Repair
Services
OUR SERVICES
WRS is a full service woodwind repair shop specializing in Clarinets, Saxophones, and Flutes. Whether you need a complete overhaul, or a simple adjustment, WRS has the tools and expertise to meet your needs. Estimates are free, so don't hesitate to stop in with your troubled instrument. Below are some of the terms used when describing repair procedures.
- "Play Condition Repair", or "P/C" - We will do what is necessary to get your horn fixed and get you playing again quickly. Perhaps a pad is torn, or a key got bent. Whatever the reason, your instrument was working and now it is not. Please bring in your instrument for an estimate and discuss repairs. We take pride in achieving fine tolerances and high standards on even the smallest repair. Prices will vary due to the extent of repair needed. Our general Rule is if over half of your pads are damaged
- "Minor Adjustment", or "Tune-up" - This typically involves regulating the key mechanisms, checking spring tension, cleaning pads or tone holes, and making precise adjustments to pad placement. This type of repair is best suited for individuals who need to maintain their instrument at a high level at all times. Chances are if you haven't walked into a shop in six months or more, your instrument will noticeably benefit from this "check-up" procedure.
- "Full Re-pad/Overhaul" - We take our high standards to the next level in every instrument overhaul performed. When an instrument is worn from age or heavy use, the best course of action is to request our full service repad/overhaul. Every piece of your instrument is carefully disassembled and cleaned, this includes chemical cleaning and polishing of all metal, complete cleaning of the instrument body (oil soaking for wood clarinets), and key fitting. After every piece of your instrument is pristine we begin the reassembly process, using pads we have carefully vetted for quality and durability, as well as new corks and felts for perfect quiet motion. Critically precise padding is key for long lasting playability, and WRS takes the time to set and adjust pads over multiple stages in order to ensure a vacuum tight seal. Your instrument will return to you looking factory fresh, and playing better than new. Prices will vary by instrument, and by the caliber of the instrument being overhauled.
- Some shops will separate out Repad and Overhaul into Separate categories. We believe that if we are going to touch every pad and every key, your instrument deserves the highest level treatment we can offer. However in some cases there will be work required that goes beyond the scope of a traditional full service. Cracks and heavy key damage can incur additional costs, but by no means make your instrument beyond repair. Contact us, or drop in for an estimate.
Specialty Services
In addition to the typical services offered, WRS also specializes in specific repair services typically reserved for professional musicians. Below is a list of some of the specialty services we offer. Please call for more information, or if you require a service not listed here.
- Tone Hole Surfacing on Clarinet and Saxophone
- Hand-fitted hinge rod replacements for loose keys (specifically important for the R-hand stack in Buffet R-13's)
- Crack pinning and filling for clarinets, and even some wooden flutes.
- Tone hole insert replacements for wooden clarinets
- Key System Modification/Customization (relocating keys for ease of reach, key extensions) Inquire if interested.