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Musical Instrument Maker (Musikinstrumentenerzeuger)
GewO §94 Z.46
Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade (Handwerk)
- Qualification: Master exam (Meisterpruefung)
- Registration cost: Free (€0)
- Scope: All instrument types (strings, wind, keyboard, percussion)
- Note: Includes repair, restoration, and piano tuning
What This Trade Covers
- Handcrafted instrument construction (violins, guitars, flutes, etc.)
- Piano and organ building
- Instrument repair and restoration
- Piano tuning and voicing
- Custom modifications and setup work
Repair vs. Retail
Simply selling finished instruments (music shop) is a free trade. The
regulated license is needed for manufacturing, repair, and restoration
work that requires craft knowledge.
Qualification Alternatives
- Master exam (Meisterpruefung) for instrument makers
- Relevant education (e.g., luthier school) + practical experience
- Individual assessment (§19 GewO) with documented expertise
- Qualified manager (§39 GewO) who holds the qualification
Related Guides
Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.