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In the heart of Paraguay, in the city of Luque, an educational project is transforming the way children and young people engage with music and craftsmanship. The Borja Lutherie Workshop School is an initiative that not only teaches how to build instruments but also preserves an invaluable cultural heritage. Luz Borja, luthier and educator, shares how this school was born and the impact it has had on the community. Along this journey, the school has benefited from the collaboration of Maderas Barber, which has provided high-quality materials for the students.
Maderas Barber collaborates with schools and workshops and also promotes initiatives that bring lutherie to more people, ensuring this tradition reaches new generations.
The origin of an educational dream
The idea of teaching lutherie to children and teenagers arose with a clear purpose: to protect the artisanal tradition of guitar making and pass on its value to future generations. "We want children to understand the importance of handmade craftsmanship, to feel the history and effort behind each instrument," explains Luz.
However, access to musical instruments remains a challenge. For many families, basic education, food, and clothing are priorities, making it difficult to afford an instrument. "Despite economic hardships, children and young people feel a deep desire to connect with music. We want to give them the opportunity to do so with their own hands," says Luz with conviction.
The teaching process: from wood to music
The guitar-making course follows a structured curriculum that covers everything from the history of the guitar to the finishing of each piece. Students learn to identify the parts of the instrument, interpret plans, use tools, and work with different types of wood.
"We are thrilled to see how children immerse themselves in the entire process, from selecting the wood to the final varnishing. Each guitar they build is a reflection of their effort and dedication," says Luz.
The program includes courses such as Lutherie Kid, where the youngest students build a ukulele in three months, and six-month workshops aimed at teenagers and harpists.
Challenges in the workshop
Like any artisanal project, challenges are part of the journey. One of the main obstacles is the availability of raw materials, as well as Paraguay’s intense heat, which makes working conditions more demanding without air-conditioned classrooms. "The limited space in the workshop forces us to work in groups, which restricts simultaneous production. But we have learned to optimize every resource and share knowledge efficiently," Luz explains.
When children complete their first guitar, the emotion is indescribable. "We have seen kids overcome shyness, loneliness, and even bullying thanks to this project. Transforming a piece of wood into an instrument sparks a special light in them—a deep connection with creativity and music," she says with pride.
The importance of wood and collaboration with Maderas Barber
Wood is the soul of every guitar. "Each piece has a unique personality, and it is essential to treat it with respect and passion," says Luz. In previous projects, Paraguayan cedar has been used for the soundbox, European spruce for the soundboard, and ebony, guayacán, or Paraguayan incense wood for the fingerboard.
When the school received wood from Maderas Barber, the impact was immediate. "We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the materials. In Paraguay, we do not have access to this level of excellence, and working with these woods has been an enriching experience for our students," says Luz.
Future plans and how to support the cause
The future of the project is focused on expansion. "We want more children and young people to have access to lutherie training. Luque is the heart of guitar and harp making in Paraguay, and we wish to continue strengthening this tradition," says Luz.
To achieve this, the school needs better infrastructure and access to more raw materials. "In 2024, we managed to hold an important workshop thanks to the support of Maderas Barber, but there is still much to be done," she adds.
Those who wish to support the Borja Lutherie Workshop School can contact Luz Borja to explore different ways to contribute to this initiative.
A message for future luthiers and educators
"It is essential to keep the legacy of instrument making alive. Teaching lutherie not only preserves ancestral knowledge but also offers children a unique connection to music and their identity as creators," reflects Luz.
Seeing children build and play their own guitars is the ultimate proof that the art of lutherie can change lives. "When a child plays the first note on an instrument, they made themselves, something inside them changes forever. And that is the true power of music and craftsmanship," Luz concludes with a smile.
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