Explore a hands-on career that blends craftsmanship, music, and technical skill in a field with high demand and rewarding opportunities.            At Ernie Williamson Music, we’re proud to have a team of skilled instrument repair technicians who work behind the scenes to keep instruments in top condition. We’re often asked, “How do I become an instrument repair technician?” Whether you're a musician yourself or simply love the idea of working with musical instruments, becoming an instrument repair technician can be a rewarding path. This guide explains the main routes into the field, the skills needed, and what you can expect from a career in instrument repair.    Pathways to Becoming an Instrument Repair Technician There are two main ways to get started in the world of instrument repair: through apprenticeships or formal schooling. Both options offer hands-on learning, but they differ in pace and structure. 1. Apprenticeships An apprenticeship is a hands-on learning experience with a mentor, typically conducted in a repair shop. This approach offers a flexible and informal setting, where training is woven into the shop's everyday work. Pros: Apprenticeships are well-suited for those who prefer a slower, individualized approach. They are often less costly than formal repair schools and may offer some modest pay opportunities during the apprentice’s time training. Many apprentices specialize in repairing one or two types of instruments, allowing them to develop a deep focus and high proficiency.  Cons: Because apprenticeships are less structured than formal schooling, they can take longer to complete and may not cover the wide range of instruments that a repair school would.    2. Repair Schools Repair schools provide a structured, fast-paced curriculum designed to prepare students for entry-level employment as repair technicians. Programs are typically one to two years and focus on hands-on training supported by formal lessons in repair processes and theory.  Pros: Repair schools cover a wide range of instruments, preparing graduates as generalists who can tackle various repair needs. Cons: The intense pace may be challenging for some, and although graduates are well-prepared, they often enter the field as “advanced apprentices,” requiring further on-the-job experience to gain speed and mastery. Repair schools maintain advisory committees of experienced technicians and manufacturers to ensure that their training stays relevant. For students who enjoy structure and can manage the intensity, repair schools offer an excellent foundation in this highly skilled trade. For anyone interested in band instrument repair, the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT) is an invaluable resource. NAPBIRT supports apprentices and professional techs alike with resources, events, and networking opportunities. Similarly, The Guild of American Luthiers is a great resource for those interested in fretted or orchestral string repair.     General Career Expectations in Instrument Repair Becoming a repair technician is the beginning of a lifetime journey of learning. As with any skilled trade, it takes years of practice to master instrument repair fully. Here’s what you can expect from a career in this field:  Ongoing Learning: No matter how much you learn in school or during an apprenticeship, hands-on experience with different instruments is essential. Repair techs often attend workshops and training throughout their careers to stay current on techniques and tools.  Problem-Solving Skills: Each instrument presents unique challenges, and technicians must develop strong problem-solving skills to assess and fix complex issues.  Physical Dexterity: Precision is critical. Whether adjusting small parts, replacing pads, or polishing finishes, repair work demands patience and fine motor skills.  Customer Service: A good technician doesn’t just fix instruments; they’re also a trusted advisor to musicians. Listening to customers, understanding their needs, and explaining repairs are all part of the job. As of 2024, the average annual salary for a qualified instrument repair technician in the U.S. ranges from approximately $35,000 to $63,000. Entry-level roles or apprenticeships typically start at the lower end, while technicians skilled in complex repairs and efficient work tend to earn more. Geographic location also impacts salaries, with technicians in high-demand or high-cost areas generally earning above the national average. On average, a band instrument technician typically earns slightly more than a guitar repair technician. Band instrument technicians tend to have a broader and more specialized skill set, often servicing a wider variety of instruments, which can increase their earning potential. Meanwhile, guitar repair technicians, especially those focused on fretted instruments, have a pay range that is generally similar but may fall slightly lower on average due to the narrower instrument focus. If this sounds like a career path that interests you, we encourage you to explore training options or reach out to local repair shops. Instrument repair is a unique trade, and there is a growing demand for skilled technicians across the country. Joining this field means being part of a vital community that supports musicians by keeping their instruments in top shape. For further information on band instrument repair training, visit the NAPBIRT website to explore upcoming workshops, certifications, and more resources.  

