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Taking your French Polish class was a treat. You are an excellent teacher, and wonderful craftsman. Lupe

I was out at your shop in 2018 for the FP course. I've done 75 to 100 builds/rebuilds since then and every top has been FP. The course was invaluable. Harry

Hi Robbie, just wanted to thank you again for the opportunity to build with you last week. It was a great experience and I really enjoy the guitar. Lawrence

My time in class with you last week was worth every penny. I'm so pleased with all aspects of the class. Mark

I'd like to express how enjoyable building a guitar with you last week was. I had a wonderful time, and it was educational on so many levels from beginning to end. Anybody wanting to build a fine guitar and learn how to make it sound great should consider contacting Robbie. I also recommend his video courses. There're great for beginner or experienced luthiers. Mark

"Thanks Robbie for a great week of guitar building! Andrew and I really enjoyed our time in your shop and the opportunity to learn from you.  Not only did we take home two beautiful instruments that sound as good as they look, but we learned so much from working with you.  I have a much better understanding of what it takes to fine tune and voice the soundboard, shape the neck and make those transition curves from the heel to the body flow, optimize the bracing, perfect the saddle and bridge heights, and on and on.  The details you shared through your instruction will help take my guitar builds to the next level.  Best wishes and here’s hoping we can share a joke or two in the future." Ken

That was a wonderful experience for us. I still am enjoying that guitar and appreciate all that I learned that week with Robbie. Steven

"Can't say enough about how much I enjoyed Robbie's 6 day onsite acoustic guitar build course. Though I showed up with almost no background in woodworking, I left with a working knowledge of the tools and processes needed to build an acoustic guitar. I also left with an amazing OM cutaway with a stunning French polish finish that sounds incredible." Scott

I really enjoyed the one-on-one workshop with you. I gained valuable knowledge to help my guitar building move forward. Thanks again for all your guidance! Ivan

I’m so glad I went to Colorado to study with Robbie and build a classical guitar. I’ve been making guitars for a few years on my own, and the chance to spend a week one-on-one with a master luthier like Robbie was invaluable in helping me to dial in my technique. Now I think my own guitar building is ready to move to the next level. Being able to spend this time in the shop just me and Robbie was such a unique experience that I’ll never forget. I came home with the nicest guitar I have ever owned. Even better, I came home with honed skills and a renewed energy and motivation to carry on this beautiful tradition. Thanks, Robbie, and to all the other aspiring luthiers, happy building! Sean

This week building with Robbie far exceeded my expectations. It was one on one for 6 days. I have built many guitars and a few of them are pretty good sounding. This one is in another league. Lynn in Tennessee

The 6 Day Class was an invaluable experience. It is my pleasure to build the guitar with you. Thank you for every useful tips you shared with me. Julie - Taiwan

I want to thank you again for taking the time to teach me how to build a beautiful guitar! Beautiful looking, beautiful construction and most importantly, beautiful sounding! I first heard your story on the Luthier on Luthier podcast and then read even more on your website. When I started following you on FB and saw some of the instruments that were being built in just 6 days I decided I definitely needed to build with you. Thankfully, I was able to build with you a couple weeks ago and the entire experience was absolutely incredible! What a blessing! Tim

You have a monopoly on the best lutherie education in the world! Jon

Really enjoyed the course last week, and like these others, I’m hooked! Al

I very recently built my first guitar with Robbie O’Brien in Parker, CO, which I highly recommend. Now have the luthier bug and am setting up to start building in my shop. Barry

Robbie has it down to a science. He has a tight schedule and sticks to it. Michael

I had the pleasure and good fortune to spend a week at O'Brien World HQ learning the art and craft of traditional classical building from Robbie - what a treat and great time (coffee breaks were the best!). The first I built with Robbie is a Brazilian B/S and Pacific Tonewoods sonically graded Sitka top. It came out beautifully in all aspects. Peter

Thanks for the guitar I built with your instruction. It's my primary guitar, and it's playing very well after almost 15 years now. Best wishes. DJ

Thanks for the gift you have given to me and my son. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Mike

When I took Robbie’s class I took lots of pictures of the shop and areas. The equipment and work stations are well laid out. Efficient. It was like you could take a couple of steps in any direction to perform the tasks. I took a lot of steps off my building area when I got home. Louie

I took the plunge, even though it stretched my budget a bit, it was worth it. For me it came down to, am I doing this seriously or not? Hence the trip I couldn’t really afford, paid off. Plus I came home with a pretty nice guitar. Louis in Alaska

Robbie O’Brien is an awesome instructor and has a very comprehensive build process. Dan

I’d highly recommend Robbie O'Brien. He schedules 20+ 1-on-1 classes a year, so due to demand I had to reserve this back in mid-2022. Full upbeat days; a happy, encouraging teacher setting the pace… I could go on but it’s been a joy. Bill

Hello from the Andes. It's been a year since I was with you in Colorado, and I'm filled with gratitude for how amazing this guitar is in my life. Thank you thank you thank you. I'm still gathering tools and things to set up and build another one down here. Wish me luck. Trampas in Peru

At your shop this past February we built an OM from raw lumber all the way thru applying a French polish finish and giving it a full set-up in six days. It was a blast not only getting to work side-by-side with you but also to spend time chatting about business, sharing shop stories and hearing about your journey teaching lutherie. Although I learned a lot there in person with you, I believe I learned as much (if not more) from your instructional videos. Just having the videos with me in my shop and playing thru every step of the build while I was working was an invaluable tool and probably the one tool I most highly recommend. Neil

Robbie is very good with matching the experience with the level of the student’s background. Barry

I am busy building, and I use so many things from the week I spent with you and all your videos. Elaine

