Rebuilding Seminar
(E) The Business of Rebuilding - Ralph Onesti, Ralph Joseph Onesti Piano
Restorations
Rebuilding a piano is a difficult and tedious process, especially if one
approaches it at the highest level. However, the qualified rebuilder soon learns
that the actual rebuilding process is overshadowed by the mechanics of the
business end.
Topics will include: rebuilding time; evaluations; contracts; payment
schedules; profit structure; sales; contracting vs. sub-contracting; The
different approaches to warranties; Rebuilding client relations. This class is
for anyone either already in the rebuilding business, or those thinking of
getting into that end of the business. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Efficient Destringing & Restringing - Jack Krefting, Ludlow, KY
Taking notes on existing side bearing, down bearing, bridge roll, crown, over
centering, scaling, aliquot placement, bass strings patterns, and individual
string loops or other unusual string/hitch pin patterns; two ways to relocate
the plate; and string replacement, in a fast efficient manner. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Grand Piano Pinblock Replacement - Alan Vincent, Geneva International
This class deals with the basic information about pinblock material, replacement
and drilling. Slides will be used to illustrate the total process. An overview
of pinblock types and drill bits will also be presented. (1 1/2 hours)
(IA) Jigs, Fixtures and Tooling for the Serious Rebuilder - Shawn Hoar, Shawn's
Pianos
No rebuilding shop is complete without the knowledge to make jigs and fixtures
to make fine woodworking repairs and installations. Shawn will show you how to
make and use them. Many jigs and fixtures will be shown including a duplicator
router to fit the top of the pinblock to the plate and shape the bridges to the
plate while they are in the piano. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Replacing the Fully Fit Grand Pinblock - Andre Bolduc, Bolduc Pianos
Andre is a skilled wood technologist and producer of fine pinblocks and
soundboards for the trade. Here he presents practical and simple procedures to
remove, bore, and re-install new fully-fit pinblocks in grand pianos. Of special
interest is Andre's new tool that makes removing Steinway-style pinblocks a
snap. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Soundboard and Bridge Replacement - Start to Finish, David Betts, North
Bennet Street School
A thorough step-by-step procedure for replacing a soundboard, recapping the
bridges, setting downbearing, notching the bridges, and resetting the plate. All
jigs used will be shown including ones used in making a bellyboard, cutting a
radius in ribs, and feathering the ribs. There will be a lengthy handout for
those who attend. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Soundboard Repairs and Refinishing - David Vanderlip, Orange County, CA
Chapter
This class will cover soundboard repairs including shimming techniques with hand
and power tools, rib repair, scraping, and refinishing. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Teardown and Re-assembly/Downbearing - Nick Gravagne, New Mexico Chapter
In a major rebuilding project the initial teardown phase should receive as much
attention as any other part of the job. Paperwork and note-keeping are important
but should be simple and handy. Sample forms will be on hand. Particular
attention will be paid to plate and pinblock location (keep it simple!),
downbearing, and action considerations. And an added bonus! A video of a
Steinway plate being installed and manipulated for bearing. If you're into shop
work, don't miss this class! (1 1/2 hours)
Service & Repair Classes
(E) 50 Ways to Make More Money Now! - Bruce Genck, Twin Cities, MN Chapter
Beginners or Pros...This loaded, rapid fire class will give you 50 shots to
bulls-eye your bottom line number. Easy to implement ideas for the field, shop,
and office. Take aim and start increasing your income immediately! (What's
unique?) Lots of information in a short period.
If you're not cranking out the income you'd like, maybe it's time for a
jump start! You'll walk away from this class charged up and ready to go. We'll
talk about different sources of income and how to tap them, fee rates, promoting
yourself, working more efficiently, ways to save money, and much, much more!
