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Music Instrument Repair Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

The purpose of this job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned in good playing order. A technician can specialize in one type of ...

Music Instrument Repair information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$20.2K

$40.8K

$57.2K

How much do music instrument repair jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for music instrument repair in Rochester, NY is $40,824.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $45,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Music Instrument Repair position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Music Instrument Repair, you need expertise in woodworking, metalworking, and acoustic science, often gained through vocational training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with specialized tools like lathes, soldering irons, and electronic tuners, as well as relevant certifications from organizations such as NAPBIRT, is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication skills help you diagnose problems accurately and explain repairs to clients. These abilities are crucial for delivering quality repairs that ensure instruments perform optimally and customers are satisfied.

What is a Music Instrument Repair job?

A Music Instrument Repair job involves diagnosing, maintaining, and fixing various musical instruments to ensure they play correctly. Repair technicians work with brass, woodwind, string, and percussion instruments, addressing issues like broken parts, tuning problems, and wear from regular use. They may work in music stores, repair shops, or independently, serving musicians, schools, and orchestras. Skilled technicians use specialized tools and techniques to restore instruments to optimal condition.

How to get into music instrument repair?

To start a career in music instrument repair, gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or technical training programs is essential. Developing skills in woodworking, electronics, and understanding instrument mechanics, along with familiarity with repair tools, can improve job prospects. Certification from industry organizations can also enhance credibility and employment opportunities.

What are the common types of instruments or repairs I might handle in a Music Instrument Repair position?

In a Music Instrument Repair job, you will often work on a wide variety of instruments, such as brass, woodwind, string, or electronic instruments, depending on the employer’s specialty. Typical repairs involve fixing cracks, replacing pads or valves, restringing, tuning, and addressing wear and tear from regular use. You may also perform regular maintenance to keep instruments in optimal playing condition. Many repair shops encourage collaborative troubleshooting with colleagues or luthiers, providing opportunities to share expertise and stay current on repair techniques. This variety allows you to build broad experience and develop specialized skills for career advancement.

What are popular job titles related to Music Instrument Repair jobs in Rochester, NY? For Music Instrument Repair jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Instrument Repair jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Music Instrument Repair jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Music Instrument Repair jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Music Instrument Repair job openings:
Repair Technician

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Music & Arts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 713 rated retailers


Job description

Technician, Repair Shop:

The purpose of this job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned in good playing order. A technician can specialize in one type of instrument, or work on multiple types.

Duty or Responsibility:

  • Works on rental returned instruments in an efficient & timely manner.
  • Ensuring each instrument is repared according to established quality guidelines
  • Maintain accurate records for production reporting
  • Additional duties as assigned.
About Music & Arts

The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.

Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 200+ retail stores, 120+ educational representatives, and 300+ affiliate locations.

Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Apprenticeship or a diploma for an accredited repair school is required
  • Must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.
  • Must be able to use standard repair shop tooling and equipment
  • 2 years of relevant work experience, working on musical instruments on a daily basis
  • Skilled understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion and orchestral instruments, and the ability to repair same in a timely and efficient manner
Perferred Requirements:
  • 4 years of relevant work experience, working on musical instruments on a daily basis
  • Advanced understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion and orchestral instruments, and the ability to repair same in a timely and efficient manner
Special Attributes:
  • Goal oriented
  • The ability to produce quality repairs in an efficient manner
  • The ability to take advice and supervision from the shop manager
  • Problem solving and technical skills as related to diagnosing and repairing each instrument
  • The ability to self-motivate and work independently
  • Must be able to work with others in a close environment
 Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Why Us? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate: $16.00 - $18.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations

Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job‐ related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by calling 1‐818-735-8800 ext. 2862 or by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.


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