“I was an enthusiast guitar lover and hobby guitar player, but I didn’t know much about guitar making and repair. DJ’s Guitar Repair program opened a new world for me and laid a strong foundation for my progress to open my own workshop in the future.
DJ is a very skilled and experienced luthier, his workshop repaired all kind of stringed instruments. He is also an excellent teacher, patient and caring. His explanations are clear and and straight to the point. Beyond all the basics of electric and acoustic guitar setup, the most common repairs and modifications I was able to participate in some rather unusual modifications and repairs as his apprentice.
I highly recommend his classes to all enthusiast guitar lovers wanting to take a good care of their instruments, making maintenance, repair and modding on them, as well to all people planning to start their own luthier workshop.”
~ Ivan Imhof – April 2015
“I spent the beginning of 2019 taking DJ’s guitar repair school and can’t express how much I enjoyed and got out of the classes. Not everyone that “can do”, can also teach, and DJ has that rare ability to do both.
I highly recommend this course for anybody that is looking to be able to work on their own instruments or taking it to the next level and opening up their own repair business, you won’t regret it.”
~ Kevin Walsh – June 2019
“If you are considering a career as a luthier, or want to learn how to take care of your own instrument collection, I highly recommend DJ’s Guitar Repair program. DJ is a knowledgeable and patient instructor, with a profound knowledge of both Acoustic and Electric instruments. As a working shop, your lessons will be complemented with examples of common (and fascinating “not so common”) repairs that DJ himself faces on a weekly basis. As importantly for those considering a career change, DJ offers helpful advice on tradecraft, and how to operate your business with the highest of ethical standards.”
~Kirby Francis – November 2017
Francis Guitar Repair
“I have known DJ for awhile now, taking my guitars to him for various repairs and maintenance, but I started his course a few months ago and absolutely love it! It’s so great to learn to do this myself, the right way, from someone with so much experience.”
~ Jay Kustka
“DJ’s guitar repair course is top notch. Since my objective was to have my own shop, I researched as many schools as I could before deciding on the Parsons school. Since I’ve graduated I’ve opened my own guitar repair business, and I could’t be happier. DJ not only teaches the technique and know-how to repair guitars, but he also shares real world examples when dealing with customers, and the day to day experience of running a successful shop.”
~ Gary Taft ~ June 2019
Tafty’s Home For Wayward Guitars
“I will “+1” everything Kirby Francis mentioned in his five star review of DJ Parsons Repair School – it was my experience too in going through the curriculum.
DJ is willing to share his wealth of knowledge about acoustic and electric stringed instruments, as well as his experiences in dealing with both customers and suppliers. His recommendations on which tools to acquire to do a specific job can save you time and money.
DJ’s course is a great way to start your career off if that is your goal. Make sure to check out his list of covered subjects.
I would rank DJ’s presentation and teaching style right up there with any of them. His little tips and tricks given in a shop setting where you try and apply them immediately is an excellent way to learn to do things the right way.
DJ is also a great person to talk about guitars. His love of the instrument shines through and I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations.
Summation: Parsons Repair School offers a good deal on many different levels. Highly recommended.”
~ Mark Dmohowski-June 2019
“Dj is the best teacher you can ask for. I’ve been going to Mr. DJ’s school for 6 months now. It is the best hands on experience and knowledge you will ever get when it comes to guitar repair. The curriculum is amazing and some days you’ll get a gift of working on guitar you wouldn’t imagine ever having a chance to hold or even own. 70’s d28 martins, rare Gibson’s, old guilds and many more. Best teacher I could ask for.”