This is four classes rolled into one compact package. It's not that difficult to
make more money ... I'll show you! (1 1/2 hours)
(E) 90 Practical Tips for In-Home Repairs - David Patterson, Toronto, ON Chapter
How to be more effective immediately without buying or making tools, changing
habits or taking up more time. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Combining Excellence in Customer Relations and Piano Service - Kevin Stock,
Steinway & Sons
This presentation addresses important issues of effective, professional
communication, appearance and behavior, followed with the demonstration of
quality service tips. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Home & Shop Repairs - The Easy Way - Webb Phillips, Webb Phillips &
Associates
Correcting vertical capstans and balance rails in seconds. Adding a birds-eye.
Repairing broken Acrosonic stickers. Bench, piano top and lid hinge repairs, in
shop or home. Excellent parts inventory numbering system. Repairing stripped
screw holes. Practical tool tips. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Intelligent Troubleshooting Techniques - Dean Garten, Samick Music Corp.
What is troubleshooting? How can you improve your diagnostic skills and gain
confidence in your technical abilities? How can the manufacturer help you? These
questions and more will be answered in this class. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Meeting the Service Needs of the Vertical Piano - Kent Webb, Baldwin
Kent will discuss the various problems, causes, and repair techniques associated
with the vertical piano. Included will be noise diagnosis, regulation tips,
touch analysis, and other items we encounter in our service schedules. The
vertical piano is still the most commonly encountered piano we service today. Be
sure not to miss this essential class on an important aspect of our market. (1
1/2 hours)
(E) Pedaling From the Ground Up - Joyce Meekins, Washington, DC Chapter
Technicians often overlook the crucial role pedals play in giving the pianist
optimum control of the piano. Beginning with an analytical overview of pedal
systems in grands and verticals, we will go on to consider ways in which the
technician can offer individual players maximum pedal control. Factors we will
examine include the pianist, different pedaling styles, the size of the
pianist's foot, and the impact of one's foot position. Players caught on video
in the act of pedaling will be shown and discussed. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Full-Service Piano Prepping - Nick Gravagne, New Mexico Chapter
Many piano customers would gladly agree to one or two days of your work if you
could clearly explain WHY the work is necessary, and what the cost will be.
Prepared customer forms (which will be handed out for you to copy) will not only
convince your customer that you are routinely engaged in this kind of work, but
will also generate confidence in your skill and professionalism.
What does it take to "bring a piano up?" Learn the absolute "musts" of
voicing and hammer shaping as Nick demonstrates the use of tools and techniques.
No mystery here! For the average customer, what items of work can be ignored or
put off to a future date? Finally, learn to "read" a piano quickly with the aid
of checklists (which will be handed out.) (3 hours)
(E) Pushing the Limits (and Distance) of On-Site Piano Service - Jim Harvey,
Western Carolinas Chapter
Whether your service business includes some in-home service, warranty repairs,
or institutional work, this class promises guidance in achieving your goals.
Concentrating on things that can be accomplished, while on the road, the class
begins with how to plan. The discussion continues with suggestions on what to
carry with you. New twists for traditional tools and methods are explored, as
are some innovative homemade devices. In addition, Jim will present examples of
actual warranty situations, and the methods used to correct them. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Secrets of the Super Glues - Ed Dryburgh, Dryburgh Adhesives
Ed gives an overview of the specific uses and applications for cyanoacrylate
adhesives in your piano business. Learn how to cut time and even generate
business while offering quality and long lasting repairs. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Seven Keys to New Piano Prep - Phil Glenn, Young Chang
Emphasis on preparing grand and vertical pianos for sale. Time saving tips and
techniques will be shown. We will also discuss how to "deal" with piano dealers
in the ever changing market. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Shortcuts for Efficient Piano Service - Ben McKlveen, Cincinnati, OH Chapter
This class explores the steps in grand and vertical piano action regulation,
with quick and efficient ways to re-establish a well regulated action. There
will be a discussion of tools and materials that save time and effort and a
short presentation of a quick single-handed grand dolly installation. (1 1/2
hours)
(E) Tackling the Tough Stuff On-Site - Jim Geiger, Heart of Texas Chapter
