The traditional method of tuning an instrument was a well-trained ear and a set of tuning forks: The technician would strike or pluck a string, for example, and compare it to the reference pitch of the fork. That method still works, although many technicians today use electronic devices that give precise readouts on the frequency of an instrument’s sound. To adjust a piano, for example, a tuner strikes a key and compares the sound to the matching tuning fork; using a special lever or wrench, the tuner tightens or loosens the strings. A standard piano has 88 keys and 230 strings; a typical tuning session requires about 90 minutes.
Piano repair begins with checking the action of the mechanical linkages between the keys and the hammers. Minor repairs can be accomplished by cleaning or replacing worn parts; major repairs usually require removal of the piano to a workshop and a complete or partial disassembly. Guitar technicians work to repair and replace tuning pegs, saddle, and bridge. They may also repair minor damage to the body and restring the instrument. The final step is to precisely tune the strings. Repairs and tuning techniques for violins are similar to those for guitars; the technician may also fill in scratches and apply a fresh coat of appropriate varnish.
For brass and woodwind instruments, the technician checks the condition of keys, pistons, and other parts; if they cannot be repaired, they can usually be replaced. Repairs to percussion instruments, including drum sets, require woodworking and metalworking skills in addition to musical training. Basic tuning is usually charged at a flat rate. Repairs are charged at an hourly rate plus the cost of parts and materials; you should be able to purchase parts at wholesale or discount prices and resell them to your customers at retail prices.
All of us can appreciate a beautiful piece of jewelry. Even more impressive is a one-of-a-kind or customized piece. The job of jewelry maker works to design and produce handcrafted necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, and beaded or jeweled purses. Besides that, the jewelry maker also customizes off-the-shelf jewelry and purses to the specifications of customers. The market for this sort of work is someone who wants something different from the standard offerings of retail stores.