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Hello again everyone,

I've always loved tinkering around with instruments and doing any repairs that are within my power, but where I live does not offer any kind of hands-on experience. I know there are some good repair schools in Indiana, but studying instrument repair at the collegiate level is not an option at this point. I'm the first person from my family to do anything in music. The parents aren't exactly supportive of music, and I get no financial support if I pursue music in college. I really do enjoy making broken instruments live again, and restoring old instruments to their former glory. Does anyone know how I can get better at the trade on a college student budget? I'd love to make this into a career.

You're in Indiana, the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technician (NAPBIRT) organization is very close by in Normal, Il. They will have loads of information on all the tech schools available across the country. I'm a graduate of the largest program in the country. MNSC-SE Tech, in Red Wing, MN. If I'm not mistaken they had they're largest class this year. Talk to Bill at NAPBIRT, he is the executive Director and a repair technician. He will give you the square deal on repair as a career. Best of luck.

I'm actually in NW Ohio, but that is still very close to Indiana.

The very best way to learn is to Apprentice under someone. If you can find a grumpy old Master Technician in your area that will show you the ropes, you should go for it! You may not make any money doing it (Or who knows, YOU MIGHT!) but it would be a great way to get started, especially if that grumpy tech is a reputable Technician.

If you can afford to move, Look up Mill's Music in Redmond, Wa. They offer unpaid repair Internships with the possibility of hire if you can make the cut. The Brass Technician at their Issaquah location, Ben Hansson, Is a fantastic technician and a great teacher. He taught me my basic hammer and solder technique and Scott Mandeville hasn't picked on it yet! (Though he has shown me some more advanced ways to do things )

Thanks! I'll look into these.