‘The Chisels Are Calling,’ a Profile on Guitar Builder John Monteleone

On Saturday, November 5, at 6 p.m., The Church in Sag Harbor will host a screening of “The Chisels Are Calling,” a profile of John Monteleone, the world’s greatest guitar builder and living artist on permanent exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Directed, edited and produced by Trevor Laurence, the documentary looks beyond the technical aspects of the luthier and examines the life, passion, talent and unique approach Monteleone takes to his art. Beginning with the self-taught master’s early interest in the craft at age 10, the film follows the launch of Monteleone’s career as a repairer of some of the world’s finest instruments. Creatively inspired by his family’s Italian roots, the audience will travel with Monteleone to northern Italy, as he ventures into the forests to find the perfect wood for his projects. A multifaceted artist, Monteleone is highly sought after by musicians, collectors and museums — his guitars are known not only for their incredible sound, but also for their visually striking and innovative designs.

Featuring musical tributes and interviews with Mark Knopfler, Ben Harper, David Grisman, Julian Lage, the late Woody Mann (producer and music supervisor of the film) among notable musicians and the like. Following the screening, a Q&A will be held with Monteleone and Laurence.

John Monteleone was born in Manhattan in 1947 and was raised on Long Island. He began professionally restoring and building stringed musical instruments in 1973 after graduating Tarkio College with a degree to teach music. Recognized as being one of the finest living archtop guitar and mandolin makers in the world today, Monteleone has been at the forefront of innovative cutting-edge archtop instrument making for many years. His uniquely designed instruments are the essence of artistic expression, reflected in the subtle but challenging marriage of form and function.

Tickets to the screening are $15 at thechurchsagharbor.org. The Church is at 48 Madison Street, Sag Harbor.