Bow Rehairing

Term from Instrument Repair industry explained for recruiters

Bow rehairing is an essential maintenance service for string instruments like violins, cellos, and violas. It involves replacing the horsehair on instrument bows when it becomes worn out or damaged. This is a specialized skill where technicians remove old horsehair and install new hair while maintaining proper tension and alignment. Think of it like replacing the bristles on a very precise, expensive brush that musicians use to make sound from their instruments. Without proper bow hair, musicians cannot produce the right sound quality, making this service crucial for both professional musicians and students.

Examples in Resumes

Performed over 500 Bow Rehairing services for professional orchestra members

Specialized in Bow Rehair techniques for antique and valuable bows

Managed workshop scheduling for Bow Hair Replacement and other repair services

Typical job title: "Bow Repair Technicians"

Also try searching for:

String Instrument Repair Technician Violin Bow Specialist Musical Instrument Repair Technician Bow Maker Luthier Stringed Instrument Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle repairs on valuable antique bows?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss assessment procedures, documentation, special handling techniques, and communication with clients about risks and value preservation. They should mention experience with different historical bow styles and materials.

Q: What factors do you consider when selecting hair for different types of bows?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they choose hair quality based on the bow's purpose (professional vs student), climate considerations, and player preferences. Should discuss hair sorting and preparation techniques.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What is your process for ensuring proper tension in a rehaired bow?

Expected Answer: Should describe the steps of measuring and adjusting hair length, proper knot tying techniques, and testing the finished product for even tension and playability.

Q: How do you handle customer complaints about a recently rehaired bow?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their troubleshooting process, customer service approach, and ability to make adjustments to meet player preferences while maintaining proper technique.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in the bow rehairing process?

Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the fundamental steps: removing old hair, cleaning the bow, preparing new hair, securing ends, and finishing procedures.

Q: What tools are essential for bow rehairing?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic tools like knife, pliers, combs, and wedge materials, and explain their proper use in the rehairing process.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic bow rehairing on student instruments
  • Tool maintenance and workspace organization
  • Understanding of horsehair qualities
  • Basic customer service skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Professional-level bow rehairing
  • Minor bow repairs and adjustments
  • Quality control assessment
  • Customer consultation skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Antique and valuable bow restoration
  • Advanced repair techniques
  • Training and supervision of junior technicians
  • Workshop management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with actual bow rehairing
  • Lack of knowledge about different bow types and their specific needs
  • Poor attention to detail or rushed work habits
  • No understanding of proper tool maintenance