This class covers how to make some of those big repairs on the job site with
readily available tools and materials. Some things to be covered are separated
backs, bridges, capo bars, casters, pedals, legs, lyres and keys. Some
"hands-on," lots of questions and answers. (3 hours)
(E) Technical Basis for Humidity Control in Pianos - Bob Mair & Gayle Mair,
Dampp-Chaser Electronics
This four part class will cover Test Results from studies using pianos with and
without systems. We will cover System Components and how you can determine which
Dampp-Chaser system is best for your customers' piano. We will demonstrate the
Installation of a Humidity Control System on a grand piano, and present Humidity
Experiments designed to explain how and why the Dampp-Chaser system reacts the
way it does to various external conditions. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Tooling Up to Clean Pianos - James Schmitt, Portland, OR Chapter
This class will help participants use cleaning chemicals and procedures
developed by the cleaning industry with attention given to the special needs of
a fire and smoke damaged piano. James will include a hand-out with sources for
cleaning products and tools. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Vertical Hammer Replacement - Bill Spurlock, Spurlock Specialty Tools
Of all the parts we typically replace in pianos, new hammers offer the biggest
single improvement in piano tone. While information on grand hammers abounds,
hammer replacement for the more common - and just as deserving - vertical piano
is seldom discussed. This all new class will cover several approaches to the job
beginning with replacement/reconditioning of the hammer butts through
pre-hanging hammers on bare shanks, use of special jigs, and installing hammers
directly in the piano. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Woodworking for the Technician - Andre Bolduc, Bolduc Pianos
Practical veneering (repairs), touch-ups and joinery, bench repair, tips and
tricks for simple wood working at the customer's home and shop. (1 1/2 hours)
Shop-Related Classes
(E) Action Cloth and Leather Replacement - Bushings to Backchecks - David Brown,
Austin, TX Chapter
Learn what makes good leather and cloth, and how to properly prep, cut and glue
it for replacement. Also learn a practical, fast method for rebushing entire
sets of parts. A no nonsense, nuts and bolts approach for the shop. (1 1/2
hours)
(E) Cabinet Restorations - Shawn Hoar, Shawn's Pianos
Details, details and more details! Shop Tour - tools and equipment... safety and
environment. Tear down and organization of case parts. Specialty repairs and
advanced woodworking. Material, color, new and old type finishes. Plate
bronzing, numbering and lettering. Decal replacement. Felting the cabinet, and
assembly, button making and installation. "Shawn's Complete Process - Strip To
Ship." (3 hours)
(E) Fundamentals of Key Rebushing - Mark Bisso and Jane Aisenbrey, Pianotek
Supply Company
Class members will learn fundamental concepts and techniques of all aspects of
key rebushing. This will be an informal hands-on class focusing on bushing
removal, felt selection and cutting, mortise and minor key repair, adhesives,
installation, and easing. This is a unique opportunity to learn time and labor
saving tips from key repair professionals. All tools and supplies will be
provided for use during the class. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Homemade Hammer Hanging Jigs ... How to Make Them - How to Use Them - Thomas
Servinsky, Palm Beach, FL Chapter
This class is aimed at technicians wishing to gain better control over the
hammer hanging process. By understanding the sacred principles of hanging
hammers and applying them to easy-to-use jigs, needless errors can be eliminated
and the quality of the job improves. All jigs used in this class are easily
produced in any shop. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Key Recovering for the Small Shop - David Betts, North Bennet Street School
During this class David will show keytop removal, repairs to keysticks,
installation of new keytops, and the jigs used to trim notches and sides. If
time is available, replacement of keybutton and new balance rail inserts will be
shown. Keytop replacement can be fun & profitable, come see how it is done. (1
1/2 hours)
Tuning, Voicing & Concert Prep
(A) Advanced Tuning - Aural & Visual - Jim Coleman, Sr., Phoenix, AZ Chapter
This covers advanced stretch control, dealing with strange (but common) scaling
problems. High-level aural & visual techniques will be demonstrated. (1 1/2
hours)
(E) Aural Tuning Techniques - Virgil Smith, Chicago, IL Chapter
Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't have to train our ears to hear single matching
partials in order to do a superior aural tuning, or decide which set of partials
to match to the best octave? Wouldn't it be nice if we could simply listen to
the tone or tones as the ear hears them naturally and hear all the beats
