Piano maker

The piano maker designs, manufactures, or restores instruments that combine three worlds: wood, metal, and mechanics. He shapes the structural elements (soundboard, frame, cabinet), adjusts the mechanical parts (hammers, dampers, levers), and ensures the instrument's sound quality.

In contemporary manufacturing, the steps are often divided among specialists. In restoration, the piano maker masters the entire process: carpentry, mechanics, tuning, and voicing. This demanding expertise relies on a detailed knowledge of materials, a keen sense of acoustics, and great precision in gestures.

Become a piano maker

Professional training as a piano maker is acquired through an apprenticeship and the award of a CFC (French Vocational Training Certificate). The duration is 4 years. Further training is possible.

You will find all the information on orientation.ch .

The Community of Interests of Musical Instrument Makers (CIFIM) and the Swiss Association of Piano Makers and Tuners (ASFP) collaborate with training centers to ensure the quality of teaching and promote the profession.

In Europe, for those wishing to improve their skills or specialize, several establishments offer recognized training:

• L' European Institute of Music Technology (ITEMM) – Le Mans, France, offers training ranging from vocational certificates to four-year master's degrees, covering the construction, repair, and restoration of pianos and other instruments. It is recognized as a center of innovation in the music industry.
• Oscar-Walcker-Schule – Ludwigsburg in Germany, specializes in the construction of pianos, organs and wind instruments. This school offers in-depth training, including a master's degree in piano building.
• Newark College – Newark in the UK is a centre of excellence for piano tuning, restoration and repair.

These training courses allow you to acquire internationally recognized expertise and broaden your professional prospects in the field of piano making.