Wanted to just say thanks and also express how much I learned from you in such a short amount of time! Anyway, thanks again for a great experience and it was a pleasure to meet you and spend the week together. Phil

I am really excited to be taking your course! I'm excited about how you focus on efficiency. Your approach is different and more practical than most other teachers! Dave

When my friend Mike suggested I build a guitar I was both excited and terrified at the concept. I am a real beginner at playing the guitar and the only tools for woodworking I am comfortable with are sandpaper and the pencil. Even though I have no wood working experience, Robbie made this a wonderful journey. The whole process is great; the tools, the woods and techniques are fascinating. Robbie is a fantastic teacher. He made me feel comfortable. The result is better than I ever dreamed it could be! My guitar is beautiful and playing my own guitar is something really special. I have already planned to build my next guitar with Robbie in 2025! I’m hooked! The process was very relaxing…S o skip the vacation to Disney and build a guitar with Robbie! You will never regret it! Marisa

I have been waiting 40 years to do this and I am so grateful that you are doing what you do. Rex

All in all this class was the highlight of the year for me. The guitar sounds amazing, and I am sure the soundboard design elements you use and teach are important aspects of this. I’m writing some stuff with the guitar this month and when finished I’ll send it along. Thank you again for allowing me in your home and working with me on this guitar. Pat

The week I spent with you building my guitar was a truly enriching experience. I learned a huge amount, and I thoroughly enjoyed you and your wife’s company. The guitar sounds great, and I play it nearly every day. Peter

Thanks Robbie!!! It was an amazing experience!!! Nestor - Uruguay

I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated the virtual French polish course. Your course was excellent, totally made the process easy to follow and showed how to get a great finish. Up until now FP seemed like something that I’d need to spend years getting right. I know I still need some practice with the technique, but the insight and expertise that you passed along has made all the difference in making FP achievable for me. Greg

I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated the virtual French polish course. Your course was excellent, totally made the process easy to follow and showed how to get a great finish. Up until now FP seemed like something that I’d need to spend years getting right. I know I still need some practice with the technique, but the insight and expertise that you passed along has made all the difference in making FP achievable for me. Greg

Virtual French Polish class - I’ve had good luck with this technique-thank you it has opened up a new world for me in the one area that I always fumbled! Jim

I just wanted to let you know how much I’m loving the guitar. As I’m getting acquainted with it and general approach to classical style, I’m hearing it open up a little more every day. I’m so pleased with the way it turned out and the great week we spent building it. This is definitely an experience that will stay fresh with me. Peter

I felt motivated to send you a quick note to basically say thank you. In a very short time, it has become obvious that you have incredible passion, skills, knowledge, and experience as a luthier. What makes you even more impressive is that you have a gift in sharing all you have to offer with others. All of that in one person seems rare. Look forward to learning a lot, lot, lot more with you. Bob

Honorable mention and many thanks to Master Luthier Robbie O'Brien for being such an inspiration and awesome teacher! I love your special terms and Oh yeah, your good friend! Kenny

Thanks Robbie for an instrument (built with you) I've played for almost 14 years now, and for the steel string I purchased made by you, they are both very capable and elegant instruments. DJ

Virtual Voicing - Thank you so much for the excellent course on soundboards. This course filled in a few gaps for me and will make a big difference moving forward. I appreciate your professional, friendly and collaborative approach in your online live courses. Emmet in Canada

I just want to thank you very much for teaching your Virtual Voicing class. I gained a wealth of information, and had a great time to boot! The class was very well organized and facilitated a lot of good discussion amongst all participants. I learned a great deal beyond the specified course content, and I'm sure I'll be referencing all of the recorded information every time I go to voice a new top. I can't wait to get building the rest of the guitar to go along with the top we made during class! Pete

I just want to thank you very much for teaching your Virtual Voicing class. I gained a wealth of information, and had a great time to boot! The class was very well organized and facilitated a lot of good discussion amongst all participants. I learned a great deal beyond the specified course content, and I'm sure I'll be referencing all of the recorded information every time I go to voice a new top. I can't wait to get building the rest of the guitar to go along with the top we made during class! Pete

It is a great joy to turn rough sawn wood into something beautiful that makes beautiful sounds. Thanks for what you do. Steve

Love the course and appreciate your teaching style.  Emmet

Thank you again Robbie for a wonderful week. All the so called “little” things you taught regarding technique, efficiency, esthetics added up to a lot of learning in one week. It will take me a while to digest it all. Moreover, your companionship, sense of humor and straightforward immediate but gentle critiques made for a fun and non threatening week. My only fear is that I may have become that “I had a student that did that once” student. I will steer others to you for sure! David

As a novice to any shop tools other than a screwdriver, wrenches, and a few hammers and such, and with no skills in woodworking, I scheduled a six-day, in-person class with Robbie to build a guitar at his shop in Parker, Colorado. When I arrived, it felt like I had just seen an old friend. I was greeted at the door and invited in to start my class. I left his shop with the confidence and understanding of the tools that I would be able to build a guitar in my basement. Robbie’s instruction ability, confidence building, and patience equate to an excellent instructor. Donald

Robbie is the teacher/instructor/mentor who takes a personal approach to teach you how to build a fine instrument. He takes the time to explain and shows you the task, then guides you as you perform the task. For a novice, this was a huge relief. His classes are structured like a well-oiled machine, there is no downtime, and you move right to another task, which truly helped me learn how this instrument is structurally built. One section leads to another section. Like his organizational skills, his shop is also like a well-oiled machine. It’s laid out so that you are never out of reach of something, yet still large enough to work comfortably. There is an old saying, “Any man can be a father, but it takes a special man to be a dad” this can apply directly to Robbie; any Luthier can show you how to build an instrument. A true teacher of luthiery teaches you how to build that instrument. Robbie is that person. Donald

