The BA (Hons) Musical Instrument Craft (Woodwind Making and Repair) programme is designed to help produce skilled craftspeople who are able to repair a whole range of instruments in the woodwind family, from piccolo to saxophone.
The programme aims to introduce the precise skills needed which are taught in our well-equipped workshop.
The course has a making component which has traditionally focused on the manufacture of a Boehm system clarinet, in more recent years we have diversified and students have also made oboes, flutes, bassoons and even soprano saxophones all from basic raw materials. The work on these projects starts in the second year and culminates in the third year with the student's final major project.
The programme is housed on the Newark campus, providing easy access to computer facilities, specialist books and other College amenities.
The programme has excellent links with industry. Companies regularly contact the College to offer employment opportunities. Previous graduates have gone on to work for a wide range of instrument manufacturers and repairers. Many have also started their own successful businesses, and in turn provide employment for other students as they graduate.
Full-time students should apply directly through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). It may be possible to study on a part-time basis, consult with the College at the time of your application.
Anatomy and Design
Basic Techniques
Workshop Practice
Making Specialist Tools 1
Historical and Contextual Studies
Core Modules:
Applied Acoustics
Problem Solving
Making Specialist Tools 2
Optional Modules:
Repair Techniques (Clarinet Family)
Repair Techniques (Flute Family)
Repair Techniques (Saxophone Family)
Repair Techniques (Double Reed Family)
Repair Techniques (Brass Instrument Family)
Making Techniques
Making Techniques (Metal Bodied)
Business Practice
Advanced Craft Techniques
Professional Standards Test
Final Major Project Preparation
Final Major Project Realisation
A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points from the following: GCE A and AS Levels with at least one subject at A Level. BTEC National (Diploma or Extended Diploma) in a relevant subject. Scottish Higher / Advanced Higher with at least one subject at Advanced Higher. We consider experience and practical skills in lieu of A Levels/BTECs.
Plus: GCSE English – grade C/4 or above and GCSE Maths – grade C/4 or above (Level 2 Functional skills is not taken as an equivalent).
EU and International applicants: NARIC confirmed equivalent of 48 UCAS points IELTS with an overall score of 6.0 and a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Equivalent English language qualifications may be acceptable for applicants requiring a visa.
Other Entry Requirements
Successful interview
The assessment methods typically used throughout the programme include: assessment of practical work supported by a portfolio of notes and research.
Following completion of this programme students may wish to pursue further academic study in Music or seek employment or self-employment in the industry. Students can be introduced to these opportunities throughout their undergraduate programme.
Full-Time Per Academic Year Home Students - £8,500
Full-Time Per Academic Year International Students - £9,500
Tuition fees will remain unchanged for the duration of a student’s continuous enrolment. Additional compulsory course costs can be paid for using the Career Degree Bursary.
The Career Degree bursary was established in order to enhance our Higher Education students’ academic programme and support their studies - helping to make our students more employable, industry prepared and equipped for life as a graduate.
The Career Degree bursary is made up of two components:
1. A bursary of up to £500 for full-time students and up to £250 for part-time students over the course of their higher education programme to support any aspect of independent study, such as equipment, books etc.
2. In addition, course coordinators will be allocated an additional payment to spend each academic year on enhancements that will support the development of employability skills and progression to graduate level employment. Students are encouraged to discuss ideas on how this can be spent with their tutors.
There is no cash alternative. Students who wish to access opportunities in excess of the Career Degree Bursary may do so at full cost to themselves. Please see the full ‘HE Terms and Conditions’ for details of additional library and printing costs associated with this programme.
A cash prize of £1,000 will be offered to one outstanding graduating student in each pathway on the Musical Instrument Crafts degree.
The prize is from a generous donation from The ACH Crisford Charitable Foundation who set up the scheme to support our learners and recognise the unique nature of these courses. The award will be judged by staff.
Newark College are grateful to the Trust for this new collaboration and hope our learners will benefit hugely from this.
Woodwind & Brass Specialists, Dawkes Music, kindly sponsor our annual celebration event held to recognise the achievements of the graduating woodwind students. Each graduate receives a £100 credit prize, with one receiving a £500 'Woodwind Cup' credit prize for their hard work and determination over the three-year degree course.
Kit Brennan | Graduate of Woodwind Making and Repair, 2021
“I definitely grew a lot as a person on the course and learned a lot, even more than I expected.
I’m hoping to get into the restoration of old instruments as well as repair – especially doing the musical service instruments for kids at schools who might not otherwise have a chance to learn.
The graduation has been amazing. I have a real appreciation for the history and the grandeur of a building like Lincoln Cathedral. It’s gorgeous and it really sets the tone for the graduation and made my achievement at the College feel really special.
I really recommend the course. My advice for future students is quite earnest and that is don’t be too proud to ask for help if you need it in all facets of your education and time at College. My tutors have been really supportive.”
Read more alumni profiles on our Alumni page, here.
This course is validated by the University of Hull. The validating institution is responsible for awarding the qualification at the end of the programme. Students on validated courses are OfS registered, funded and taught at Lincoln College and it is the responsibility of the College to manage all aspects of this provision. The validating institution maintains an oversight of the programme throughout the academic year and must be satisfied that students are being taught in line with the required academic standards of the awarding institution.
For full details and information of the responsibilities and conditions of study of both Lincoln College and the validating partners please see the T&Cs and Policies sections which can be found here.
Attend one of our Career Degree Open Days to find out more about our degrees. To register please click here.
The School of Musical Instrument Crafts degree programmes, part of Lincoln College University Centre.
Our tutors bring considerable skills and experience as well as their understanding of current business practice and techniques, making our courses highly valued to students.