This issue of the More to Start, Fewer to Quit (MSFQ) tips comes from Marcia Neel, senior director of education, Yamaha and education advisor, Music Achievement Council.   RECRUITMENT TIP   Recruitment is a year-round job so if you haven’t already established this year’s visitation schedule to schools, NOW IS THE TIME. It’s important to visit feeder schools at least a couple of times each month. The best recruiting model is for educators of the school with the older students to also serve as educators for the beginning students at the school whose students will eventually participate at the next. Students will want to continue as they transition from one school to the next if they know and have a relationship already established with that teacher. In addition, becoming acquainted with the parents of these future students by attending their events and inviting them to participate in your events will help. Parents are more likely to encourage their students to continue if they already know the music teacher at the next school. Whether recruiting from elementary school to middle school or middle school to high school, this model just works! Simply stated, there is security in familiarity.   RETENTION TIP   Engage current students in this process. Younger students get a kick out of being recognized in a positive manner by their older peers. Contact the former educators of this year’s students to ask how all might work together to encourage these students to serve as leaders/mentors in the programs of their former teachers. Students love helping their former teachers and these educators appreciate seeing how their former students have matured in their music studies. Collaborations like these may also serve as projects and volunteer hours for students involved in Tri-M, Key Club or similar leadership activities. It has been found that those students who are more actively engaged in retention efforts themselves tend to also continue because it reinforces their buy-in and enhances the personal satisfaction they get from giving back.   SUCCESS TIP   Show how much you appreciate the support of the school’s faculty and staff by planning a Valentine’s Day Luncheon with entertainment provided by soloists and ensembles from the school’s various music programs. They will appreciate the generous gesture and enjoy seeing the students perform in a setting outside of their regular classrooms. The performers might also use this opportunity to perform selections from this year’s Solo & Ensemble event. Your administration will appreciate the feeling of excitement it will bring to the entire school. Consider involving the music parents in some fashion and plan on making this an annual event.   Thanks,   Marcia Neel   Senior Director of Education, Yamaha   Education Advisor, Music Achievement Council

All accomplished athletes devote the beginning of each training session to warming up, and musicians should follow their lead. Just like athletes, musicians need to prepare their bodies and minds for the demands of practice. Why Warming Up Is Important Warming up is crucial because it readies you physically and mentally for playing music. Although playing music might not seem as physically demanding as sports, it is surprisingly physical and can lead to injuries without proper preparation. For instance, violinists can strain their neck and shoulder muscles, while brass players risk damaging their lips, causing painful swelling and fatigue. These injuries can make playing difficult or even impossible. Musicians who warm up find their bodies more relaxed, responsive, and ready to play. Warm-ups serve various purposes. They prepare our bodies for performing by enhancing breathing and air movement, limbering up fingers and hands, and engaging the fine muscles of the embouchure for wind players. Equally important, warm-ups engage our brains in listening and making musical sounds, contributing to the development of overall musicianship skills. Mentally, warming up helps you focus on learning new music. Without a warmup, many musicians struggle to concentrate, leading to unproductive practice sessions. Warming up sharpens your focus, making practice more productive and less frustrating. How To Warm Up Effectively Student musicians need to be trained in proper individual warm-up techniques, completed before the group warms up as an ensemble. Basic individual warm-ups usually include the following elements: Stretch: Use your body a lot while playing, so stretch the parts most used in your playing. Violinists, for instance, should ensure their necks, shoulders, and arms are loose and limber. Percussionists should stretch their fingers, wrists, arms, neck, and shoulders. Stretching helps prevent tension that can inhibit playing. Start Easy, Then Increase Difficulty: Begin your warmup slowly and gradually increase the difficulty. Start with something comfortable and then progress to more challenging exercises. For wind players, this includes long tones at medium to soft dynamic levels, mouthpiece buzzing, and simple lip slurs. Articulation variations, including slurring and tonguing patterns, are also essential. Deep Breathing Exercises: All musicians, including percussionists, should incorporate deep breathing exercises. These help with relaxation and prepare the respiratory system for the demands of playing. Be Intentional: Avoid going through the motions. Take your warmup seriously and use it to focus on playing. This will enhance the productivity of your practice sessions and improve the quality of your playing. Incorporating these elements into your warmup routine will help ensure you’re physically and mentally prepared for practice. Stretch well, start easy, engage in deep breathing, and be intentional to make the most of your warmup.