I really enjoyed your article in the Guild of American Luthiers Magazine about How To Set Up Your Guitar. Peter

Robbie is an EXCELLENT teacher. You can't go wrong Kevin

I really like the online classes that Robbie O'Brien offers. I have watched (on his forum for students) as many first timers without wood working experience have built their first. The classes are not inexpensive, but I found they are worthwhile. He is great teacher, having taught Lutherie in a community college, the classes are nearly real time. He also offer one week build a guitar classes from his home shop. John

Robbie is for a woodworking novice as well as more advanced. No better teacher for someone starting out. John

Robbie Obrien is a great luthier and a master teacher. He offers both hands on and video instructions. I highly recommend his classes. John

I love my guitar you made. Matt was playing it with a capo on about the 7th fret and said it really sparkles in the high that way. Well that’s a great guitar! Kim

  I wanted to express that the time my son and I spent with you in Colorado has so wonderfully added to our quality of life.  My son, Mike (jr) has built more than 30 guitars since our class with you.  I have been quite a bit slower, but am currently working on my number 7.  Thank you so much for adding such beauty to our lives, and we will cherish it for as long as I have the ability to use the gift you have given us. Mike

I built my first guitar from a kit using only the videos from O'Brien guitars. My wife suggested that I take the class in Colorado, and should invite my son Michael to go as well, since he was building ukuleles. The experience is a lifetime experience, and completely changed my life with such a fulfilling hobby. You not only learn to build a guitar, but you come back with a world class guitar that will compete with any Martin, Gibson, or Taylor available. If you want to learn to build a guitar, I agree with Mike- go to Colorado and build a guitar with Robbie O'brien. Then prepare to enter a hobby and spend a bunch of money (chuckle). Michael

I have managed to set the shop more efficiently and have 3 guitars on the bench and almost ready for assembly. Thank you very much for everything you have thought me. Eternally grateful my friend. Ramón

I wanted to thank you again for the class I attended with you way back in July of 2021. I’ve since finished one guitar for my nephew and was in the middle of another guitar for my son-in-law when a friend asked if he could build a guitar with me. Bret

I studied with you May 2-6 this year. I am enjoying my classical guitar and it is sounding great! Ed

"I just realized it's my 1 year anniversary of my build with you and wanted to report in. This guitar (Western Red Cedar dreadnaught) continues to impress the hell out of me and I'm more excited about its tone today than I was a year ago. It sounds incredible! I've built 3 other guitars in the past year and have 2 more in the works (both about 75% done). Thanks again for your inspiration and this guitar that I love to play." Tom

Through all the Luthiers I have studied over the years You are my prime choice to start with. Hey, I'm 73 now and still going strong Dave

Thank you again for having me up to learn from you. I wanted to let you know how much it's changed the way I work--I've been able to streamline my process A LOT with how my shop is now set up, and tasks that used to take quite a while fly by and allow me to spend more time focusing on the more detailed hand work. I've also got my french polish a lot thinner and smoother, and it's producing absolutely amazing results. Joseph

Taking Robbie’s class changed my whole shop, priorities and process. Spent some money as well, but in the right direction finally. Anyone thinking whether or not to take his classes should take the plunge. Louie in Alaska

Taking Robbie’s class changed my whole shop, priorities and process. Spent some money as well, but in the right direction finally. Anyone thinking whether or not to take his classes should take the plunge. Louie in Alaska

I just finished a one-on-one Classical Guitar build with Robbie O'Brien. I had a wonderful time! His class exceeded my expectations and has given me the confidence to build another guitar on my own. The guitar looks, and more importantly sounds beautiful! I'd like to also give a shout out to LMI for providing such a great selection of high quality tone wood. I used East Indian Rosewood, Engelmann Spruce, Ebony, and Spanish Cedar. I soaked up a lot of techniques and tips from Robbie. He is a great teacher! Very knowledgeable, very organized, and very patient. Swapping stories with him was a great added bonus. I'll never forget this experience. Polly

VIRTUAL FRENCH POLISH "Foi na partilha humilde e sincera de um ser humano especial, que encontrei num outro continente, algo que repensou as metodologias e técnicas do polimento Francês Tradicional. A visão e adaptação pragmática que o Robbie nos transmite é algo que nos poupa recursos, tempo e dinheiro. Foi uma experiência única que ficará para sempre presente nos processos de acabamento em qualquer instrumento musical que faça de futuro. Muito obrigado Robbie. Um saudoso abraço de Portugal". Marco em Portugal

VIRTUAL FRENCH POLISH CLASS - The class was very useful and worth the money. I’m happy with what I got out of it and the ability to log in for refresher is a great facility. Thanks again for the class and the feedback, I appreciated them both. Foster

"Thanks again for all your help and guidance this past week with the classical guitar build as well as your hospitality. I am amazed at how much can get done in such a short period of time with a remarkable end result! The guitar looks great and as you said, it sounds better each day! My wife and children all loved the final picture you took of me holding the guitar. Ed in Wisconsin

Virtual Voicing Class - Just wanted to let you know that your steel string voicing class has been invaluable to me in understanding how to control my steel string voicing for the type of guitar I am building. I appreciate how simple and straightforward your process is. It was a pleasure being in your class and I am sure I will take another virtual class In the future. Steve

