Are you passionate about music? Are you curious about what goes on behind the scenes to keep musical instruments in top condition? A career in instrument repair might be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re drawn to the mechanics of repairing woodwinds, the precise metal work of brass repair, or intricate work of string repairs, getting started in this field requires a blend of hands-on training, technical knowledge, and a commitment to hard work. Let’s go over how to begin your journey into a rewarding instrument repair technician career.
Getting Started in a Repair Career
Explore Your Interest
Instrument repair is a specialized field. Many technicians choose to focus on a specific family of instruments, such as woodwinds, brass, strings, or percussion – typically the family of one they play already! Start by exploring which instrument group you’re most interested in. If you’ve played an instrument before, that’s often a good starting point because you’ll already have a familiarity with its inner workings. Watch videos, take one apart, or schedule a tour of CIOMIT to narrow down your focus.
Gain a Basic Understanding of How Instruments Work
Before diving into formal training, it’s helpful to learn about the basic construction and function of various instruments. Understanding the anatomy of a clarinet, trumpet, or violin will make your learning curve much easier when you start working on these instruments in a repair setting. In fact, it’s the first thing you’ll do in one of our fundamentals courses!
Enroll in a course at CIOMIT
The fastest and most reliable way to develop the skills needed for a repair career is to take a repair course. This is where Colorado Institute of Musical Instrument Technology comes in. We offer professional training in multiple disciplines, including woodwind, brass, and string repair. Our courses are designed to provide a mix of classroom learning and practical, hands-on experience. We offer flexible scheduling, as well as in person, online, and part-time course options, making it accessible for those balancing other commitments and budget constraints.
Seek an Internship or Entry-Level Position
Look for opportunities to gain experience in a real-world setting. Many repair shops offer internships or entry-level positions that allow you to shadow experienced technicians. This allows you to hone your skills, and gain familiarity with the day-to-day operations of a repair shop. Don’t be afraid to start small—even assisting with minor repairs and routine maintenance tasks will build your confidence and capability over time.
Consider Establishing Your Own Repair Business
Once you’ve built a solid foundation of skills and experience, consider taking on some repair work on the side. Some technicians choose to open their own repair business, while others join established repair shops or even work with instrument manufacturers. Determine what suits your professional and personal goals, and start building your reputation as a reliable and skilled technician.
Stay Passionate and Keep Learning
Instrument repair is a craft that requires continual learning. As new materials, tools, and techniques emerge, staying current is essential to providing the best service to your clients. Join online forums, read industry publications, and never stop honing your skills.
Why Choose CIOMIT for Your Instrument Repair Training?
At CIOMIT, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality education to help you succeed in the instrument repair industry. Our reputation over 18 years proves that! With our flexible payment options and part-time in-person courses, we cater to students with varying schedules and financial needs. Our instructors bring years of real-world experience, and our curriculum is designed to ensure you leave with the skills needed to excel in your chosen repair discipline. Let us help you turn your passion for music into a professional, rewarding career!
Visit the CIOMIT Repair Institute page to view pricing and course options. Fill out our contact form or call 303-663-4084 to schedule a tour of our school, we can meet you online and in person! Excited to get started? Apply to be a student today!