Newark College offering a one-of-a-kind piano tuning and repair degree course, training the next generation of the piano technicians

Students are being given the opportunity to study a one-of-a-kind course which teaches traditional crafts and offers a specialised pathway into the music industry.

The School of Music Instrument Crafts, run by Newark College, is unique in offering a BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft in Piano Tuning and Repair, which is the only degree course of its kind in the country.

Students travel from across the UK and internationally to study at the college, and once they have completed their degrees will become the next generation of Piano Tuners and Technicians.

Musical Instrument Crafts have been taught since 1972, across specialised pathways in piano, violin, guitar and woodwind.

The school has gained global reputation and excellent connections within industry, allowing students to pursue the craft they love while gaining high-quality practical skills from practicing professionals.

Piano Tuning and Repair Course coordinator and tutor, Simon Topping, said: “The BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Crafts (Piano Tuning and Repair) course is unique in that it is designed for those who wish to work in the piano industry as a tuner or technician.

“The course aims to prepare learners with the skills needed to join the piano trade.

"At the piano school, which is close to the main Newark College campus, we have well-appointed facilities boasting 16 individual tuning rooms, containing more than fifty pianos - which are used exclusively for piano tuning practice.

“Our students can take advantage of workshops which are fitted with tailored workbenches. We also have a huge variety of trade-specific tools, materials and parts available along with numerous and varied types of upright and grand pianos.”

This all ensures that students have the opportunity to gain a wealth of practical experience in all aspects of piano tuning, restoration and repair.

Simon added: “We have a great programme of visiting industry speakers here too. Our strong links with industry means we have guests sharing their experience from some of the most respected trade organisations and suppliers.”

Piano Tuning and Repair graduate, Ronan Logue, said: “I have always had an interest in music, especially piano.

“what I’ve enjoyed most is how practical the course is. Plus, the experience I've gained, the knowledge about pianos and seeing the many different types of pianos.”

Current Piano Tuning and Repair student, Honor Flanagan, said: “Newark has the only piano tuning and restoration course in the UK.

“The course tutors are industry experienced in tuning standards and restoration. Other subject areas that we take part in such as engineering, acoustics and business studies complement the main skills being learned.

“It's an amazing opportunity to learn from the best.”

To find out more about the course and apply for September entry, visit the Musical Instrument Crafts website.