Virtual French polish - The class was excellent! I was apprehensive about how well a virtual “hands on” class would work. I wasn’t sure I would be able to see what you were demonstrating clearly but your use of multiple HD cameras made everything very clear and easy to follow. I was also concerned that in the virtual format a lot of the useful interactions between students would be lost. That was not the case at all. The format worked perfect for French Polish. A couple hours of instruction followed by several hours of homework and practice allowed me to apply what you demonstrated before the next class and get help with any problems I ran into. Thanks for a great class. Mike

Virtual French polish - Thanks again for the French polish instruction. It's going to make a world of difference for me. Jered

VIRTUAL FRENCH POLISH CLASS - Last week's session was great - really informative and enjoyable too. You made the process very easy to understand and implied that it was much more straightforward than the rather problematic and mysterious reputation it's acquired. I've spent all week putting it into practice and frankly I've been amazed at the results I've achieved - especially as a complete beginner and without one to one tuition. I've made some pieces of wood very shiny! I've no doubt that finishing an instrument will be a bit more challenging than small flat sample boards but even at this stage I feel confident enough to have a go at it. You've done such a good job with the classes and videos. Nick in the UK

VIRTUAL VOICING - Thanks again for such a great class! As a novice builder, I feel like I have a better handle on both the process and desired outcome for building steel string tops. Hopefully one of these days I'll be able to join you at your shop for a start-to-finish build class! Gavan

VIRTUAL VOICING - Thanks for putting on the class.  I have really enjoyed it and it has clarified for me that there isn't a magic formula and it's all about manipulating the variables to get to the right balance of stiffness and looseness.  It's taken a lot of the voodoo out of the process.  I have been watching your courses and videos a ton over the last 5 years and it's fun to finally get to meet you "in person".  Brian

I'm really enjoying the Voicing class. I know that the class is more aimed at intermediate and advanced builders but as a novice I've learnt a huge amount and probably shaved years off the process of developing that sensitivity to the properties of the materials we use. Nick

Thanks for teaching me all last week….it was such a great experience! It’s really cool you do those classes and are willing to teach others your methods. I learned a ton, and I’m excited to implement so many new things into my shop. As expected, the guitar has already opened up quite a bit over the last 24 hours. Hopefully I can make it back up to Colorado before too long. Thanks again for all the tips, tricks, and instruction! Joseph

After completing the OM build with you last June I spent the rest of the year converting my garage into a shop. I am so glad my wife signed me up to study under you!! You’re a tremendous teacher!! I continue to review the videos at each step and it takes a ton of stress out of it. The Tips Du Jour are excellent as well. Love the O’Brien forum as well, but will wait to post until I’m a bit more confident in what I’m doing. I might land on your doorstep at some point again and would love to take another class. Todd

Last year, I was part of the first two "virtual" classes Robbie O'Brien taught via Zoom: Soundboard voicing and French polishing. I learned a whole lot in both classes, and was extremely satisfied with the experience. I'm not financially affiliated with Robbie at all, other than the fact that I buy his courses and am a satisfied customer. He's a great teacher, and I particularly enjoyed these Zoom courses. Don

I must say after reading countless complex methods of voicing etc that your class was a fantastic eye opener. Your way of teaching is wonderful. Your way of teaching is a nicely distilled and simplified take that helped to sort through the mounds of voicing techniques. Again I cannot say how much I enjoyed your class enough. After countless online videos, articles, books and how to's on voicing, your class made it click! You are a fantastic teacher and I look forward to learning more! Have a great day and Happy making! Aaron

Fortunately for the rest of us you have made a career of teaching. Robbie's individual course is incredible. Richard

I just realized it's my 1 year anniversary of my build with you and wanted to report in. This guitar (Western Red Cedar dreadnaught) continues to impress the hell out of me and I'm more excited about its tone today than I was a year ago. It sounds incredible! I've built 3 other guitars in the past year and have 2 more in the works (both about 75% done). Thanks again for your inspiration and this guitar that I love to play. Tom

WOW! Thanks to your previous hand bending demos, I skipped getting a bending machine and instead purchased a guitar sized bending iron....and the experience has been fantastic. I have made three side assemblies so far, for three different shaped models, without mishap. Thanks for your great teaching! Chris

VIRTUAL VOICING CLASS - Without reservation, I recommend this class. Extremely valuable. I participated in the last one. It was both informative and fun! Steven

Thank you for your time, and thank you for your commitment to high quality teaching! Daniel

If anyone is interested in learning how to make an acoustic guitar - look up Robbie O'Brien. My dad and I took his class this past March and it was outstanding. Mike

If anyone is interested in learning how to make an acoustic guitar - look up Robbie O'Brien. My dad and I took his class this past March and it was outstanding. Mike

I just had time to sit with my beautiful new guitar, and boy is it ever great! I had a wonderful time this past week, it was such a pleasure and a privilege to spend this time with you and your family, to learn from the best lutherie teacher I have ever had the chance to meet, to have great chats, to share some laughter, Brazilian coffee, pão de queijo and croissants in your beautiful home and shop. I am leaving with a lot more than just a great guitar, but also with precious new knowledge, wisdom and great memories. All the best! Sylvain

Thanks again Robbie, what a great week that was. And my new guitar is simply stunning. Best to you and your lovely family. Sylvain

Thanks, again, for a great week of learning and easy conversation - not to mention a GREAT GUITAR!!! Tom

Thanks, as always, for everything! You are the reason I can make guitars and I'll be forever grateful for that! Chris

I had a great time building with Robbie O’Brien, and I highly recommend his course to anyone interested in building a guitar. Paul

Robbie makes the intimidating prospect of building a guitar a fun and rewarding process. He breaks down guitar making into simple repeatable steps. He explains and demonstrates each step in the process, and then has the student execute each step so that they can internalize the techniques themselves. Robbie’s sense of humor puts the student at ease, and his thoughtful coaching gives the student the confidence to execute each of the tasks at hand. Victor

