What Is a Luthier?

Luthier is a French word, pronounced roughly “loo-tee-ay”. It means a maker and repairer of stringed instruments. This demanding craft calls for passion, patience and precise work. A luthier must understand both the wood and the instrument’s characteristics in depth.

Musicians naturally want to play good instruments. At a certain stage, some seek an instrument made specifically for them, and this is where a luthier can help. Building one may take months. The maker considers the musician’s wishes and works towards an instrument that meets them. The time, craftsmanship and quality of the wood and other materials also contribute to a substantial cost.

Türkiye has many accomplished luthiers working in this demanding craft, some with reputations beyond the country. Examples include Erkan Sızarlar, Kenan Turgut, Ekrem Özkarpat, Murat Sezen and Özgür Mehmet Yıldırım.

How do you become a luthier? One training route is through instrument-making departments at state conservatories within universities. If you enjoy precise work and have patience and aptitude, it may be a craft worth exploring.

Cahit Baltacı
Rekor Sanat – Guitar Teacher