Frequently Asked Questions
These are some common questions we receive that may help to point you in the right direction
Is there a credit check to be able to rent?
No, there is no credit check! You may fill out the form to rent with us and all you need is working phone numbers as well as a credit card. Loaded gift cards will not be accepted.
How do I become a musical instrument repair tech?
Most techs attend a 1-2 year training program at a school that offers a BIR program. There are currently 6 programs in North America:
- Western Iowa Tech Community College (my alma mater) offers a 2 year associates degree program in Sioux City, Iowa
- Minnesota State College Southeast offers a 1 year program in Band Instrument, Guitar or Violin Repair in Red Wing, Minnesota
- Renton Technical College offers a 1 year program in Renton, Washington
- Badger State Repair School offers a course in Elkhorn, Wisconsin
- CIOMIT offers multiple different course types and options on site in Castle Rock, Colorado or online
- Southeast Music Institute offers a 1 year course in Cartersville, Georgia
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If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field we would be happy to talk about our experiences. There are many different paths to becoming a tech and you just need to find one that is the right fit for you.
How long will my repair take?
Normal routine repairs will take anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks. This all depends on how many other repairs we have in the shop. During busy times (like over the summer, these wait times can be closer to 3-4 weeks. Repads can be much longer. We try to keep things moving as quickly as we can. We know how inconvenient it can be to be without your instrument. Always let us know if you have a performance deadline or test and we will do our best to accommodate that. If we need to order any parts for your repair this can take a bit longer and depends on whether that part is in stock. This can sometimes add a couple of weeks to the turn around time, but we will always keep you updated on the status.
Is my instrument worth the repair it needs?
In our current world, many cheaper alternatives are being created to take the place of various things we use. This is also true of musical instruments. It is important to make sure you are purchasing a quality instrument from a reputable brand. Some of the cheaper alternative instruments being made cannot withstand the repairs we need to do to get them playing correctly, or it may even be cheaper to purchase a new one than to repair it. Let us take a look at your instrument and we can find the best solution to your problem.