REPAIR SERVICES
INSTRUMENT REPAIR
Servicing and repair of Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones and Oboes.
How do I know what my instrument needs?
One of the hardest jobs as a repairer is quoting for work over the phone or by email. Until I have the instrument in our hands, it can be very tricky to diagnose the problem, although an image or video of the fault can sometimes help a lot.
Generally speaking, if your instrument has a key that has suddenly stopped working or you've noticed that a small piece of cork/felt has fallen off, it may need a minor repair. This costs from £25 to £45 and covers minor pad and key adjustments. These repairs can also be booked as a 'Same Day Repair' appointment via the booking system.
I recommend that instruments are given a General Service every 18-24 months to keep them in good repair and ensuring that they are playing at their best. Servicing takes 4-5 working days to allow time for glued parts to dry and pads to settle. Approximate servicing costs are as follows:
Student Clarinets and Flutes: From £55, Open hole Flutes, Oboes and Saxophones: From £75
Please note that replacement pads are charged separately, as are Tenon corks. Servicing for advanced and pro level instruments will understandably incur higher costs. You can book a 15 minute appointment to drop off your instrument and receive a quote for the work via our booking system.
If your instrument has not been played for some time, has torn, furry or hard pads, or has been badly knocked/dropped, it may require an Overhaul. This will include dismantling and cleaning the instrument, plus replacing all pads, corks, felts etc. oiling the bore, polishing if required and, replacing springs where necessary. The price for this varies hugely between instruments so it is usually best to chat on the phone prior to booking a repair appointment.
For further information, and to book an appointment, please see our Bookings page.