The French horn, with its majestic sound and captivating presence, is a cornerstone of orchestral and brass ensemble music. Let's embark on a voyage through the inner workings of this remarkable instrument, unraveling its intricate anatomy and exploring the features that make it truly unique.   Mouthpiece: Like all brass instruments, the journey of sound begins with the mouthpiece. It's the player's interface with the instrument, where air is blown to create vibrations. The shape and size of the mouthpiece can greatly influence the tone and timbre of the instrument, allowing for a personalized sound. Lead Pipe: The lead pipe serves as the conduit for the airflow from the mouthpiece into the main tubing of the French horn. Its design influences the instrument's response and resonance, contributing to the player's control and articulation. A well-crafted lead pipe can enhance the instrument's tonal characteristics and playability. Key Levers: French horns are equipped with key levers, also known as valve levers or valve paddles, which are used to engage the instrument's rotors. These levers are pressed by the player's fingers to redirect the airflow through different lengths of tubing, producing different pitches. The placement and ergonomics of the key levers are carefully designed to facilitate smooth, efficient valve operation. Rotors: At the heart of the French horn's sound production are its rotors, which are responsible for changing the pitch of the notes. There are two types of rotor mechanisms: string linkages and mechanical linkages. String linkages use strings or cables to connect the key levers to the rotors, while mechanical linkages use gears or levers. Each system has its own unique feel and response, with some players preferring the smoothness of string linkages and others favoring the precision of mechanical linkages. Tuning Slide: The tuning slide allows players to make fine adjustments to the pitch of the instrument. By extending or retracting the tuning slide, players can ensure that the French horn is perfectly in tune with other instruments in the ensemble. It's a small but crucial component that contributes to the instrument's overall intonation and blend. Bell: The bell of the French horn is where the sound is projected outward, giving the instrument its characteristic warmth and resonance. Its flared shape enhances the instrument's tonal projection, allowing for rich, expressive tones that can fill even the largest concert halls. The Difference Between Single Horn and Double Horn: One notable distinction in French horn anatomy is between single horns and double horns. Single horns have a simpler design, with only one set of tubing and one set of key levers. Double horns, on the other hand, have an additional set of tubing and key levers, activated by a thumb lever near the player's hand. This allows for greater flexibility in pitch and tonal color, making double horns a preferred choice for many professional players. Understanding the anatomy of the French horn offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and engineering behind this beloved instrument. From the mouthpiece to the bell, each component plays a vital role in shaping its distinctive sound and expressive capabilities, making it an essential voice in any musical ensemble.

