Band Instrument Repair

Don’t miss one of VanderCook’s most popular courses! Watch your instrument repair bills disappear after learning the basics of woodwind and brass instrument repair. Bringing a flute, clarinet or French horn for basic repair assignments is recommended although all types of band instruments are welcome. Old clothes are highly recommended and closed-toe shoes are required. This course is open to both beginning and advanced students.

Instructors: Gary Everett & Bill Rife

Gary Everett (MMEd ’99) currently serves as a band director in the Oak Creek/Franklin Joint School District in Oak Creek, WI. He also served as music department co-chair for the district for many years. He previously held the position of chief tester at the G. LeBlanc Corporation’s headquarters in Kenosha, WI, where he was responsible for final inspection, repairs, final regulation and play-testing of all woodwind instruments before distribution. Everett also coordinated with visiting professional musicians, represented LeBlanc at area trade shows, and was a speaker during factory tours. Everett is owner and head technician of Everett Piano Services, a business dedicated to tuning, repair and restoration of pianos and related keyboard instruments. He is a professional-level member of the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT), an associate member of the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG), and has been associated with the American Music Educators Repair Association (AMERA).

 

Everett has taught numerous repair clinics, lectured and served as an onsite repair technician for multiple school districts and colleges. Everett is active in the local music community as a musician for area bands, show bands and orchestras, including the Kenosha Pop's Concert Band. Everett holds a bachelor's degree in instrumental music education from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, and a master's degree in instrumental music education from VanderCook.

 

 

Bill Rife was chosen by Dr. Victor Zajac to teach the brass segment of Band Instrument Repair at VanderCook, and has taught since 2004. He has been a member of the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT) since 2010. With a background in tool and die, coupled with his love for music, Rife provided brass repairs for Divine Infant and Divine Providence school bands (of Westchester, IL) from 2003 to 2012. Rife played with the Chicago Youth Organization (CYO) for over 20 years, and is currently a member of the American Wind Band (formerly the Westchester Community Band) in the southwest suburbs, as well as the West Suburban Concert Band in LaGrange, IL. He has also performed with a ‘60s and ‘70s cover-band, Scraps of Brass, since 2010.