Musical instrument builders not only build musical instruments, but also restore, repair, alter or adjust them, by using special techniques such as wood carving, silver smithing and cabinet making. They make and design instruments and their parts.
Musical instrument builders make and assemble instrument parts, tune instruments, attach strings and install electrical wiring for instruments. They also tell their clients, telling them more about the instrument and its acoustic properties.
Musical instrument builders need to know exactly what people are looking for. Most musical instrument builders specialize in one instrument, but some specialize in various instruments, usually from the same group, e.g.electronic, wind, string or brass.
Satisfying Aspects
- the opportunity to specialize
- variety of work tasks
- the challenge of designing new instruments
- the possibility of becoming self-employed
Demanding aspects
- the possibility of eyestrain resulting from doing detailed work
- the possibility of accidents or injuries on the job
- working overtime to get orders completed
Requirements
A musical instrument builder must be/have:
- work meticulously
- very accurate and precise
- mathematical ability and mechanical aptitude
- diligent and patient
- good hand and finger dexterity
- practical
- love music and musical instruments
School Subjects
The minimum requirement is a Grade 8
National Senior Certificate or an N3
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Engineering and Graphic Design, Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology
Training
FET colleges offering a certificate in carpentry, eg Umgungundlovu.
.
Experienced musical instrument builders may provide in-service training
Employer
- instrument or music stores or factories
- self-employment, with enough experience and capital, can start own business or work on freelance basis, for example as a piano tuner
Contact
Musicological Society of Southern Africa
P O Box 3452
Maitland, 7602
Tel: (021) 808-2353
Fax: (021) 808-2340
E-mail: ig@maties.sun.ac.za