Basically, you have three options for woodwind repair providers. You can look for repair services from professionals, who work in music stores or repair shops, or freelance their services. Semi-professionals, such as a band teacher or a local musician, are also possibilities. Between those two, you’ll want to weigh the comfort of a professional guarantee against the money-saving options a semi-professional can offer. Of course, if you’re ready to learn more about your instrument, you might consider learning do-it-yourself (DIY) repair. Overall, the best choice for you will be the one who provides the most confidence, convenience, and affordability.
Obtaining woodwind repair from a professional might make you feel the most comfortable. Professionals work in a variety of places, including music stores and shops dedicated solely to repair services. Some professional repairers freelance, and others are part of a team with an online or traditional storefront. Check your local listings for such services, and obtain referrals from others who play your woodwind family instrument. Note that professionals usually are the priciest providers of woodwind repair, but they’re also the most experienced and they usually provide some sort of money-back guarantee if the instrument sustains further damage during the repair.
You might not have to go so far to find woodwind repair services. For example, neighborhood band teachers, neighbors who teach music on the side, and even a friend in the local orchestra might be able to repair your musical instrument. Of course, the possibility will depend on the instrument’s damage and the person’s level of experience with your particular woodwind instrument. Also, there’s not the same sense of security you’d have with a professional. Neighbors and friends likely won’t be able to offer a guarantee or repay you for any additional damages they cause.
If you’re interested in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, or you simply want to learn more about your instrument and become more independent with it, you might consider DIY woodwind repair. Check with local bookstores or music shops for books or videos on woodwind repair. Keep in mind that the Internet is overflowing with sources explaining how to repair various instruments within the woodwind family. You can find helpful articles, instructional videos, and even entire websites dedicated either wholly to the winds and woodwind repair, or various categories of musical instrument repair. Note that choosing DIY repair means you’ll also need to purchase your own repair tools and replacement parts.
