Band Instrument Repair

Southwestern Michigan College’s new Certificate in Band Instrument Repair prepares students with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to enter the band instrument repair profession.

About the Certificate in Band Instrument Repair

During the one-year program, students develop technical proficiency in instrument maintenance; cleaning and sanitation; key adjustments and regulation; cork and pad work; valve/slide action and repair; soldering techniques; dent work; tooling and fabrication; and much more!

Classes are led by instrument specialists and cover a variety of woodwind and brass instruments, including clarinets; trumpets; saxophones; trombones; flutes; oboes/bassoons; French horns; and tubas and euphoniums

Students entering the program must have band experience and display an aptitude on a minimum of one woodwind or brass instrument. They are encouraged but not required to participate in an SMC performing arts group.

Students are required to purchase a professional tool kit for the course, which they may add to throughout the program.

Southwestern Michigan College has submitted an application for this new program to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the College’s institutional accreditor, and is currently pending HLC review.

What You’ll Learn/Courses and Curriculum

View the curriculum guide for the Certificate in Band Instrument Repair.

What Can I Do With a Certificate in Band Instrument Repair?

Graduates of the program will be well prepared for employment in retail music stores; instrument repair shops; public schools and colleges and universities; instrument manufacturers; or for self-employment, earning up to $35 per hour.