Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a real need for Piano Tuner/Technicians?
- Yes! Just click on the following link for more information: http://www.performancerecordings.com/essay.html
- Our long range goal is to foster the next generation of concert piano tuner/technicians by providing the foundation for the develpment of the skills needed to service performance instruments. Our instructors actually work with Concert Artist from around the world. There is in fact a real need for full service, high level piano technicians!
- Not long ago the statistics demonstrated that if there were no new pianos being sold, the number of existing pianos that would need continual tuing and service would exceed 10,000 per active piano tuner. When you consider that most people continue to tune their older pianos the potential for new technicians is very bright.
Who are qualified?
- First, both men and women, young and old take the course.
- You should have normal hearing. Having said that, there are some very good tuners that use hearing aids.
- You should be physically fit with normal strength, being able to lift 30lbs. or so.
- It is helpful if you have a mechanical apptitude with average finger dexterity.
- It is very important that you have a self-motivating spirit, a willingness to learn. You should have the circumstances and be able to discipline yourself to spend a minimum of 3.5 hours a week in study and practice. Six hours a week or more is ideal.
- Skills and knowledge of cabinetmaking and piano design are important for those who are interested in piano rebuilding.
Do I need a piano to practice tuning?
- Yes! And it should be in reasonable condidtion. The tuning pins should be tight and the tone should not be too bright. If the tone is too bright, we will show you how to 'voice' the piano down in such a way that it will not be permanent.
Do I need to know how to play a piano in order to tune?
- No. A musical background is not necessary. The course covers the necessary information to learn the names of the keys and the intervals used to in tuning. Playing the piano is an advantage, in that you will already be familiar with musical intervals and their relationships.
How much do Piano Technicians earn?
- That depends upon you. The price of tunings vary. In some areas, tunings range from $75 to $125. In the Washington D.C. are they range from $125 to $225. Income potential for full time, experienced tuner/technicians average between$35,000 to over $75,000 a year or more.
- Additional income may come from accessory sales, rebuilding, piano rentals, and retail sales. There are over 17 million pianos in the United States and the need for qualified piano technicians will continue to grow. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau or Labor Statistics and 1999 PTG Member Survey)
Do you discuss the business of piano tuning and repair?
- Yes, but keep in mind that this is not a course on business. For the most part I leave that to other professionals. You should seek training in the operation of a small business, financial management, taxation, marketing, and customer service. However, I do discuss the basics of what it takes to start a piano tuning business.
- Most piano tuners are in business for themselves. They set their own schedules. And, keep in mind that it takes time to build any business. Most tuners start of part time and if they desire, build it into a full time schedule. Many people have started to learn how to tune in anticipating retiremnet from their present occupation. A good piano business can be built in about 3-5 years on average.