The 21st March saw Anstruther Rotary Club make what turned out to be an eye-opening visit to the workshop of local luthier Rory Dowling. Rory has been making stringed instruments since 2002 and after working in Edinburgh, now has his very fine workshop at Comie Law Farm, close by Arncroach.

He trades as Taran Guitars (www.taranguitars.co.uk) named after the Gaelic for thunder and the Harris hill, ‘Taran Mhor’, tucked behind the steep climbs of ‘Sgianait’. What is immediately clear is Rory’s search for perfection in creating individually handcrafted instruments, from the very finest materials and with immense care taken in every detail of design and build.

Most of Rory’s guitars are made to the particular specification of each client and based on his designs ‘Meilein’, ‘Taran Mhor’, ‘Tirga Mhor’, ‘Tirga Beag’ and ‘Ulladale’ – a range that goes from parlour size to jumbo.

In Rory’s words: ‘it is my belief that a truly extraordinary instrument is the result of the meticulous selection of the finest tonewoods and careful construction along with a clear vision of the end result. In working closely with clients and by understanding their requirements I can craft a unique instrument tailored to their tastes’.

We heard of an approach that questions and experiments – that challenges function and aesthetic. Precious and exotic woods were much in evidence – the rarest perhaps only available now by careful recycling - Brazilian Mahogany, Indian ebony, Italian Spruce, Indian and African Black Wood, Honduras and Madagascan Rosewoods, Rippled European Maple, English Sycamore and European Walnut.

It was absorbing to be guided through the many processes needed to complete an instrument; to learn something of the way in which design and material choices influence the instrument’s character and of the care needed during construction to refine the ‘tuning’ of the body. And all this surrounded by the tools and special jigs needed.

Altogether a highly interesting experience and grateful thanks to Rory for making us welcome.