I grew up in Norway and I originally moved to the UK to study this age old craft called instrument making and repair.
I studied at the internationally renowned Newark College, completing their Woodwind Instruments: Making and Repair course. I received a level 3 qualification in engineering operations, which taught me metal work and tool making on top of the instrument repair. I've played flute most of my life and therefore studied flute making as my final year project.
Whilst studying I met my partner, a passionate piano tuner, and just like that I decided to stay.
I've worked a steady job in a good workshop while supporting my partner in building his business, but I have always wanted to start my own workshop - a workshop built by me, from the ground up.
This year I started my dream. I opened my workshop this summer taking on woodwind servicing and repair. I got such lovely feedback from customers that I wish I was set up to do more! That's why I'm crowdfunding. I aim to one day cater for all wind players - brass and woodwind players alike.
I want to provide a tailored service where the player feels like they are not left in the dark, but involved in the process. I want my workshop to help musicians to get their instrument "just right" - An individual approach to each instrument and each player.
I aim to tackle any repair, large or small, and use my engineering knowledge to make parts or tools when needed.
The money raised would provide tools and equipment for my workshop. I would invest in hand tools, materials, dent tools and a lathe for engineering work. Owning more of my own tools will give me the opportunity to offer a higher level of repair which will benefit players for years to come.
I have a colleague who is retiring this year and I would take on as much as possible of his tools, to give them yet another lifetime of use.
Are you a player yourself, or maybe you know a special musician you'd like to spoil? If you pledge now you can claim a reduced rate next time you or your friend come by the workshop.
For £20 you're guaranteed 20% off the labour cost of your next service. That means you can save as much as £100 depending on what level of service the instrument needs! For £10 I'll take 10% off - it's as easy as that.
The relationship between a player and their instrument is something special. There's nothing like that moment when a player picks up their instrument to give it that first test after an overhaul... That look on a student's face when they open up the case of their freshly polished Flute, or the face of a Sax player when they recognise the particular sound of the instrument they once fell in love with is worth dedicating a life work to.
I want to give players what they deserve - to love their instrument again. I want to aid players in making great music. And I hope you want to enable me to do so!
Thanks for reading.
All the best,
Sun
