Musical Instrument Tuning and Repair
Almost any musical instrument can become damaged or out of tune and a musical instrument tuning and repair specialist can then be called to fix the problem. Some instruments such as pianos will usually be tuned at the home, whereas other smaller instruments may be brought in directly to the repair person's shop. Understanding the construction and musical qualities of various instruments as well as having an excellent ear for pitch and tune is very important for these professionals.
The role of a musical instrument tuner or repair person is a very old profession. It is usually learned through a combination of school or vocational college training as well as working as an apprentice with a currently established professional in the field. Some tuners and repair people focus exclusively on one type of instrument such as pianos, organs or guitars whereas others have a broader range in the type of instruments they tune and repair.
A keen appreciation of musical instruments is required for a tuner or repair person. While it is not important that the tuner or repair person be able to play the instrument he or she should definitely be able to play a scale and understand clearly if the instrument is in tune or repaired. Working with wood, metals and even electrical components are important for a musical repair person. Some computer programs and software may be useful but generally most professionals trust their own ear to tune, rather than relying on tuning devices.
Common work activities include:
- Traveling to clients and customers houses to tune or repair large instruments such as organs and pianos.
- Invoicing, billing and collecting money for services.
- Ordering and keeping adequate stock of basic repair materials for the type of instruments that the musical instrument repair person specializes in.
- Networking with musicians as well as developing a customer base to provide income.
- Advertising services to increase awareness of the availability of services in the community.
- Learning new computer programs, software or other diagnostic tools to help in the repair and tuning of various musical instruments.