I highly recommend anyone interested in guitar building to take a one-on-one building class with Robbie O’Brien. I’m confident that not only will you have a fun-once-in-a-lifetime experience, you will also walk away with an amazing sounding instrument that you will have a personal connection to. Victor

Wow! Five years ago building a ukulele from a kit. I’m definitely on a different level today thanks to Robbie O'Brien and his guitar building instruction and week-long building experience at his shop in Parker, Colorado. Mike

I have recently watched quite a few of your instructional videos, mostly about finishing, as that is the stage I’m at with my first acoustic guitar build. I’m realizing now that I could have made a better instrument and in less time, if Id found your site before I started. Graham

We built a guitar last year in March. I have been playing the heck out of it. It is the most fun guitar I have ever played. And the sound is wonderful. I just sent you an audio CD of some fiddle tunes I recorded on it. Mark

I just wanted to tell you how impressed I am with your body of work as a luthier and teacher. I have followed your work, your forum, tips, videos etc. It is an incredible lifetime of achievement. Dave

My wife is an adult learner specialist and she commended the other day as she overhead one of your courses, “He is an excellent instructor” I totally agree with her. Melanie

Getting pumped to finally get there and build the guitar :) I have been watching the video course to get better prepared and just wanted to say “great job” on the video. It is easy to follow along and will help a lot with future builds. Chris

I love these classes. I always learn a lot and get a great guitar in the process. Greg

Hi Robbie! Just wanted to thank you again for an amazing week of guitar building. I love my guitar and can't wait to build another one. Bret

I’m dropping you a quick line to let you know that a couple of my teacher’s classical students have seen and played my guitar, and they were very impressed. Both are considering building a guitar with you, and one of them seems pretty serious. I have to say that it’s fun to show off the guitar we built together. The guitar sounds great, and I play it most every day. Someday my playing may be worthy of it, but I’ve always been more of a builder than a player. Thanks again for a wonderful experience. Peter

I wanted to thank you again for a great experience building a fantastic guitar. Everyone who plays it is immediately impressed by its responsiveness and great sound. I learned so much, I am having trouble remembering it all. Dan

My name is Carrie. I built a guitar with you several years ago. It was a great week and I LOVED my guitar. In my last move, the guitar went “missing.” I am wondering if you have any available openings in March 2022 (or even the second half of Feb 2022) for me to take another class with you and “re-build” my FAVORITE guitar. Thank you, Carrie

Robbie, You have given me the most pleasure of my woodworking career even though I’m now 72 and am chronically unemployable. Taking tone wood to the closest thousandth of an inch still gets my motor running. Thank you so very much once again!! Dave

Thought I’d share that since my class with you in May, you definitely lit a fire. The guitar we built sounds amazing and my son loves playing it. I’ve spent the time since then finishing my bench project and am finally ready to jump into my next build. Just ordered another OM kit from LMI along with most of the specialty jigs, bending machine, plate joining, binding cutter, mold, radius dishes, go-bar, etc. I’ll fill in the rest as I build. Thank you again for a great experience and I’ll send pics of the completed guitar. Rodd

I just wanted to thank you again for your instruction, wisdom, patience and fantastic sense of humor in putting up with me for six days while building my OM. I’m still completely in awe of your teaching style and the tremendous experience in getting to work with you. The finished product is just amazing and the sound, which was incredible from the first string installed continues to get better every day! My guitar instructor came by for a lesson today and, well, I didn’t have a lesson because he couldn’t put it down (it’s a 1-hour lesson btw). I think I mentioned he’s been playing for over 50-years, used to own a music store and has toured all of the world with many jazz bands. He said it was “F@#^ing Amazing!”, one of the most playable guitars he’s ever experienced with exceptional sustain and added he would love to record with it. Thanks again!! Todd

I just wanted to thank you again for your instruction, wisdom, patience and fantastic sense of humor in putting up with me for six days while building my OM. I’m still completely in awe of your teaching style and the tremendous experience in getting to work with you. The finished product is just amazing and the sound, which was incredible from the first string installed continues to get better every day! My guitar instructor came by for a lesson today and, well, I didn’t have a lesson because he couldn’t put it down (it’s a 1-hour lesson btw). I think I mentioned he’s been playing for over 50-years, used to own a music store and has toured all of the world with many jazz bands. He said it was “F@#^ing Amazing!”, one of the most playable guitars he’s ever experienced with exceptional sustain and added he would love to record with it. Thanks again!! Todd

The guitar arrived today and it’s great. You did a superb job on the finish. Thanks for everything! Byron

Thanks again for being such a welcoming and knowledgable host - as I am sure many have told you already, you have a natural talent for teaching. Combining that with your repertoire of stories, jokes and generally good humour makes for a memorable time during the online class! I definitely learned a lot, you break it down into manageable chunks, with clear and unambiguous explanations. One can easily see that you do that already for a long time and that you have honed your presentation and teaching skills to a fine degree. Florian - Austira

I just wanted to provide some well-deserved praise to Robbie O'Brien for his virtual guitar making classes that he now offers via Zoom, and encourage anyone interested to participate in one. I have now taken two such classes: Top voicing and French polishing. I learned things in both classes that have made a huge difference for me in my building. In addition to the Zoom classes, Robbie gives you access to his pre-recorded classes that touch on the same subject, and provides ongoing access to the Zoom class recordings. I think Robbie is a great teacher. Two enthusiastic thumbs up! Thanks for all the help, Robbie. Don