necessary to do the finest aural tuning? Good News! This is possible, and I will
explain and demonstrate the technique in this class. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Between Artist and Technician - Steve Brady, Seattle, WA Chapter and Judith
Cohen, Concert Pianist
Taught by the husband/wife team of Steve Brady and concert pianist Judith Cohen,
this class deals with communication between the piano technician and the
pianist, and the process of making a piano satisfying to a pianist. Includes
live demonstration. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Creating Stability and Building Tone in New Pianos - Don Mannino, Kawai
This class covers many aspects of the tuning stability problem, especially
pertaining to new (or newly restrung) pianos. Tuning techniques, pitch raising
and other aspects of a technician's work are discussed, as is working with
strings to stabilize the tuning and improve the tone ("String Voicing"). (1 1/2
hours)
(E) Developing Tone with the Hammer - Doug Wood, Seattle, WA Chapter
Piano hammers have a profound effect on the tone of an instrument. This class
will emphasize field service techniques for getting the most out of a set of
hammers. We will also discuss how hammer selection, mass, shape, and felt
consistency contribute to tone. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) The Digital-Aural Tuner - Dean Reyburn and Mitch Kiel, Reyburn Piano Service
Using the new Reyburn CyberTuner state-of-the-art visual tuner in calculating
the perfect tuning, pitch raising, historical temperaments. Integrating aural
and visual tuning techniques. Using RCT's software spectrum analyzer in tuning,
voicing and trouble shooting. (1 1/2 hours)
(AI) Inharmonicity - Theory & Practice - Dan Levitan, New York City Chapter
All piano strings have inharmonicity; it is an integral part of piano tone.
Unfortunately, inharmonicity often alters to a frustrating degree the interval
beat rates on which modern tuners depend. This class, through aural
demonstration and visual aids, relates string inharmonicity to the
inharmonicity, and therefore the beat rates, of all the intervals commonly used
in tuning, and outlines the practical ramifications for temperament and octave
tuning in a range of common scale designs. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Let the Piano Tell You - Jack Stebbins, Boston, MA Chapter
The chief difficulty in tuning a temperament is how much or how little to temper
each interval. Wouldn't it be great if there were a simple way to get each piano
to tell you what beat speeds were correct and unique for that piano? There is a
way! It's straightforward. Come find out. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Pitch Raising Without Pain and Suffering - Isaac Sadigursky - Los Angeles,
CA Chapter
Pitch raising problems will be discussed: necessity of it, observing piano
potential problems; stabilizing plate, strings, different string segments,
different speed techniques, tools; war and horror stories, and if time permits
pianos will be pitch raised twice. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Preparing the Piano for the Artist - Jack Krefting, Ludlow, KY
The relative importance of tuning, regulation, and voicing will be discussed in
the context of the anticipated expectations of the artist. The particular
repertoire to be performed, size of the orchestra and of the hall, acoustic
limitations, and other factors will be considered, as will some things the
technician can do to bolster the confidence of the nervous artist. (3 hours)
(E) Termination (?) Points (?) - Paul Revenko-Jones, Chicago, IL Chapter
Where does it all end? What terminates? At what point? How does given energy
finally create the sound we identify as a piano, and why? What happens to that
energy that causes sounds we don't want: zizzes, zings, and "false beating," as
it is called? The first part of this class briefly addresses these questions by
looking at the piano as a total vibratory system with its characteristics, and
by examining the pertinent characteristics of materials (brass-agraffes, cast
iron-capo bars and hitch pins, steel- piano wire, wood bridges). Back to the
real world, the second part of the class addresses how to treat these materials
and conditions where they interconnect (what we have been calling termination
points), and the tools (some new) and procedures (both field and shop) used for
creating and repairing them. (1 1/2 hours)
(B) Tuning: Strictly for Beginners - Jim Coleman, Sr., Phoenix, AZ Chapter
Covering basics of tuning theory, practice, and why. There will be limited
"Hands-On" experience. All will be able to hear the beats. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) The Tuning Lever - Keith Bowman, South Central Pennsylvania Chapter
Just as the piano should provide an effortless conduit between the musician and
the music, the tuning tool should also be an effortless link between the
technician and the tuning. A tuning lever should be matched to physical body
size and tuning technique. It should minimize fatigue and maximize efficiency.
Using three criteria, this class will review the mechanics and geometry of
tuning; various styles and grips of tuning levers; ergonomics and posture; tool
maintenance, modification, repair and replacement. You are invited to bring your
own tuning tool designs, including impact style. A number of demonstration jigs
will be used, including experimental tuning levers and other surprises. Handouts
included. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Understanding the Use of Partials - Fred Tremper, Bluegrass, KY Chapter
The purpose of this class is to acquaint the audience with the phenomenon of
partials and how they are used to tune a piano. When you read a tuning article
or take a tuning class, do you ever wonder what is meant by harmonic partial
series, terms-2:1 octave, 6:4, P5, P4? Fred will teach you what these mean along
with many uses of partials in tuning a piano. Great class for beginners and
experienced tuners alike. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Voicing - Your Finishing Touch, Rick Butler, Washington, DC Chapter
Are you familiar with the 80/20 rule? 80% of the results are in 20% of the
effort. It's true. 5 to 15 minutes of voicing immediately after you finish
tuning can make a big difference in the way the piano is received.
During the first half of the class, a slide presentation on action
alignment will demonstrate how we can improve our finished product. For
instance, we've heard that all hammer shanks should travel in a straight and
vertical path. Should they? Is that the objective of traveling hammers?
During the second half of the class, we will voice a grand piano - 1 to
88. Rather than listen to two or three notes, needle, and listen again, perhaps
talk about it, we will voice the whole piano for evenness. Our objective is to
make the tone even throughout the scale, whether the piano is said to be bright,
mellow, or somewhere in between. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Zen & the Art of Concert Grand Maintenance - Ray Chandler, Kawai
Find out what goes into the Japanese prescription for making the "EX" grand
piano concert-worthy. Join Ray Chandler and the Kawai staff for an informative
session on high-level approaches to action and tonal refinement of the concert
grand. (RPT level, please) (1 1/2 hours)
Orlando TuneOff
Convention Tuning Contest: Aural versus Electronic
On Sunday morning two titans of the tuning profession will square off in
a demonstration of their skills. The January '97 cover of the PTG Journal
humorously showed these two poised, ready to take two paces forward, turn and
fire their weapons. That particular event has been referred to by Coleman as the
"Gunfight at the OK Coral" in Chicago, or sometimes simply the "Great TuneOff."
In Orlando, great attention will be given to making this contest a truly
fair and objective test in addition to improving the educational value of being
able to see and hear each of these participants do their very best tunings.
After the tunings are completed, the room will be cleared while the pianos are
moved in such a way that the judges will not know which piano was tuned by which
method. Then the fun begins. The audience will return and hear short identical
selections being played on each piano. Each Judge (the audience) will mark
his/her score sheet as to which piano sounds the best. The results will be
posted on the Convention bulletin board as soon as the results are tabulated.
Even though Virgil Smith and Jim Coleman, Sr. are close friends, each of
them will do their best to prove his method superior. Virgil contends that
tuning aurally gives one an advantage, in that he listens to all components of a
tone as he tunes, and can, therefore, make the very best resonances in order to
have perfect single, double, and triple matching octaves. Jim contends that it
is impossible to match all single, double, and triple octaves, but by judicious
use of certain partial matching and stretching, one can have the best
compromise.
