The Woodwind Making and Repair course will equip learners with the skills necessary to maintain, repair and restore the whole range of woodwind instruments.
Learners will study the history and development of woodwind instruments, and the evolution of their design and construction. The module in applied acoustics will apply scientific understanding to the functioning of a chosen musical instrument.
Learners will also engage with the formal process of problem solving and make specialist tools in the engineering workshop. Learners will be introduced to the essential requirements of business practice relevant to the trade. Awareness and application of safe working practices will be central throughout the course.
Completion of this one-year programme will equip learners for further study in the field.
Typical Topics
Basic Techniques - learners will be introduced to a range of practical traditional repair techniques, tools and materials associated with their craft. Focus will be on the full restoration of instruments including clarinets, flutes, oboes and saxophones.
Workshop Practice - learners will be introduced to the processes of making specialist tools used for tasks in woodwind making and repair. It develops control of manual techniques and the use of machine operations to manufacture bespoke hand tools. Simple key making will also be studied.
Historical and Contextual Studies - learners will examine key figures involved in the development of traditional instruments, exploring how advancements in technology and shifts in social and political perspectives have influenced the evolution of the craft.
Anatomy and Design of Musical Instruments - provides underpinning knowledge of the design and anatomical construction of woodwind instruments. Museum visits will supplement this topic.
Making Specialist Tools - aims to foster professional behaviours in the organisation and use of specialist equipment, tools, materials, techniques and technologies in a practical workshop setting. Learners will be aware of how to control risks and work safely.
Applicants must be assessed via an interview that includes a practical skills test to ensure sufficient competency within the relevant fields of craftsmanship.
This diagnostic assessment is part of the admissions process and aims to identify attributes or skills in the learner that suggest appropriate pathways of study, or to identify learning difficulties that require support and resolution.
This form of assessment is carried out at the initial interview stage when applicants’ portfolios are examined to assess the appropriate skills and basic understanding required for their choice of programme.
Each learner will have two days of contact time with specialist tutors during one academic year starting in September.
There are no formal examinations for this course. Assessment is continuous and based on practical skills in making and repair, evaluated through tutor observation. In addition, a summative assessment will be completed through a portfolio of tasks completed throughout the academic year.
This is a full cost course, £4,000.
Details will be given at interview.
Attend one of our Open Days to find out more about our courses. To register please click here.
Our tutors bring considerable skills and experience as well as their understanding of current business practice and techniques, making our courses highly valued to students.