An improved method and apparatus for safely and securely holding and manipulating a musical instrument for construction or repair, the apparatus for which consists of a base, a pedestal upstanding from the base having an associated vertically adjustable post, an instrument support assembly including an instrument support plate mountable thereon; a holder mounted atop the pedestal for holding the instrument support assembly; clamps for attaching an instrument to the instrument support assembly; a pivot for supporting the instrument support assembly about a vertical axis; a pivot for rotating the instrument support assembly about an axis normal to the face of the support plate; and a gear for rotating the instrument support assembly about a horizontal axis.