~ Brandon Collins – 2021
“I don’t have a background in woodworking, electronics or any sort of craft based work. I would only consider myself a mediocre musician as well. I only had a curiosity of how things work and a love for the guitar. DJ’s course provided me with a platform to not only perform basic guitar maintenance, but more complex work that I would have never taken on myself. I am not joking by saying that this course opened a door to an art that I have heard over and over again from so many musicians new and seasoned as a mystery. Making a guitar play well that someone either has been so frustrated with or thought that it would never play again. Whether it’s restoring a family heirloom, building a custom nut, resetting a bridge, rewiring or replacing pickups, dealing with a fussy truss rod and regretting. The skills I learned with DJ’s patience opened the door to not only caring for my own guitars, but the equipment of others who have been more than satisfied. It has given me the confidence to work on and restore mandolins, banjos as well as amplifiers and pedals. I really didn’t know how to correctly do any of this work before I started and now I have the skill and confidence to do good work that is so valued by those who love stringed instruments. Thank you DJ!! Larry”
~ Larry Jordan – 2021
“I took DJ’s Guitar Repair course a couple of years ago when he was based outside of the Boston, MA area. If you love guitars and stringed instruments I do not think you could ask for a better instructor. His recommendations based on experience on what repair/setup methods, tools, and supplies to use on certain projects, as well as how to organize and setup your shop in the most efficient way are well worth the tuition. Even if you have performed some of the work covered by the course before, you are sure to come away with a different and likely better viewpoint on how to approach certain repairs. During the course I worked on the setups of a Takamine classical nylon string and a Rutters custom electric 6-string. Did a total refret of a Martin 000-15S with larger than stock EVO gold frets with the associated nut and saddle work. Wired a complete drop-in Strat pickguard with pickups and pots. Covered how to best install an acoustic pickup. Worked with hide glue. If you can think of a job DJ likely has a method to address it. I also found DJ’s knowledge of luthiery and the people in the field – both builders and repair people – to be extensive. Very enjoyable to listen to his history – from education and training to how he deals with and treats his customers so that they are satisfied with his work. DJ communicates well and was always in the shop at my scheduled arrival. No wasted time or unexplained absences. You get it all at the PGR School: Hands-on training, Experienced-based recommendations and advice, and to top it off good guitar talk and exposure to some great instruments. Thanks DJ.””I took DJ’s Guitar Repair course a couple of years ago when he was based outside of the Boston, MA area. If you love guitars and stringed instruments I do not think you could ask for a better instructor. His recommendations based on experience on what repair/setup methods, tools, and supplies to use on certain projects, as well as how to organize and setup your shop in the most efficient way are well worth the tuition. Even if you have performed some of the work covered by the course before, you are sure to come away with a different and likely better viewpoint on how to approach certain repairs. During the course I worked on the setups of a Takamine classical nylon string and a Rutters custom electric 6-string. Did a total refret of a Martin 000-15S with larger than stock EVO gold frets with the associated nut and saddle work. Wired a complete drop-in Strat pickguard with pickups and pots. Covered how to best install an acoustic pickup. Worked with hide glue. If you can think of a job DJ likely has a method to address it. I also found DJ’s knowledge of luthiery and the people in the field – both builders and repair people – to be extensive. Very enjoyable to listen to his history – from education and training to how he deals with and treats his customers so that they are satisfied with his work. DJ communicates well and was always in the shop at my scheduled arrival. No wasted time or unexplained absences. You get it all at the PGR School: Hands-on training, Experienced-based recommendations and advice, and to top it off good guitar talk and exposure to some great instruments. Thanks DJ.”
~ Mark Demo – 2021
“DJ Parsons has a unique concept- teaching guitar players how to repair and improve their guitars through one-on-one instruction. I took his course and found it invaluable. Now I can save money and time by performing my own repairs and adjustments on my electrics and acoustics. DJ, an experienced Master Luthier, taught me how to do setups, wiring, fretwork, pickup replacements, soldering and much, much more. He is a personable guy with a dry sense of humor and a passion for stringed instruments who takes a keen interest in what his students want to learn. He will customize his course to cover what you want to learn in addition to the basics. I highly recommend DJ Parsons’ Guitar Repair and School for anyone who wants to learn more about their guitars.”
~ Brad Hudson – 2021
“I just completed the guitar repair certification at the Parson’s School, and have really enjoyed it. DJ makes sure that you get real hands-on experience with many different repair operations on both acoustic and electric guitars. There has been opportunity to work on several of my own project guitars and DJ has done a great job of guiding me on those repairs. Every week he seems to have an interesting old instrument that has come in, and examining each of those has added a lot to my learning. I highly recommend the school.”
~ Alan Mapes – 2021
“Really enjoyed the course. I can now well control the stability, tonal quality, reliability and playability of my guitars. Comprehensive instrument set up, bone nut and bridge fabrication/installation acoustic pickup installation and electric guitar assembly, fret replacement, wiring, as well as other skills, were taught in the course. My guitars have never sounded better and I now have a solid appreciation for guitar construction and sound generation. Some of the graduates pursue lutherie as a profession (I follow a few) and many, like myself, take the course to be better band mates and have more fun playing with higher performing instruments. Regardless of goal, highly recommend DJ’s course for anyone interested in guitar maintenance and construction.”
~ Jay Bergeron – 2021
“DJ’s attention to detail and methodical approach to guitar maintenance and repair is phenomenal. His setup checklist hangs prominently over my workbench. Great teacher and mentor.”
~ Jose Martinez – 2022
“DJ…. What can I say. He’s an incredibly knowledgeable luthier that’s come across everything you can in the guitar repair industry. I learned everything I needed to know to start my own business as a guitar tech. From the repairs to business knowledge. I drove 2 hours each way and paid for the course. I would have gladly driven and paid double. He needs to offer a second course. Great guy and mentor.”
~ Devon “Madd luthier” Kraszewski – 2022
“I graduated from DJ’s course in June of 2019. I’ve since gone on to open my own successful guitar repair shop. DJ’s course is top notch. He not only teaches the techniques and know-how to repair guitars, but he also shares real world examples when dealing with customers. He also instructs you on the day to day experience of running a successful shop.”
~ Tafty Guitars – 2022
“Having just completed DJ’s coursework, I am pleased to say it was an invaluable source of guidance in learning how to properly repair and set up musical instruments. Finding the right teacher is often a difficult task, and I can say without hesitation that DJ made me look forward to my classes every week. I was exposed to many challenging repairs on top of the basic instruction, and DJ always answered questions very quickly when I encountered something new in my homework. He also was very accommodating with my schedule, as my kids often had to accompany me to classes, but they always looked forward to the trip. Enjoy the process, it flies by!”
~ Mark Frederick – 2022
“I thoroughly enjoyed the course. DJ is a gracious and knowledgeable instructor. The workshop is a comfortable, well-equipped space and the course is 99% hands-on. I broadened my knowledge of guitar tech/set up while completing some nice upgrades on my own instruments. Time and money well spent. If DJ ever offers a “Parsons Grad School” I’ll be there!”
~ K Mac – 2022
“This school is great if you want to obtain a firm knowledge of guitar repair weather it’s for your own instruments or if you want to start your own repair shop. With DJ’s guidance backed by his many years of experience you won’t believe the quality of work you can do. The confidence and satisfaction you get from this class will make you want to keep coming back. This has truly been one of the best experiences of my life!”
~ Cory Streeter – 2022
“DJ’s Guitar Repair and Luthier Course really helped me as I seek to begin a new career as a luthier. I took the compressed/accelerated timeline course, and DJ was patient and engaging, it really helped to have practical examples from his repair work to look at and fix. DJ communicates really well, and I learned so much, I highly recommend it. Knowing that he will be there to help offer advice (both on guitars and running a business) well after the course has completed has really helped give me the confidence to begin my new career as a luthier.”
~ Keenan Vaughn – 2022
“If you are interested in guitar repair here is a chance to learn from a Galloup trained Master Luthier. The instruction is one to one and hands on. The full course covers everything from setup to full refret and most everything in between. We all go into this at different skill levels. I had some prior experience but quickly learned that there were other (And many times better) ways to do what I thought I knew. DJ is a great teacher and intuitively senses what skill level you are at and adjusts the course a bit to accommodate. Often we strayed from the established course to work on a unique or tricky repair he was doing. As a student and then graduate I have cut dozens of nuts and saddles (All from scratch using bone blanks), Rel-glued bridges, installed endpin jacks, acoustic and electric pickups custom wiring, over a dozen re-frets and repaired loose necks. I even got to remove and replace the entire back of an acoustic that was older than I am! After graduation I found that Don was always available to give advise (Or lend a tool) for a repair or project I’m into. I’ve networked with some former Parsons students, some who now run their own repair business and build beautiful guitars and all credit Don as being an important part of their journey. I plan on retiring from the medical field in a couple years and start a small repair business and would not have had the confidence to do it if not for Don. Bottom line, this course at minimum gives you the ability to never need a “Guitar tech” again. You will have the skills to be your own. It’s also a good springboard into the repair business if you inclined to follow that path.”
~ William Elliott – 2022
“I really enjoyed DJs guitar tech course, and I learned a lot in a short period of time! I would recommend this course to anyone who is looking to learn how to maintain their own, or find opportunities to refurbish used instruments! DJ is a very good teacher and his lessons are in a comfortable setting. It is important to prepare to buy your own tools and create a home workspace if you want to get the most out of this class. I recommend doing this one step at a time (following DJs instruction) instead of getting everything at once. Thanks for the great experience DJ, I will be using these new skills for years to come!”
~ Richard Klockowski – 2022
“DJ is a great guitar repair instructor. I enjoyed having him there in person to guide me through the course and provide valuable feedback on how it was going. I also had the chance to see one of the acoustic guitars he built during my time in the course. It was a work of art.”
~ Paul K – 2022
“If you want to have access to extensive guitar repair knowledge, hands on practice using specialized tools, practical tips & trade secrets, and a clean, comfortable work shop, then Parson’s Guitar Repair is a great option. DJ creates a good learning atmosphere, but you have to put in the practice. If you do, then you will exit the program with guitar repair confidence and capability. Time well spent!”
