The student lute range is for people who can't spend (or intend) to spend too much on their first lute. The lower than average prices are achieved by reductions in manufacturing time (aided by constant developing of manufacturing techniques) and material costs. In order to get the cost down less expensive woods are used, the rose is simple and attractive, and there is no decoration such as points on the fingerboard. It's important your first instrument does not put you off playing altogether so great care is taken over the 'set up' and attention to detail. All wood is sourced from specialist suppliers of quality soundboards and quarter-sawn kiln dried woods

Two different styles of Renaissance lutes are offered. One, after Hans Frei, has a pear-shaped soundboard  whilst the other, after Wendelin Tiefenbrucker, has a more round-shouldered or egg shape soundboard. There is one Baroque lute based on the Hans Frei lute for people who want to play French and early German Baroque music, video clips of some pieces played on the student lute will give you an idea of the sound. Visitors are welcome to come and try out instruments in stock. The student Baroque Lute is always available to try and order from. 

New! for 2007 is the Student Chitarrone (see Chitarroni section of this website). This has been created to make the Chitarrone/Theorbo more accessable to existing lute players who desire to play continuo and solo without spending a small fortune. The cost has been reduced considerably by making the back out of 17 ribs rather than 51! The rose is the same as the original and the soundboard has a protective ebony edging as does the extended neck. The fingerboard has the usual student simple join without points. A video can be seen on the instrument record.

Finally, a small Theorbo based on a surviving soundboard by Pietro Railich is offered at the lowest possible price. There are plans to increase the range by introducing other instruments such as a student Baroque guitar. 

The intention is to get more people playing by offering affordable quality instruments so get playing!