Master Luthier

🎻 Master Luthier

Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Job Type: Full-Time | Pay: Competitive depending on Mastery

About the Role

A well-established orchestral brand is a distinguished orchestral instrument brand known for impeccable craftsmanship and service. Our workshop in Ann Arbor is committed to excellence in restoring, maintaining, and customizing violins, violas, cellos, and other orchestral string instruments. We believe in elevating artistry through mentorship, precision, and passionate dedication to every instrument and player we serve.

We seek a Master Luthier to lead our in-house restoration and repair workshop. You will be responsible not only for executing high-end repairs and restorations but also for mentoring less experienced luthiers, overseeing quality control, refining workshop processes, and ensuring instruments meet the highest tonal, aesthetic, and structural standards. This is a leadership role that combines advanced technical mastery with vision, oversight, and ownership over your craft and team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, oversee, and complete complex restorations of violins, violas, cellos, including structural repairs (cracks, soundpost issues, warps), re-graduation, varnish work, and restoration of antique instruments.

• Perform master-level setups and adjustments: bridges, soundposts, fittings (tailpieces, chinrests, pegs), windings, purfling, and instrument anatomy modifications to optimize sound and playability.

• Diagnose mechanical, acoustic, and cosmetic issues with precision, propose restorative or upgrade solutions, and prepare detailed estimates.

• Undertake fine work: finish work, varnish match/restoration, purfling restoration, wood restoration, inlays, preserving or enhancing instrument aesthetics without compromising integrity.

• Maintain rigorous quality control: final inspection of tone, playability, aesthetics, fit & finish, longevity; ensure all work complies with workshop standards.

• Mentor, train, and provide technical guidance to junior luthiers and apprentices; assist in developing training materials, best practices, and techniques.

• Manage workshop workflow: plan, prioritize, schedule jobs; ensure efficient use of tools, materials, and time without sacrificing quality.

• Maintain and care for all tools and equipment; ensure the workshop meets safety, climate, humidity control, and environmental standards.

• Keep detailed records of repair histories, materials used, work done, and feedback.

• Liaise with musicians, clients, and educators: communicate recommendations, cost and time estimates, and explain trade-offs in repair/restoration options.

Master Level Qualifications & Skills

• Extensive experience (at least 7-10 years) in instrument repair/restoration, particularly with violins, violas, and cellos. Proven history of hands-on restoration of older/antique instruments.

• Formal training in lutherie, violin family instrument restoration, or equivalent apprenticeship or mentorship under a recognized master.

• Demonstrated mastery with tools, finishes, woods (including pernambuco, spruce, maple, etc.), varnishes, adhesives, and historic instrument techniques.

• Strong acoustic sense: ability to evaluate and refine sound, tone, projection, and articulation through setup and restoration.

• Exceptional manual dexterity, attention to detail, and artistic skill for aesthetic/cosmetic work (varnish, woodwork, finish).

• Leadership or supervisory experience: ability to guide junior team members, manage complex jobs, and ensure consistency.

• Strong client-facing communication skills: explaining technical information clearly, giving options, and managing expectations.

• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple jobs, and maintain timelines while preserving quality.

• Knowledge of preservation best practices: humidity control, materials’ aging, safe methods for finishing, cleaning, and conservation.

What Sets You Apart as a Master

• Portfolio of high-quality restorations and master setups. Before/after photos or case studies are a plus.

• Experience with rare, historic, or highly prized instruments.

• Innovation in repair techniques (e.g., working with modern materials or hybrid approaches to restoration).

• Deep commitment to craftsmanship ethics: honesty, protecting instrument value, and preservation of original work where possible.

Compensation & Benefits

• Highly competitive salary reflecting master-level skill, responsibility, and craftsmanship. Scaled to experience.

• Bonus or incentive for exceptional restorations or benchmarks.

• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision; 401(k) with match; life & disability insurance.

• Generous paid time off, holidays.

• Employee discounts on instruments and accessories.

• Professional development: workshops, conferences, specialized training, and opportunities to attend specialist restoration seminars.

• Access to high-quality tools, materials, and a well-equipped workshop with an ideal work environment (climate control, lighting, humidity, etc.).

Why You’ll Love This Opportunity

• Be part of a collaborative, artisan workshop where precision and musicianship are celebrated

• Work with a dedicated team focused on preparing beautiful instruments for players of all levels

• Access professional tools, mentorship, and skill development opportunities

• Directly contribute to the musical journeys of students, educators, and performers

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, gender identity, or other protected characteristic, will receive consideration for employment.