Jim says he has learned some things from Virgil's manner of tuning, and
has been able to emulate his tunings electronically. He is still practicing for
this coming event and hopes to be able to demonstrate a superior tuning as a
result. Virgil is equally motivated to prove the superiority of being able to
hear more of the whole tone while tuning and to utilize that information to
provide a more superior tuning since Coleman can only listen to one partial at a
time with his equipment.
In any event, Jim believes that again there will not be more than a 60-40
split in the voting preferences. Be there, and let your vote count at the Great
TuneOff in Orlando.
PS: Jim and Virgil plan to still be friends afterwards.
Sun. - 8:30 a.m.-Noon
(E) TuneOff (Aural) - Virgil Smith, Chicago, IL Chapter
In this class I will do a complete aural tuning attempting to duplicate the
tuning that I did in the Chicago TuneOff. I will also explain what I am doing
and hearing as I tune. I will deal only with beats heard when I listens to all
the partials of each note sounding together as one sound and pitch rather than
dealing with any single matching partials. Virgil Smith, Sunday 8:30 - 10 a.m.
(E) TuneOff (Visual), Jim Coleman Sr., Phoenix, AZ Chapter
During the Sunday morning TuneOff between Virgil Smith and Jim Coleman an
attempt will be made to show that one can tune a piano quite acceptably using
specific partial matching. Virgil may have an advantage in that he listens to
the whole tone, but I may have an advantage in evenness from one note to the
next using the Electronic Tuning Deivce. I will attempt to follow his model of
tuning stretch. I will throw in some aural tests occasionally just so that the
audience will be able to tract what I am doing. Even many of the unisons will be
tuned using only the ETD. During the last 20 minutes the audience will have the
opportunity to vote on which pianos sound the best to them. There will be four
identical pianos, two of which will have been tuned prior to the class time.
Voting results will be posted after lunch on Sunday. I predict again that the
voting will be close. Who knows which style of tuning will win? Be there to help
us find out. No matter what, Virgil and I will still be friends. Jim Coleman
Sr., 10:30 a.m. - Noon
Visually Impaired
(E) Business Management: More Than Just Record Keeping - Don Mitchell, Portland,
OR Chapter
This class is designed to help participants discover how to guide a piano
service business to be successful. Topics covered include: Determining your
mission; Establishing your purpose; Selling goals by using the creation cycle;
Developing macro and micro policies that guide your business to the successful
accomplishment of your goals. A unique approach to managing your business, both
thought-provoking and inspirational. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Advanced Voicing, Language, Theory & Practice - David Barr, Pittsburgh, PA
Chapter
This class delves into descriptive language of piano tone, the development of
specific listening. It also covers the theory of string and hammer behavior. A
great deal of time will be devoted to hands-on voicing. (3 hours)
(A) Preparing the Concert Grand - Ray Chandler, Kawai
This class is specifically formatted for the visually impaired and is an adjunct
to the Zen & the Art of Concert Grand Maintenance class. We will zero in on a
few of the more important aspects and approaches to concert grand tweaking and
refining a la Kawai. (1 1/2 hours)
Exam Classes
This year all Exam classes will be conducted on Thursday and Friday evening.
This will be done in order for participants to take as many educational classes
during the day as possible.
If you are interested in upgrading your PTG Status or involvement in the
testing program, you will not want to miss these classes:
Written
(B) Preparing to take the PTG Written Exam / Written Examinations - Chuck
Erbsmehl, Buffalo, NY Chapter
The first part of this class will help you to prepare to take the PTG Written
exam. Chuck will discuss the purpose of the exams, explanation of the six
sections of the exam; tuning theory, action regulation, tone regulation,
repairs, piano design and construction, general information, and give some
sample questions of each section of the exam.
The second part of the class you will be able to take the written exam.
The tests will be scored on-site and if time permits, test evaluations will be
offered.(PTG members only) Thursday, 6 - 9 p.m.
Technical
(E) Preparing for the PTG Technical Exam - Tom Seay, Austin, TX Chapter
A walk through the procedures and requirements to pass the technical exam. Learn
what tools to bring plus the physical and psychological strategies necessary to
pass these basic skills. Friday, 7 - 9 p.m.
