Piano tuning is often misunderstood. For example, many believe that piano tuning is a simple matter of bringing the strings to a predetermined frequency. Many have assumed that piano tuning is based on a simple mathematical model developed over a hundred years ago.
However, we’ve learned a lot since the first scientific model was developed. Traditional tuning theory does not account for inharmonicity. What is inharmonicity? It’s the phenomenon where the vibrating frequencies of a vibrating string do not align with the exact whole-number multiples of its fundamental frequency. Traditional theory ignores the decay and coupling mechanisms that are present in all pianos. The 21st-century piano tuner must also recognize the psycho-acoustic effects and falseness, which are a ubiquitous part of piano tone behavior.
Having said that, without the initial support of science and theoretical models of the past, we could never have developed the core techniques for the precise tuning of high-tension instruments. Science is a wonderful tool for exploring and illustrating an art like piano tuning, but it is not a method for proving how an art is or how it should be.
The art of piano tuning is not merely the efficient application of techniques or theory, or technical procedures. The master tuner is an audiophile of piano tone, working in a musical context, whose techniques, as in any art, are merely the means to an end that is definitely well beyond those techniques. Therefore, the art of piano tuning is best taught by those who are adept at the art of piano tuning and its theory.
Our school is dedicated to preserving the “art” of piano tuning. We will do our best to help you develop your aural accuity to master this wonderful profession. We understand that piano tuning is as much a question for the arts and humanities as it is for the sciences.
If you cannot afford, in time or money, to attend a one or two-year program at a residential school for piano technology, our school is your best alternative. There isn't another school I am aware of that provides the personal, timely, and comprehensive instruction, particularly in aural tuning, that you will receive here. Because we can stream high-quality audio via the internet, we can hear and see you work through your aural tuning exercises. It's very reassuring to know that you're making the most of the time you spend at the piano learning this skill.
The Art of Aural Tuning is such a rewarding skill to develop, and there's a demand for good tuners today! Let us help you become a respected, professional piano technician!
