Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
O*NET 49-9063.00 · SOC 49-9063
Musical Instrument Repairer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $46k a year with +1.9% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 600 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Disassemble instruments to locate and fix mechanical defects
- →Replace worn strings, pads, or keys on musical instruments
- →Tune pianos by adjusting string tension with a tuning hammer
- →Refinish or restore damaged instrument bodies and surfaces
- →Adjust reed instruments to correct intonation and playability
Education & How to Get In
Most Musical Instrument Repairer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Musical Instrument Repairer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Musical Instrument Repairer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Musical Instrument Repairer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners is projected to grow 1.9% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Musical Instrument Repairer make?
The median Musical Instrument Repairer earns $46k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Musical Instrument Repairer jobs?
Our model puts Musical Instrument Repairer at 24 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk, AI-resistant. The main drivers: 43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Musical Instrument Repairer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Musical Instrument Repairer?
Most Musical Instrument Repairer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Musical Instrument Repairer?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Musical Instrument Repairer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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