(A) Technical Examiner Training - Richard Bittner, Detroit-Windsor Chapter
Technical examiners for the RPT exam have no formal training program, yet must
become skilled in administering the exam. This class will be a forum for asking
questions about the technical exam and a "master" examiner training session.
This class is designed for RPTs (no Associates please) who are or wish to become
technical examiners.
Richard Bittner, ETS Chairman, will discuss exam equipment (including the
new Vertical and Grand action models), interpreting the manual, humanistics,
paperwork, etc. Thursday, 7:30-9 p.m. (RPTs ONLY)
Tuning
(E) Preparing for the PTG Tuning Exam - Keith Kopp, Portland, OR Chapter
Experience the actual test room layout with a prepared test piano. Learn what
detuning and scoring procedures are involved in the exam. Helpful tuning tips
and critical psychological preparation will be emphasized. Friday, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
(A) Tuning Examiner Training - Richard Bittner, Detroit-Windsor Chapter
Certified Tuning Examiners are made, not born. Help yourself become a great CTE
by attending this examiner "master" class. You will have ample opportunity to
ask questions or discuss problems you've encountered
Richard Bittner, ETS Chairman, will lead the discussion. He will cover
such topics as piano selection and placement, master tuning, scoring, SAT
operation, paperwork, humanistics, etc. This class is for RPTs, CTE trainees,
and CTEs (no Associates, please). Thursday, 6 - 7:30 p.m.. (RPTs ONLY)
College & University Technician Classes
(A) A Spectral View of Mass and Leverage - Dennis Johnson, Twin Cities, MN
Chapter
This class will share findings of an investigation into the partial spectrum of
a single concert grand using different configurations of mass and leverage in
the action parts. The physical problems associated with this question are
complex and elusive, however, there are some interesting patterns which are
revealed by the state of the art equipment used and hopefully others will be
inspired to continue this work. No definitive conclusions will be proposed in
this class. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) New Age Voicing - Brian De Tar, Yamaha
Yamaha is creating a voicing class dealing with new ways of solving voicing
challenges specific to the Yamaha hammer. This is a preview of that class which
has been years in the making. (1 1/2 hours)
Mini-Technicals
Coordinated by Bob Anderson, RPT, Assistant Director
Mini-Technical classes will take place during 3rd period on Friday. Each
class will be 40 minutes in length with a ten-minute break in between. You will
be able to attend 2 different Mini-Technicals during this period.
(E) Bass String Basics - David Sanderson, Inventronics
David will identify elements of string construction and the corresponding
contribution to the bass sound. Areas covered will include high and low
inharmonicity, high and low tension with audio recordings of each.
(E) Been There...Done That...! - Sid Stone, Golden Gate, CA Chapter
Tips, techniques, tools and tricks of the trade. Forty years in forty minutes.
Sid Stone's distilled verbum sapient. If he only knew forty years ago what he
knows now ... !
(E) Control Your Paperwork - Control Your Business - Larry Crabb, Atlanta, GA
Chapter
Special control journals to keep track of work (service) orders, purchases,
service tickets, work in the shop, customer calls and bookkeeping information.
Also, a method to process your incoming mail and a practical, efficient way to
handle future follow-ups and dates.
(E) Distorted Commas - Dennis Johnson, Twin Cities, MN Chapter
This class will begin with a brief introduction of some relevant commas and how
they are distorted by inharmonicity. Using Hegel's dialectics as a metaphor, we
will see how inharmonicity serves as an agent of dialectical synthesis between
the Pythagorean and Syntonic commas. We realize this synthesis in the creative
process of temperament selection.
(E) Ear Aerobics - James Arledge - Nashville, TN Chapter
Custom State-of the-Art digital recording will provide a listening experience
deep into piano sound. This ear training exercise will journey through aspects
of the piano sound in a way that will enlighten the beginner as well as the
expert.
