From languages to luthiery (& teaching PE) – a personal journey

Devon-based professional luthier, Shaun Newman documents his career path to date and the various twists and turns encountered along the way 

When I started grammar school, I was told I was destined to be a linguist. However, I was keen to pursue sciences, particularly physics, and had a passion for making things. Unfortunately, both physics and woodwork were removed from my list of subjects!

Shaun Newman in his workshop

Changing direction

35 years ago, my life took an unexpected turn when I was severely injured by falling masonry, leaving me with two badly damaged legs and significantly reduced mobility. Faced with this new reality, I had to decide what was next. I chose to leave my teaching career, step into the field of youth employment, and begin making guitars. Rather than dwelling on what I could no longer do, I focused on what I still could – and I’m glad to say I took the latter path. With a self-taught background in guitar playing and some woodworking skills, I decided to pursue guitar making. Early on, I picked up a book about the craft. The very first line read: “If you think you are going to make a living making guitars, stop reading now!” Not exactly encouraging…But as Henry Ford wisely said: “If you think you can, or if you think you can’t, you’re right.” That philosophy has kept me moving forward ever since.

Three baroque-style guitars made during ‘lockdown’

The turning point came at a friend’s birthday party when I heard a professional guitarist perform. After mentioning that I’d made three guitars – one for each of my kids – he asked if he could try them. After playing all three, he looked up at me, almost in a trance, and said with a wry smile, “Do you realise just how good these are?” Naturally, I had no idea. I’ve always considered myself an average guitar player, especially compared to so many talented musicians out there. As a result, he asked me to make him a guitar, and since then, I’ve received six more commissions – so I suppose I must be doing something right!

That guitarist was David Cottam, a well-known performer, composer and teacher. He introduced my guitars to many of his students, several of whom ended up purchasing one. From there, doors began to open. After turning 70, I decided to reach out to some top players, including John Mills, Peter Nuttall, Raymond Burley, and others. Shortly afterwards, I received an invitation from Graham Anthony Devine to exhibit my guitars at the Royal Greenwich International Guitar Festival.

A Gothic harp

The right attitude

Throughout my journey, I’ve continually challenged myself by taking on diverse and unique commissions, including harps, mandolins, medieval fiddles, and a variety of other early instruments, as well as ukuleles and, of course, classical guitars. During lockdown, I decided to cross one item off my bucket list by making a baroque guitar, examples of which are shown below left. Since then, I’ve crafted five of them in total – and can confidently say they’re a true test of skill and patience.

The reason I share this story is to highlight the importance of attitude when it comes to finding success and fulfilment in life. Growth comes from taking on challenges, facing them head-on, and emerging stronger on the other side.And what better way to do so than by creating instruments that will last a lifetime and beyond, all while working with one of the most beautiful materials on the planet: wood.

Copy of a lyre modelled on one found in the famous Sutton Hoo burial ship

FURTHER INFORMATION

Shaun’s workshop is in Crediton, Mid-Devon. He welcomes visitors and is happy to talk through any special requirements. Purchasing a musical instrument is a big step, which heavily relies on personal judgement. His prices range from £2,200-£3,800 for guitars – flamenco, classical and parlour – and between £800-£2,000 for most other instruments.

In Shaun’s view, it’s important for the customer and instrument maker to discuss requirements at each step of the journey. Wherever possible, it’s advisable for the customer to visit regularly in order to observe the construction process. 

If you have a question for Shaun and would like to know more about his career as a professional luthier, call 01363  774 416, email shaunnewman27@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.shaunnewmanguitars.co.uk