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CIP 47.0404 Mechanic and Repair Technologies

Musical Instrument Fabrication and Repair

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

16

2025 · 4 schools

International share

0.0%

0 international students

Overview

Musical Instrument Fabrication and Repair is a specialized field that combines artistry, craftsmanship, and technical skills to create, maintain, and restore musical instruments. This program typically covers a wide range of instruments, including string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments, offering students a comprehensive understanding of each type’s unique construction and mechanics.

Students in this program learn about the materials used in instrument making, such as wood, metal, and synthetic materials, as well as the tools and techniques necessary for both fabrication and repair. The curriculum often includes hands-on training in woodworking, metalworking, and acoustics, enabling students to develop practical skills that are crucial for building high-quality instruments.

In addition to technical skills, the program emphasizes the importance of aesthetics and sound quality, teaching students how to create instruments that not only look beautiful but also produce exceptional sound. Students are often encouraged to explore their creativity, experimenting with design and construction methods to develop their unique style.

Career opportunities in this field are diverse, ranging from working in custom instrument shops to restoring historical instruments in museums. Graduates may also find roles as instrument technicians for orchestras or bands, or even start their own businesses. The demand for skilled instrument makers and repairers continues to grow as musicians seek high-quality, personalized instruments that meet their specific needs and preferences. Overall, Musical Instrument Fabrication and Repair is a rewarding profession for those passionate about music and craftsmanship.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2002 to 2025, graduates grew 129% and the international share went from 0.0% to 0.0%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
75.0%
Asian
0.0%
Hispanic
12.5%
Black
0.0%
Other
12.5%
Intl.
0.0%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 4 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Western Iowa Tech Community College Iowa 5 0
— Renton Technical College Washington 5 0
— Minnesota State College Southeast Minnesota 4 0
— De Anza College California 2 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners 5,380 $24.02 $49,960

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.