Piano | Samford University

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 49-9063.00

Skills

Quality Control AnalysisRepairingTroubleshootingCritical ThinkingJudgment and Decision MakingService OrientationComplex Problem SolvingReading Comprehension

Knowledge

Customer and Personal ServiceMechanicalFine ArtsEnglish Language

Abilities

Hearing SensitivityArm-Hand SteadinessManual DexterityFinger DexterityNear VisionControl PrecisionAuditory AttentionProblem SensitivityVisualizationDeductive Reasoning

Tasks

Adjust string tensions to tune instruments, using hand tools and electronic tuning devices.
Compare instrument pitches with tuning tool pitches to tune instruments.
Play instruments to evaluate their sound quality and to locate any defects.
Adjust the neck angle on fretted instruments.

Technology

Analytical or scientific software

Tools

Action regulatorsAdjustable C clampsAdjustable fret slotting sawsAgraffe removersAir dusting gunsAir hosesAlcohol lampsAlignment jigsAllen wrenchesAlligator forcepsArborsArch punchesAutomated sprayersBall-end hex keysBand clamps

Work Values

AchievementIndependenceWorking ConditionsRecognitionRelationshipsSupport

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: medium49-9063.00	Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners	title_inference	—	—	—

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: proficient (Level 3)(based on Bachelor's Degree)

Full-scope instrument inspections across multiple instrument families — conduct autonomously to determine defect locations, restoration requirements, and monetary value in a professional repair shop or museum context.
Complex intonation problems on orchestral strings, woodwinds, and brass — diagnose and resolve independently using advanced listening skills, precision measuring tools, and electronic analysis software.
Non-routine structural repairs such as cracked instrument bodies, collapsed soundboards, and re-necking — plan and execute with high craftsmanship standards using hand tools, lathes, and custom-fabricated parts.
Custom part fabrication from raw materials — perform using lathes, files, and soldering irons to produce replacements that are no longer commercially available, restoring historical or high-value instruments.
Complete disassembly, overhaul, and reassembly cycles on complex mechanisms — manage for instruments such as pipe organs, pedal harps, or grand pianos without reference to standard protocols.
Tonal and acoustical improvements — achieve by selectively reshaping bridges, bores, and reeds based on player feedback and scientific listening evaluation across a broad instrument portfolio.
Technical instrument specifications and manufacturer service literature — interpret and apply in full to inform repair decisions on professional-grade and vintage instruments.
Analytical or scientific software for pitch and waveform analysis — utilize independently to quantify tonal defects and validate repair outcomes on complex acoustic systems.
Customer consultation on high-value restoration decisions — lead with professional authority, presenting detailed condition assessments and repair-versus-replacement recommendations in a shop or gallery environment.
Time and workflow management across a multi-instrument repair queue — execute autonomously to meet promised delivery dates while maintaining quality standards in a high-volume independent or institutional shop.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.