Virtual French polish - "It was a great class. Probably would not have taken it if it wasn't virtual, so there are some benefits that came out of the whole pandemic. The virtual format was just like being there. It was seamless, and pretty much just like being there, with feedback, personal attention and guidance. I would definitely take another virtual class with Robbie. Thanks! Christ K

(Virtual French polish) Thanks for the class so far. I am impressed with your ability to juggle teaching, questions and camera/computer stuff all at once and keep it interesting, fun and funny. You have knack for teaching, that's for sure! Philippe in Canada

Today's class (Virtual French polish) was truly excellent! Worth the price all on its own. I now see what I was doing wrong with guitars 1-7. I'm so grateful! Don

Thank you again for an incredible week! I had an unforgettable experience and you did an amazing job. I’m so thankful for your time, your patience and your wisdom. Truly a gift! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Rodd

Soundboard Voicing Class Testimonial. "This class was amazing. As a very new Luthier I walked away with the feeling of having 20 years of trial and error, experience, and knowledge packed into my brain in just a few hours. Voicing seems to be the only step where a special jig or tool cannot replace those things. I am now very confident that I can make a beautiful sounding guitar for any style and any venue. Robbie has a special ability to pass on his processes in a way that anyone could understand. I am grateful to have discovered this curriculum.....Now on to the full Steel String Guitar build course!!!!" Matt

Virtual Voicing Class - Thanks for your guidance and advice. This was one voicing class where I could leave my calculator in its drawer. Finally, a sensible and attainable approach to guitar top voicing without complex or confusing calculations. Thomas

I want to thank Robbie for offering the virtual voicing class. The instruction was excellent and I really enjoyed myself. It gave students that are not able to attend an in person class a chance for some hands on work. David

I must thank you for the knowledge and skills I’ve learned in your Virtual Voicing class! I have studied many, many books on the subject, scoured the web and chatted to as many people as I could find on this subject. Your voicing class brought it all together in a pragmatic and logical approach. The delivery was right on target. Not only did the course afford the understanding of how to get the most out of a guitar but the skills learned transcend to building a better sounding and better built guitar. Thank you for eliminating 20 years of trial and error! Bruce

Virtual voicing class - It was a fantastic class. I highly recommend it! Christ

Thanks again for offering the Virtual voicing course online. I have done lots of training over Zoom for work and you did an amazing job! Matt

When it comes to learning how to make guitars, I have gotten more useful instruction from Robbie O'Brien's video courses (featuring Robbie, Jeff Jewitt, and a number of other instructors) than from any other source. Things just got even better, though: I participated in Robbie's first virtual class on voicing a steel string guitar top, and it was a wonderful experience. I ended up with a great sounding top, but more importantly, I have learned how to get the most out of my guitar tops. Maybe learning in person from Robbie would be better, but learning from him via Zoom was pretty awesome. Don

So grateful for this class (virtual voicing), your instruction, your talent and your willingness to share it with the world. Steve

Today I’m working on the finish. Sanded all morning and the French Polishing all afternoon. I love the quiet thought that goes into this finishing technique and am so happy to have learned it from Robbie O’Brien Allen

Thanks again for your help. The (Virtual) voicing class has been great. Don

I feel like it’s one of the best tops I’ve made. I took your online course (for this) last year or so and made a big jump in tone then, but I’m lovin the boat ramps!!! Summation. I made a better sounding top in a fraction of the time. Your the man! Thanks for doing what you do!! (Virtual voicing class) Matt

Thanks for guiding through the build. You are truly a fabulous teacher and a great guitar builder. Kevin

I'm really enjoying the (Live Virtual Voicing)class! Don

(Virtual acoustic guitar voicing class) - I am so excited to work on my top. Taking this class has jump-started my building process again. It is a wonderful next step for those who have taken the Acoustic Build class online. Elaine

You're a great teacher and your time-lapse videos of the builds are terrific. Shop dog is a star too! Seán

My son and I can’t thank you enough for the wonderful week working with you to create these elegant works of art in the form of guitars. You guided us through those areas of trepidation and put us at ease in those delicate tasks of bending sides and bindings, carving the neck and bridge, and fretwork and inlays. We also appreciate the warm reception by your family and the shop dog Duke. Yes, we came away with beautiful instruments that sound like grand pianos, but the most important takeaway was the father-son life experience in sharing our common passion of guitars. We now both have incredible heirlooms to pass on to our grandchildren (and in my case, great grandchildren). With the greatest respect, thank you with all our heart. Michael L. and Michael J. Hudkins

You did a fantastic job. The playability had gradually been deteriorating over the years and finally became clear to me that I needed to have a trusted professional (you came highly recommended) have a look at it. You've given me a brand new 61 yo guitar. It now plays better and sounds better than my recently purchased 614ce Taylor. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. I also really enjoyed my visit.

Just wanted to thank you again for an incredible week building with you. I should tell you though that this guitar is making my fingers bleed and my Martin now sounds inferior. Oh, and I'm getting a complex from all the attention via my wife's Facebook. Seriously though, it really was an incredible experience and one I intend to build upon. Thank you for what you do -- you really have a gift with teaching and making people happy. Take care and hope to cross paths in the future. Tom

Robbie, you are about so much more than being a luthier. Your classes and forum inspire people to build and create! Elaine

Best teacher ever!! Worth every penny! Alex

Thanks for being such a excellent resource for the building community!" Bill

The teacher makes all the difference. The ones you helped me build have incredible tone and others have said so as well. I’m extremely proud of them! Chuck

I built a classical guitar with you in May and brought it to the Luthiers Interactive North Texas meeting last month to show off. Well, it was a big hit. A couple of the guys couldn’t put it down. After the meeting, two of the classical pro builders pulled me aside to say we had built something special. I just wanted you to know. Thanks again. Dan