  Baritones and euphoniums are brass instruments known for their warm, mellow tones and versatile musical capabilities. Let's dive into the inner workings of these instruments, uncovering the various components that contribute to their distinct sound and character. Mouthpiece: Just like with other brass instruments, the mouthpiece is where the sound begins. It's a small, cup-shaped attachment that players blow into to produce vibrations. The shape and size of the mouthpiece can affect the instrument's tone and playability, giving each player their own unique sound. Leadpipe: The leadpipe is like the gateway for air to enter the instrument. It connects the mouthpiece to the main tubing and helps direct the airflow into the instrument's body. A well-designed leadpipe can improve the instrument's response and playability, allowing for smooth, effortless playing. Valves & Valve Casing: Unlike trombones, baritones and euphoniums use valves to change the pitch of the notes. When a player presses down on a valve, it redirects the airflow through different lengths of tubing, producing different notes. The valves are housed in valve casings, which keep them in place and allow them to move freely when pressed. Valve Slides: Similar to the slides on a trombone, baritones and euphoniums also have valve slides that can be adjusted to fine-tune the instrument's intonation. These slides extend and retract to ensure that each note is in tune with the rest of the ensemble. Keeping these slides well lubricated is essential for smooth, precise playing. Water Key: During play, moisture can build up inside the tubing of the instrument. To prevent this from affecting the sound quality, baritones and euphoniums are equipped with a water key, also known as a spit valve. This small mechanism allows players to release excess moisture, ensuring clear, resonant tones. Bell: At the end of the instrument, you'll find the bell, which is where the sound is projected outward. The shape and size of the bell can influence the instrument's tone and projection, with larger bells typically producing a richer, more resonant sound. It's like the speaker of the instrument, amplifying the vibrations created by the player. The Difference Between Baritones and Euphoniums: While baritones and euphoniums may look similar, there are some key differences between the two. Euphoniums typically have a larger bore size and a more conical shape, giving them a darker, more mellow sound.   Understanding the anatomy of baritones and euphoniums gives us a deeper appreciation for these versatile brass instruments. From the mouthpiece to the bell, each component plays a vital role in shaping their unique sound and expressive capabilities, making them essential members of any ensemble.

The trombone, with its distinctive sliding mechanism and bold, resonant sound, holds a prominent place in both classical and contemporary music. Behind its polished brass exterior lies a meticulously crafted ensemble of components, each playing a crucial role in shaping the instrument's sound and playability. Let's take a closer look at the anatomy of a trombone, dissecting its key components and exploring their functions. Mouthpiece: At the forefront of every trombone's sound production is the mouthpiece, a small yet vital component that serves as the interface between player and instrument. Crafted to fit comfortably against the player's lips, the mouthpiece channels the airstream into the trombone's tubing, initiating vibrations that resonate throughout the instrument. Slide: Central to the trombone's unique sound and versatility is its sliding mechanism, which sets it apart from other brass instruments. The slide consists of two parallel tubes, one nested inside the other, allowing the player to extend or retract the length of the tubing. By moving the slide in and out, the player can produce a seamless glissando effect, smoothly transitioning between pitches with remarkable fluidity. Bell: Situated at the opposite end of the instrument from the mouthpiece, the bell of the trombone serves as the primary outlet for sound projection. Its flared shape enhances resonance and amplifies the instrument's bold, brass timbre, ensuring that the trombone's voice carries across even the largest of performance spaces. Water Key: During play, moisture can accumulate inside the trombone's tubing, potentially affecting sound quality and playability. To address this issue, trombones are equipped with a water key, also known as a spit valve. Located at the lowest point of the instrument's tubing, typically near the bell section, the water key provides a convenient means for players to expel excess moisture, ensuring optimal performance. Braces: Trombones feature several braces strategically placed along the instrument's body to provide structural support and stability. These braces help distribute the instrument's weight evenly, minimizing strain on critical joints and connections. Additionally, braces contribute to the trombone's overall durability, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use and transportation. Tuning Slide: To accommodate variations in pitch and intonation, trombones are equipped with a tuning slide, usually located near the mouthpiece receiver. By adjusting the position of the tuning slide, players can fine-tune the instrument to match the desired pitch reference, ensuring compatibility with other musicians or ensembles. The tuning slide also allows for quick adjustments during performance, enabling seamless transitions between different keys and musical passages. In conclusion, the trombone's anatomy reflects a harmonious blend of form and function, where precision engineering meets artistic expression. From the mouthpiece to the bell, each component plays a vital role in shaping the instrument's sound and playability, inviting players and audiences alike to revel in the trombone's rich, resonant tones and dynamic versatility.