Official Luthiers Forum!

I "won" an eBay auction for a set of John Mayes' instructional dvds recently and have been through them all at least once. My current quest/obsession is a classical dream guitar and after absorbing most of Robbie O'Brien's dvd, I was casting about for more instruction in this media. (I think I am addicted!)

I can heartily recommend this set to any rookie working on or planning to build their first, second or third SS guitar. FYI - I have never met the guy (but I know our tastes in movies and music are FAR apart on the spectrum! ).

If I have any criticism, it would be that he should consider RE-Shooting the first couple or so just to improve the production values - especially the sound. IMO John also Verbally makes some assumptions about what the viewer knows about tools and building procedures - BUT - he then proceeds to SHOW you exactly how he performs each operation in his shop. Um, this is true for those who buy the whole set.

Each episode has contained at least one valuable tip for me( known as an A-HA moment ), or added to my understanding of on how *I* can approach construction challenges. Personally, I tend to overthink each step - John shows you ways that you can just do it.

I just put in an order for a John Mayes cigar box ukelele DVD- sounds like a good idea for a gift!

Any other good dvds out there?

Milt,
I agree with all your comments. These DVDs are really great. I didn't find the first 3 DVD's that bad really. The sound quality is not as good, but I could still hear fine.

You are going to love the Cigar Box Uke. I'll post some pics of the one I completed in another thread. Thanks for reminding me.
Tracy

What? the first 3 DVD's have sound?? I thought it was a video only release or something!

Just joking....I have already said it before, this is indeed a great addition to any luthier's library!

_________________
Peter M.
Cornerstone Guitars
http://www.cornerstoneukes.com

yes the sound and video in the first ones is not nearly as nice as the other
ones, but that's why they are much cheaper. Just turn up the TV set and
your good to go :) I ain't reshooting them anytime soon.. it's a lot of work
for sure and it would just make the expensive set even more expensive.

_________________
John Mayes
http://www.mayesluthier.com