Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
Repair percussion, stringed, reed, or wind instruments. May specialize in one area, such as piano tuning.
SOC: 49-9063.00
Common Job Titles
- Banjo Repair Person
- Luthier
- Piano Technician
- Piano Tuner
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onAdapt traditional repair techniques to accommodate unique or vintage instruments using creative problem-solving and custom fabrication methods.Advanced
- Hands-onCalibrate piano action mechanisms and key responsiveness using precision gauges and regulators to achieve manufacturer specifications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate instrument sound quality and pitch accuracy using electronic tuners and acoustic testing methods.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute precisely delicate adjustments to strings, pads, and reeds under magnification to restore optimal tone and playability.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess cost-effectiveness and feasibility of repair options balancing customer budget constraints with instrument preservation needs.Proficient
- MindsetBalance artistic craftsmanship principles with time management requirements when managing multiple repair projects and client deadlines.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized tools including tuning hammers, levelers, and reamers to repair and adjust percussion, stringed, reed, and wind instruments.Developing
- KnowledgeDiagnose mechanical and tonal defects in musical instruments through systematic inspection and acoustic analysis.Developing
- MindsetEngage with musicians and instrument owners to understand performance issues and service expectations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of acoustics, mechanical systems, and fine arts when determining appropriate repair techniques for different instrument families.Developing
- Hands-onAssemble replacement components such as keys, valves, and bridges following established craftsmanship standards and instrument specifications.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,730
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $30,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,820. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $56,960. 90th percentile: U.S. $73,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $30,130 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $73,430 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,020 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
- Mechanical3.4/5
- Fine Arts3.4/5
- English Language3.3/5
- Administration and Management2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Technology Skills
- Katsura Shareware KS Strobe Tuner
- Katsura Shareware ProLevel
- Katsura Shareware SoundFrames
- Mensurix Audio
- Reyburn CyberTuner
- TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome
- Tunable Instrument Tuner
- TuneLab
Tools & Equipment
- Action regulators
- Adjustable C clamps
- Adjustable fret slotting saws
- Agraffe removers
- Air dusting guns
- Air hoses
- Alcohol lamps
- Alignment jigs