Hi Zandit
Firstly a photo. I did not build this guitar; I dearly wish I had that ability but actually New Zealander Laurie Williams was the builder and I am just the very lucky owner. I have posted it as the wood came from Distinctive Timbers, a short drive from your town. Gives an idea of what a little bit of Tassie blackwood can do in skilled hands.
Glad you liked Acoustic Music Centre – I have tried a couple of their Martins and vividly remember a beauty in Italian spruce and walnut back and sides from a few years ago. But mostly I just buy strings there! If you ever want a second hand Yammy Silent guitar drop me a note as I have one that I could probably sell.
Best of luck in your deliberations about the course. I reckon it would be an incredible experience. Please post a thread if you go ahead! A call to the builder sounds good, not just to check on spots but also to see if you get on well with him over the phone.
Cheers
Col