Posted by Lee Stofer on November 19, 2001 at 11:04:18:
In Reply to: Studying Instrument Repair? posted by Rob Suttie on November 19, 2001 at 05:52:44:
Rob,
I cannot speak for the employment situation in Australia, but i would suggest that you contact one of the NAPBIRT members in Sydney. As a NAPBIRT member since 1995, I have nothing but praise for the Association, and any school recommended by them is a solid one. In the United States, there are more full-time instrument repair positions than there are qualified technicians. It takes time, persistence, and ability to become a fine instrument repair technician, just like being a musician, but I believe that it is well worth the effort. As a repair technician, you'll not get rich, but you'll never be broke, either. A combination of schooling and apprenticing can get you to where you want to be- who knows, maybe you will become Australia's tuba restoration specialist!
-Lee Stofer