The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word SAX
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
S
A
X
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Music-maker" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case music-maker = sax.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SAX mean?
SAX noun- A slate-cutter's hammer; slate-ax.
- A knife or sword; a dagger about 50 cm (20 inches) in length.
- To cut or slash with a sharp instrument; incise; scarify.
- A single-reed instrument musical instrument of the woodwind family, usually made of brass and with a distinctive loop bringing the bell upwards.