibit featured Chris Testerman who gave demonstrations of his craft and spoke with guests, in the Great Hall. For those who are not knowledgeable as to what a luthier is, let us explain. A luthier is someone who makes or repairs the strings on instruments such as  the violin or guitar. This unique craft is usually divided into two categories: makers of stringed instruments that are plucked or strummed and makers of stringed instruments that are bowed.
Other string instruments that a luthier is able to make repairs on are the cello, double bass, banjo, viola, and fiddle.  This specialty craft was presented, embracing the traditions of the Blue Ridge and Piedmont. This special event will be on display until the end of December. It is very interesting as the exhibit takes you through the various stages of the craftsmen who make the instruments. The special exhibit is well worth a visit and is fascinating as to how the music, which we love, is created on the instruments, which provide the sounds of our heritage.   
 – M. A. Andrews