04/05/2025
Public Notice regarding Lord of the Strings instrument making, repair and luthier school.
In 1995 we moved from the projects of the Bronx and found a home at 490 Main Street in Beacon. It was my first year of high school and I discovered an intense passion for guitar playing, which soon morphed into guitar setup/repair. I quickly took to the beauty of the town. I found myself drawn to the mountain, and would go up almost daily... back then you'd have it to yourself, sometimes even on a weekend! Later I took a job at IBM which was a very important phase in my development. At that time I also apprenticed with an old German master in Wappingers for violin making because it was very clear to me I wanted to make and repair instruments for the rest of my life indefinitely.
In 2013, after a few years working out of my studio and eating a lot of saw dust, I opened Lord of the Strings with a bench, a dream, and way too much glue on my hands. Literally 1000+ customers later and 12 years down the road, I’m reflecting on what an incredible journey it’s been there in Beacon.
This little shop became more than just a place to get your instrument repaired—it became a space for connection, creativity, and community. There I've made many meaningful and deep connections with people. Over the years, I had the honor of working with many people, on their guitars (acoustic and electric), basses, violins, violas, cellos, ukes, banjos, you name it and more. Not to mention my special connection with the latin music community for cuatros, and the Middle-Eastern community for ouds.
Together, we brought instruments back to life, gave new ones their first voice, and shared countless stories, laughs, and lessons. It’s been an absolute privilege to serve this community through the sacred craft of luthiery—what I half-jokingly, half-seriously call God’s work. Because honestly, there's something divine about making things that sing.
The space at 8 South Chestnut was a kind of labor room for birthing instruments. Many beautiful musical objects were made there, some with students wanting to take a stab at the luthiery dream.
Now, it’s time for a new chapter: Lord of the Strings is relocating to North Carolina. It’s bittersweet to leave the space that saw so many instruments, memories, and friendships formed—but I’m deeply grateful for everyone who trusted me with their beloved instruments over the years.
And to those of you who came in just to talk… and talk… and talk—even though your guitar didn’t need a single thing—I appreciate you too. Just know that somewhere in your future, a high E string will be slightly sharp, and you’ll feel my vengeance. 😉
On another note, for those interested in taking the instrument making course for classical guitar, ouds, Puerto Rican cuatro), the shop in Lexington, North Carolina will have a designated accommodation 1 bedroom apartment conveniently located about the workshop.
For those wanting to make electric guitars, bases, Cuban tres and more, instructor Tony Velez will conduct those workshops in Walden, New York.
For more info visit regarding instrument making courses please visit: www.heritageluthierschool.com
I want to give a sincere heartfelt thanks to all those that supported me and made my dream come true. Feel free to stay in touch and I love you all!
Thanks,
John Vergara
Luthier CoursesDiscover the Magic of Instrument MakingOur instrument-making workshops are geared to helping you achieve your dreams/goals, regardless of your prior experience. Led by seasoned luthiers, the workshops cover all aspects of construction, repairs, setups and everything from A to Z. Enrol...