~ Ron Bath – 2022
“I decided to take DJ’s accelerated 2 week course and just completed it. First thing I’ll say is he has his lessons down pat! Every minute was utilized efficiently. He went over common procedures in a clear way. The program was structured in a way that simulated a busy repair shop -multitasking on different tasks at the same time. It’s one thing watching YouTube videos showing how to do something and another to have a pro show you and watch while critiquing you. I learned a ton in two weeks! Many of the things I never tried on my own were successfully completed and I’m proud of my results. DJ is a no nonsense kind of guy who doesn’t waste time. His passion for the craft is clear. He explained from the beginning that it’s a ton of information to cram into two weeks and that listening is key. He does it very well and I have zero regrets other than taking a beater guitar to do a successful fret job on. The results were that good. Thank you DJ!
About me: I’m an adult learner who has a lifelong passion for guitars and music in general. At one point I had a small business fabricating tube amps from scratch. I’ve worked in quite a few skilled trades so I have confidence in my hand skills and attention to detail. That being said I’ve always wanted to work on guitars on a professional level. I’m reaching a point in life where I want to follow my passion. My experience has only been with tinkering with my own instruments and a few friends’ guitars/basses. Minor repairs etc.”
~ Richard Grimaldi – March 2023
“I took the accelerated course with DJ and it was the perfect fit for what I needed. DJ’s accelerated course is articulate and thorough, touching on all the details needed to offer guitar repair services when completed. The course taught me everything I was looking to learn, and every second was spent learning and applying necessary trade skills. I would recommend the accelerated course to those with some previous guitar setup and repair experience, who are looking to dive deeper into things, though it is also a great fit for a fast-learning beginner as well. DJ will walk you through what you are doing, why you are doing it, and most importantly, how not to do it. His decades of experience and knowledge are a fantastic resource to have, and I am very grateful for our time spent together during this course.”
~ Nick Hall – April 2023
“I decided to take DJ’s accelerated course to give me the skills to start a new profession that allowed me to work with my hands. Let me establish that this was a very academic pursuit because I don’t play guitar, however, I do enjoy working on them. As others have said before, you will have a lot of information to process in a short period of time, in addition to learning the fundamental skills of guitar repair. Expect to go home with homework (cutting a new nut, fret end dressing, fret polishing, etc.). In class, expect to be instructed while executing guitar repairs under the watchful eye of an expert. He teaches not only “theory” but also has his students learn-by-doing, which I personally found to be very effective.
I came in with about 20 years of hobbyist soldering experience, and some general knowledge of hand tools and basic craftmanship, so with the exception to soldering, I was completely new to the world of guitars and guitar repair. Within a month of graduating DJ’s program, I was able to get a job performing guitar repair at a busy retail guitar shop. I’ve been here for about a year and a half now, and have since gained a lot of experience that has given me hindsight into what DJ taught me. I truly feel he set me up for success in this field, and encourage anyone who wants to learn guitar repair to look no further than here.”
~ Aaron Wood – April 2023
“I wanted to learn how to properly maintain and repair guitars. I did a few things online but was not confident with the results. Then I found Parsons Guitar Repair School! This course was awesome! It was so informative and helpful! Working hands on with DJ was a great experience and a great opportunity. The learning begins as soon as you enter the classroom and it does not stop until the session is finished! I took the two week accelerated course. I am so glad that I did! Learning from DJ makes this course so good because, not only is he a great person, but he thoroughly explains and demonstrates every process to complete to work. He gladly answered all of my questions! After completing the course, I have more confidence, more knowledge, and a much clearer understanding of correct guitar set ups and repairs. If you are considering becoming a guitar tech, or just want to learn how to set up and repair your own guitars, take this course! Invest in yourself! You, and the guitars you work on, will be happy that you did!”
~ Chris Keay – September 2023
“DJ is an awesome instructor. He knows how to balance respect for the student’s time with getting everything done, and done properly. I just completed the accelerated course as I’m from out of town and I couldn’t be more pleased with my experience. I would highly recommend anyone interested take a course with him. You will learn things the correct way and leave feeling comfortable with the knowledge that he’s given.”
~ Cian Ghataora – October 2023
“DJ’s knowledge of teaching and patience and his understanding of my abilities as a student made for a great experience. I’m a chef by trade. Dj gave me the recipe to be successful as a guitar repair tech. I consider him a friend and a mentor! Thank you”
~ Jeff Babson – October 2023
