Exploring Life & Business with Neil Newcomb of Atlanta ProWinds

Today we’d like to introduce you to Neil Newcomb.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a freelance musician and business owner based in the Atlanta metropolitan area. I hold a Bachelor of Music in Saxophone Performance from Kennesaw State University.

Following my graduation, I began my career as a musical instrument repair technician at a local music store, where I developed the technical expertise and professional experience that led me to establish my own company. In 2018, I founded Atlanta ProWinds, a full-service instrument repair business. Since its founding, the company has expanded to multiple retail locations throughout the metropolitan area and has built ongoing partnerships with local schools and universities.

Atlanta ProWinds has been recognized with Best of Atlanta honors consecutively since 2019. In addition to instrument repair services, I provide consultation for music retailers, insurance appraisals, and short-term instrument rentals.

In parallel with my business activities, I maintain an active performance schedule, appearing with orchestras and ensembles throughout the southeastern United States. I am also an active member of my local musicians’ union.

In my free time, I enjoy listening to records, spending time with friends, and playing with my dog.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has certainly not been smooth. Like many business owners, I have faced ongoing challenges shaped by market conditions. Economic downturns directly affect my customer base, as funding for the arts is often one of the first areas reduced when budgets tighten. These cuts have a direct impact on my business, since reduced budgets inevitably lead to fewer instrument repairs.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Atlanta ProWinds is an instrument repair shop specializing in the maintenance, repair, and customization of wind instruments. Clients seek us out for the quality of our work and the depth of our industry knowledge. I am nationally recognized for my expertise with saxophones, and woodwind players and educators from across the country both visit and recommend our services. I take great pride in my work and strive to ensure every client is satisfied. I value what I do and am committed to sharing that craft with others, as helping people make and share music is an incredibly powerful experience.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Practice. Focus. Invest early.

If you choose to work for yourself, understand that success requires constant hustle. There is no built-in insurance, retirement plan, or paid time off. If you have the opportunity to work for an employer who offers benefits, I strongly recommend considering it.

If you are repairing instruments but not actively working as a musician, that is something to address. Staying engaged in the field and sharing music firsthand is essential. It informs your work, keeps your perspective sharp, and connects you more deeply to the people you serve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.atlantaprowinds.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlprowinds/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlantaprowinds