Discover the Art of Ceramic Instrument Making
Join us for an in-person workshop where you'll learn to handcraft your own ceramic instrument using ancestral techniques rooted in Mesoamerican traditions. Guided by artist and musician Vianney López, this immersive experience blends earth, sound, and creativity—no prior clay or music experience needed. The journey culminates in the creation of a one-of-a-kind instrument and a deepened connection to the sacred artistry of sound.
Workshop Offerings
𖠷 Grandmother Ocarina
A grounding and deeply resonant vessel, the Grandmother Ocarina carries ancestral tones and earth-rooted presence. In this workshop, you’ll shape a larger-bodied ocarina designed for low, powerful notes and sacred ceremony. Adding symbols, aspects of nature or objects as you envision with the abuelas.
𖠷 Bird Whistle
Light, playful, and spirit-like — the Bird Whistle sings with high-pitched melodies and calls. Learn to craft your own version of this instrument inspired by nature’s winged messengers.
𖠷 Flute
Create a traditional clay flute with soft, breath-born tones. This workshop focuses on forming and tuning a melodic instrument that invites stillness, prayer, and personal song.
𖠷 Sculptured Instruments
Merge sculpture and sound as you design an ocarina that’s also a visual art piece. You’ll explore creative forms — from animals to symbols — while learning how to integrate voice and shape into one harmonious expression.
✦ What’s Included in the 2-Day Workshops:
– All Materials Provided
Clay, sculpting tools, carving tools, and supplies for building and tuning your instrument.
– Hands-On Instruction & Live Demonstrations
Step-by-step guidance on forming, shaping, and tuning your instrument, with live demos and one-on-one support.
– Crafting Your Own Sound Channel Stick
You’ll create a personal tuning tool to help carve and refine the inner air passage (or “voice”) of your instrument.
– Ancestral Techniques & Instrument Anatomy
Learn the foundations of clay instruments through an ancestral lens—covering airflow, tone chambers, and breathway design.
– Musical Note Guidance & Sound Mapping
Explore how to shape your instrument’s voice using a pentatonic or diatonic scale. You’ll learn how to place and tune finger holes, test for tone, and chart your instrument’s note range using tuning tools and listening practices.
– Creative Expression & Sculptural Play
Design your piece with personal symbols, textures, and forms—blending function and artistic expression.
– Small Group Environment
Enjoy an intimate setting for personal guidance, questions, and connection with fellow makers.
– Firing Instructions for Home Completion
You’ll receive detailed instructions for safely firing your piece at a local pottery studio after the workshop.
– Tea, Snacks & Grounding Atmosphere
Nourishing snacks and breaks throughout the day to help you stay centered and inspired.
Each 2 Day Workshop is $450
Included in Workshops
Workshops of 2026
Friday, April 24 - Saturday, April 25
Los Angeles, California
Grandmother Ocarina 2-day Workshop
10am - 4:30pm
Sunday April 26 - Monday April 27
Los Angeles, California
Bird Whistle 2-day Workshop
10am - 4:30pm
Wednesday April 29 - Thursday April 30
Los Angeles, California
Flute 2-day Workshop
10am - 4:30pm
Friday May 1 - Saturday May 2
Los Angeles, California
Sculptured Instrument 2-day Workshop
10am - 4:30pm
Friday May 29 - Saturday May 30
Austin, Texas
Sculptured Instrument 2-day Workshop
10am - 4:30pm
FAQ
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No experience is needed! These workshops are open to all levels, from beginners to experienced artists and musicians. Each step will be guided with care.
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Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own tools if you have favorites! We’ll also provide a full set of standard classroom tools, so it’s not required.
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Firing is not included in the workshop. We encourage you to find a local pottery studio or community kiln in your area that can assist with firing your piece after the workshop. We’ll provide guidance on firing temperatures and best practices.
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Participation in both days is essential, as each session builds upon the last. We recommend joining only if you’re able to attend the full 2 day workshop.
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Workshops are hosted in ceramic studios in cities like Los Angeles and Austin. Exact location details will be shared upon acceptance and registration.
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Yes! Register by the end of September to receive $50 off your workshop with code EARLYBIRD50.
Cancellation Policy
Payment is Non-Refundable
Payment can be transferred to a future Workshop