An incredible evening full of music, joy and thought provoking discussion!

The event was completely sold out and the space was crammed full of good folk! In the first half the luthiers, surrounded by their instruments, discussed the current state of what it is to be an instrument maker, this included not only the methods we use, but also how we make it possible and most importantly enjoyable!

Each luthier that night presented different approaches to instrument making as craft and as a job. The public, many for the first time, heard luthiers talk about their education, funding/income, employment/apprentaships, social media and aims to be more thoughtful of the environment.

One thing the public love to know is how instruments are made and from what they are made of! So methods and materials were discussed well. During this the use of local materials was emphasised in hopes to educate the public in a the direction that we aim to go. An intriguing and important subject for the night that challenged some strongly held ‘traditions’ in the trade, in particular ones that demand the use of exotic hardwoods. Although we agree, as young luthiers of the modern day, that a direction for more thoughtful musical tradition is a better one for the earth and its future as a healthy place for us all to live.

The luthiers finished the first half by playing upon the instruments that they had made. They performed folk/traditional music as it is through this music that the luthiers have stayed so connected with one another.

Cheryl Swoboda then gave a performance for the second half, which was on her viola which I made! I began by presenting the viola to the public, to tell of its inspiration and creation. I then introduced Cheryl along with a great big thank you for her presents that evening and her support in owning/playing one of my instruments.

The evening had a donations bar and raffle where all profits went to Gaza Birds Singing, a foundation in Gaza teaching children and young adults music. Gaza Birds Singing helps children make music and give them some peace amongst the destruction of their homes. We raised £100.

Thank you to Martin, Carly and Sol for hosting us in their lovely space and to everyone that attended and donated, I will be organising a second event like this to happen in 2026, in Sheffield.

Victor E Camilleri