I need to tell you that I continue to be amazed at the crispness, brightness, and volume of my new guitar. I have to say that it makes my Martin 000-28 and the Andrew White sound more mellow - almost muffled. The sound when I pick a string (the attack?) is immediate and the sustain is unbelievable. It is, without a doubt, my favorite guitar to play now. If I can learn to reproduce an instrument of this quality I will be ecstatic! Thanks, again, for helping build such a beautiful guitar. It wasn't my first, but it is definitely the best I have ever built. Tom

By far the best experience I’ve had in years! Diego

After playing the heck out of this thing for three weeks, I only have one complaint. WHY DID IT TAKE ME SO LONG TO FIND YOU? ;-) I remain supremely pleased with the outcome - and can't thank you enough for your excellent work on my beloved axe. Tom

I have wanted to learn more about French polishing for a long time. Your presentation and working with me has raised my finishing skills by so much, thanks for sharing your skills with us. Jim

The guitar my dad built with you really sounds amazing, better than the Martin D15 or Taylor 314CE we have. The level of clarity the mids and highs have is really unmatched to anything else I’ve ever played. It’ll be the main studio recording guitar for years to come. Thanks for having us and giving us the opportunity to create such an amazing instrument! Nathan

Thanks again! Nathan has been playing nonstop since we’ve been back to the hotel. Awesome guitar! I hope to be back before too long for another set of lessons. You’re an awesome teacher, and your knowledge, experience and confidence, are very impressive. Chuck

You are one of the best teachers and communicators out there without doubt. Francisco - Spain

You’re a superhero! Thanks for all the great YouTube videos, your website, courses, GAL interviews and articles, etc… you’re awesome! Bryan

I want to thank you for an amazing week. The guitar built with you over that 6 day period exceeded my expectations. This class was the fulfillment of a desire to put my 2 favorite hobbies together - guitar and woodworking. The guitar looks and sounds fantastic. After playing it when I got home, it felt like an old friend already! I already can’t wait for the OM build next year. Jon

Robbie, you are an awesome teacher and luthier. I have learned so much from you In a few visits. Dana

Robbie O’Brien, you are the most unbelievably energetic and comprehensive teacher in the entire History of lutherie. You are an incomparable source of craft wisdom and know-how. Thank you for being alive on Earth and doing what you do! Stephen

Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I woke up early and spent a good hour and a half playing on my new guitar. It responds so well to my touch. Diego

Robbie, thank you for your help Sir. You made all the difference in the world. You kept me from making mistakes and helped me around the ones I made. You are a great teacher and I sincerely appreciate your help. Barry

Brazilian Rosewood guitar built at Robbie O'Brien's shop . Hasn't left my side. Left all the rest behind Zef

Had a great time at your workshop, and I learned a LOT. In fact, I learned as much from the off-topic discussions as I did from the course material. I also appreciate the hospitality you and your wife showed us! Thanks, again! Marty

Robbie, thank you for the excellent classes the past several days. I leave them both with more than I had hoped for, both knowledge and experience. Not only did I learn your French polish technique, but SO much more! Thank you. Randy

Just want to say that in the first three hours of the Steel String Voicing masterclass today, I feel like years have been taken off my learning curve! Thank you! RandyJ

I like your common sense approach to guitar building and that you don’t take things too seriously, it has really helped me. There’s a lot of hype and BS out there... you teachings are practical and concise. Bruce

I remember this and how amazed I was by the efficiency of it all, without ever feeling rushed. Thanks for the memories. The guitar I built there is still my favorite. Unfortunately it is still better than the ones I have made subsequently. Still practicing! Allen

I had been trying to find an opportunity to take this class for years, but it was always full. This time when he announced a cancellation, I jumped on it. I strongly recommend to anyone who is considering taking a class to do so now. Dan

I just finished building a classical guitar with Robert O’Brien today. It is difficult to tell just how thrilled I am with the result. Robert is an absolute joy to work with. He is both entertaining and professional at all times. Dan

What a unique experience it is to finish a course with Robbie and always take home a fine guitar. Richard

Your teachings have given us the ability to give voice to a tree. That voice then is able to express emotion without words. Our guitars radiate love, life, memories and healing frequency that everyone around can benefit from. Your teachings are priceless, and we luthier students are grateful. Abe

You're a really good teacher. I was fortunate to have good shop teachers in K-12. You're right up there with the best. Fred

I hope you remember me from a number of years ago when I studied classical guitar making with you. I owe you many thanks for all the things you showed me especially for showing me how to to things by hand and with out a bunch of fancy jigs and tools. I can’t help but think about you every time I’m in my shop building guitars and I’m always grateful for all the nice tricks you showed me. Bryan

I recently took a class with O'Brien Guitars. A one on one build for an OM cutaway with his simplified French polish finish. I can't say enough good things about my experience. Robbie was very knowledgeable and I learned some good tips/tricks for my future builds, his modified french polish was very simple at least in person. I imagine it will take me a few guitars of doing it on my own to master it but it certainly took most of the complexity out of a French polish finish. P.s I couldn't wait for the opportunity to say just a skosh lol David

I can’t say enough good things about Robbie’s class David

I attended Robbie’s class this December and couldn’t be more pleased with the experience and the outcome. We started with a box of beautiful materials from LMI and 6 days later I walked out with an outstanding OM steel string acoustic guitar. The class moved right along but not so fast that I did not have time to soak up lots of knowledge and new skills. Whether you are a musician looking for a custom guitar that fills all your wishes or a seasoned builder wanting to learn more, Robert’s class delivers. I highly recommend his class and look forward to working with him in the future. Dave

