Teaching

Eager to pass on his knowledge to the next generation, Damien regularly works as a trainer in professional training programs. For instance, he teaches restoration at the Aladfi campus and sound optimization at the BVMA. He also occasionally gives optional courses at the Mirecourt School of Lutherie.

Upcoming events

ALADFI Campus: Advanced violin restoration course

For the 4th time at the Aldafi Campus, Almuth McWilliams and Damien Sainmont will be teaching advance restoration techniques and pass on their knowledge.

This course is aimed at professional violin-makers who already have basic restoration skills and would like to learn more. Participants will bring their own instruments to be restored and to work on.

Ferme de Villefavard en Limousin, France

Mai 13, 2025 – Mai 21, 2025 (to be confirmed)

Past Events

ALADFI Campus: Advanced violin restoration course

In 2022, 2023 & 2024 at the Aldafi Campus, Almuth McWilliams and Damien Sainmont taught with great enthusiasm the art of violin restoration. The student’s motivation and appetite to learn was a driving force behind the course.

Student’s testimonies:

“Thanks a lot for your commitment and kindness in your teaching!”

“The time in Villefavard was a wonderful professional and human experience. Your availability and expertise were motivating, as was the atmosphere of collaboration and friendship that developed among everyone.”

BVMA Course: Sound optimisation and advanced set-up

This course is designated for our more experienced members and will be taught by Damien Sainmont and Catherine Janssens. Participants will bring their own set-up instruments, which will then be assessed. Instruments will be looked at from different aspects, such as architecture of each individual instrument, resonances and their impact on the instrument’s parts, as well as comfort of playing.

Dec 11, 2022 – Dec 16, 2022