Musical instrument repairers can be grouped into four main categories:
- Band instrument repairers
- Piano and organ repairers
- Violin repairers
- Guitar repairers
They can specialize in specific instruments or instrument families or be
generalists.
Musical instrument repairers could also be called musical instrument technicians
or band instrument repair technicians. Whatever the name, they basically do
the same thing -- fix damaged or faulty musical instruments and get them to
perform at their peak.
There are several kinds of band instruments that could be brought to a
repair shop. They range from wind instruments like trombones, saxophones and
trumpets to string instruments like violins and guitars to percussion instruments
like drums and xylophones.
Repairers could find themselves working on an old piano or pipe organ one
day and a modern electronic organ the next.
Not all musical instrument repairers are trained in dealing with electronic
musical instruments. But if you have that ability, it will serve you well.
The work of the musical instrument repairer begins with a diagnosis of
the problem or problems with the instrument. This normally involves asking
the owner or client questions to find out exactly what's wrong with the instrument.
Repairers may also test the instrument themselves or take it apart to examine
it.
Once the problem is identified, the technician has to decide on the best
way to fix it. This could range from simply tuning the instrument properly
(a guitar, for example) to replacing parts and components.
You do need to be able to play the instrument in order to repair it. You
must be mechanically inclined. Hand-eye coordination and good hearing are
also essential.
Although physical strength isn't required, good health and physical stamina
are great things to have. You need to be ready to work long hours alone at
your bench and be able to handle chemicals and other abrasives.
You also need people skills to market your services, to do public speaking
and to network with musicians.