"I was trained by European masters in a trade school in Croatia for three years. The school specialized in all stringed instruments. I then studied in Vienna in a school which specialized in orchestral stringed instruments including piano. Upon coming to Canada, I opened my own company, Lado Musical Inc. in 1973. After being in the business for 30 years, I have experienced woning and operating a guitar manufacturing facility, as well as a retail and repair business. Lado Musical Inc. has been successful in creating custom fretted instruments of all types - acoustic, classical, electric and bass guitars - for the past 30 years and has been the choice of several high profile musicians."

" Recently a situation came about that started me thinking about opening this school. Two new trainees joined me as employees after being trained by two different Lutherie Schools. They felt that their training made them experienced and capable craftspeople. But when put to the test, they realized the training they received did not provide them with the knowledge or capability to work in an environment when finely carfted instruments were built. They were disappointed in the education they had received and at that point, it became clear to me that the future of the trade was in jeopardy and I had to do something to see that the craft did not disappear."

"People who have a creative passion for producing fine quality instruments are few and far between. The trade needs to be passed along to the future generation and I would like to share my knowledge and experience with today's young people and train them in the mastery of guitar building.

"The Lado Lutherie school is a school of the arts. A school in which the curriculum is structured around art and creativity. Through master instruction and 'hands on learning', you will leave with a feeling of pride and accomplishment."

A legacy is being passed along. If you have the dream to become a master guitar builder, we have the ability to help you fulfil your dreams."

To receive further information or to register for the course:

Joe Lado Sr. ~ Phone 705-328-2005

E-mail