Building a guitar With Robbie is an exhilarating experience. One feels comfortable from minute one, as he shows you his straightforward, methodical approach. He is extremely patient and never gives the apprentice a hard time. Pedro - Brazil

Just a note to let you know how much I'm enjoying the guitar - getting better and better and a joy to play...and how much I enjoyed our build - I learned a ton...thank you! Will

I want to thank you for an amazing week. The guitar built with you over that 6 day period exceeded my expectations. This class was the fulfillment of a desire to put my 2 favorite hobbies together - guitar and woodworking. The guitar looks and sounds fantastic. After playing it when I got home, it felt like an old friend already! Jon

I can't imagine anyone being more qualified to instruct in the field of Lutherie. You definitely have a talent for keeping things interesting. Roger

I built a guitar with Robbie a couple of years ago, and it is fabulous and getting better all the time. Robbie is great and his instruction is the best. Jeff

I built a guitar with you in November of 2017, and I imagine that you have so many students and meet so many people that it is unlikely you remember me, but I wanted to let you know that my steel string guitar is sounding better and better as time passes. My guitar teacher says it is one of the best sounding guitars he has ever heard and he is not prone to hyperbole. Also, I sing your ( and your school’s) praises whenever anyone asks me about the guitar. You never know, you might get a new student out of it. Take care. Jerry

Both the voicing and French polishing classes were great -- lots of new information and skills to work on. It was well worth the time, travel, and expense. And thanks to your family for their hospitality. Stephen

You're a terrific teacher on-line. I can only imagine what it's like to be in your shop. Alex - Brazil

If you really want to understand traditional flamenco guitar building Paco’s course is a must. And with Paco and Robbie you get two genius instructors for the price of one and a hand built true flamenco guitar as well. What an extraordinary and fun experience. Thanks again Paco and Robbie. Richard

The quality of your work and training is really superb! Sean - United Kingdom

You have caused a dilemma with me. I am being 100% honest when I say the playability and cutaway make this the guitar I want to play every day. I love the sound. I think the French polish and redwood give it a pleasing tone and of course everything else that goes into it. It's easier to play then my Hauser. Jon in Pennsylvania

I took the Classical voicing course in June. The best guitar related money I've spent. Chris

Robbie’s teaching style is stellar. He is clear and concise about the tasks we needed to perform. He is as easy going as can be but kept the class progressing as needed. I felt as a welcome guest in his home/shop and Adrianna’s hospitality made me feel part of the family. And I even got a cool hat out of the deal! I highly recommend taking this class to anyone who needs to learn or improve their top building/voicing skills John

I just had one of the best two days of my guitar building experience! While I have built over fifteen tops so far, I was always “guestimating” the sound and flexibility I was looking for. Being with Robbie and the other students helped me to develop an ear for the sound I was going for and a feel for the flexibility I was after. While I knew about putting a top together, hearing and feeling the progress of getting the top to where I wanted was just what I needed. In addition, the table talk about other aspects of guitar building, the questions/comments from the other students and Robbie’s answers, as well as the extra comments from Robbie about other aspects of guitar building was worth twice as much as I paid for the class. Robbie’s teaching style is stellar. He is clear and concise about the tasks we needed to perform. He is as easy going as can be but kept the class progressing as needed. I felt as a welcome guest in his home/shop and Adrianna’s hospitality made me feel pa John

I can't say enough how much I enjoyed the steel string voicing class yesterday and today, and how much I learned from it. Peter

A shout to Robbie O'Brien and O'Brien guitars. I just showed my guitar off to 2 friends, both magnificently skilled musicians. The reviews were SO positive and they both thought it looked and sounded amazing. Thanks again Robbie for your guidance and patience. Bruce

When someone, such as yourself, is a grand master of their craft they often can’t relate to the complete novice. That is definitely not true for you. Your teaching is exceptional and you have the rare talent of being able to convey complex and intricate procedures in a concise, friendly, easily understood and often amusing way. Alan

My guitar looks, feels, and sounds great. It is definitely the nicest sounding guitar I have ever played. I am looking forward to making at least two more, one for each son. John

“I have spent many hours with Robert O'Brien and other Luthiers that offer lessons/classes. I have learned the most, and feel (by far) the most confident with Robert O’Brien. The primary reasons are clarity of lessons, presentation and variety of topics.”

“Robbie is so accessible. I'm lucky as he's in Colorado and I've gone to his shop a few times, but he's always there via email, phone etc. And no matter what idiot thing I've done, he doesn't ever make me think he thinks I'm an idiot. Superb teacher!

“I think O’Brien Guitars hits the best balance of price, accessibility,breadth of offerings, quality of instruction and production out there.”

Robbie, Thank you so much for everything. This was such a wonderful week for me. I really enjoyed drinking from the fire hose of your guitar knowledge. I've had a hard time just getting off my ass and building a guitar and this class was such an effective way to push myself to do that. I suspect I could have learned much of this on my own--by building a couple dozen guitars--but I feel like you have given me a shortcut to competency as a builder. I would recommend his class for anyone that can take it. It really was such an effective way to get my feet wet. I hope to build a classical some time with you too. Martin in San Diego

This has been an awesome week for me! It has been a great deal of fun building this guitar with Robbie and I've been learning a great deal. I am shocked at how quickly the guitar came together. I have a few years of experience building furniture (though as a hobby; I make about 3 pieces per year) but this is my very first guitar. Martin in San Diego

Your teaching skills are top notch and you obviously put the effort into melding with the students you are presented with. You made us feel very comfortable and we had the best time working with you and being welcomed by your family. The kicker is our wonderful guitars we brought home. I haven't, and don't expect to find a better sounding classical than the one I made with you. Dave and Lisa