Repair Technician
Suzy Farber is one of Flute Center's skilled repair technicians. She became intrigued by the trade in 2013 after watching Shelly Tanabe of Wind Player Services work on her flute. After that experience, she apprenticed with Shelly over several summers and breaks from college, mainly focusing on clarinets. She served four years with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band in San Diego where she performed on flute and piccolo throughout the US. While stationed in San Diego, she continued to learn about repairs with the instrument repair technician on staff. During that time, she also held a position as a director on the San Diego Flute Guild Board. Prior to working at Flute Center, she completed an apprenticeship at the Buffet Crampon showroom, where she began focusing solely on flute repair. Passionate about honing in her skills, she has obtained both Muramatsu and Straubinger certifications, and has completed training at the Haynes factory. Suzy previously studied flute performance at Indiana University, and later went on to earn her B.A. in music from Brooklyn College.
Fun Facts
What flute do you play?
Silver Brannen with a Lafin headjoint
What made you interested in learning flute repair?
About 10 years ago I took my flute to a repair technician to remove a dent from my headjoint. I found her workshop to be enchanting - she fixed my flute with a quiet intensity, surrounded by shelves stacked to the ceiling with tools and materials. Despite the fact that I was pursuing a degree in flute performance at the time, I knew I didn't want to make a living as a performer. It struck me that learning flute repairs would allow me to be of service to the flute community in a meaningful and fulfilling way. With all of that in mind, I asked the repair technician working on my flute if she would take me on as an apprentice, and the rest is history.
What is your favorite flute piece?
Hüe Fantaisie
Where is your favorite place to eat in NYC?
Garam Masala in Ridgewood