(I) Equal Dip, Equal Aftertouch - Richard Ruggero, Research Triangle, NC Chapter
Having an equal touch is probably the most important factor to most pianists.
This class shows how to have both equal aftertouch and equal dip. The three
components of aftertouch; let off, key dip, and hammer blow distance will be
discussed and then Richard will show how to make adjustments to the action that
will affect these components so that the dip will remain the same while
equalizing aftertouch. This class is for intermediate to advanced groups.
(I) Getting the Most From Your Electronic Tuning Device Using Aural Checks -
Randy Potter, Randy Potter School
Over half of all tuners use an ETD to some extent. Many "forget" how to tune
aurally after using a device for several years - or neglect to learn it. This
class teaches quick, easy and effective systems for optimizing your tunings by
making aural checks as you tune, and shows how non-aural tuners can learn aural
tuning as they use their ETD. Handouts include charts and instructions for use
with the PT-100, SAT and Cybertuner. All three systems and devices will be
demonstrated in class.
(E) Grand Piano Service in the Home - James Sims, Tallahassee, FL Chapter
Preventive care, communication - minor regulation, correcting normal wear
voicing, extending life of hammers, trouble shooting, tips that add value to
your service.
(I) Home Spiff the Vertical Piano - Kerry Symes, Dallas TX Chapter
Kerry demonstrates comprehensive servicing for the vertical piano. Necessary
work performed in addition to tuning, makes pianos perform better, your
customers more satisfied, and the technician a little richer. This class deals
with the often overlooked areas of servicing and answers the question, "How much
do you charge to tune a piano?"
(I) In-Home Bridge Repairs - Walter Connell, Dallas, TX Chapter
Tools, materials and techniques for repairing damaged bridges outside of the
shop environment.
(E) The In and Out of Player Actions - Herbert Lindahl, Connecticut Chapter
The object of this class is to demonstrate with slides and props, the safest way
to remove the upper and lower player actions, of most types of player pianos,
built in the early part of this century. Once the player action is removed, the
regular piano action, strings, bridges, etc., can be accessed for tuning,
regulation and so forth.
(B) Internet Basics: Getting Connected - Ron Torrella, Detroit-Windsor Chapter
So you still haven't found your way onto the Information Superhighway? Still
perplexed by talk of RAM, ROM, Bauds, Bytes, and Browsers? This quickie will
cover the basics of getting set up to surf the Internet, putting you at ease so
you needn't feel apprehensive. Self-taught "surfer," Ron, will provide you with
the basics and answer questions related to getting your computer set up for a
foray into the exciting world of electronic communications.
(E) It's Not All It's Cracked Up To Be - Bob Bartnik, Richmond, VA Chapter
The discovery of a cracked plate does not have to mean the end of a good
instrument. Before you spend copious bucks and effort, learn this method of
repair IN THE PIANO. We will see how to prepare customer, technician and
instrument for a "Special" welding technique in piano lifesaving.
(E) Machine Shop Concepts - William J. Balamut, Twin Cities, MN Chapter
The proper use of drills and taps to thread into metals. Determine proper tap
drill size for various tap sizes; working procedures on different materials.
(E) Making Unisons Sound "SPOT ON" - Michael Vecchione, Baltimore, MD Chapter
Unisons are the pinnacle of our tunings. Our signature. They enhance the overall
sound quality and accentuate the subtle aspects of tuning, toning, and
presentation of the piano. A unique system assuring accurate, efficient and
stable unions will be presented in this mini tech. A must for all who tune.
(B) MIDI for Dummies-101 - Paul Adams, Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter
As MIDI equipped pianos enjoy an ever increasing market-share, this class aims
to provide a basic working knowledge of the Musical Instrument Digital Interface
language. This will empower the techno-phobic technician with the ability to
discuss the more sophisticated aspects of the technology with his/her client.
The Sanderson Accu-Tuner(R), Yamaha Disklavier(R), PianoDisc(R) and other
ancillary MIDI equipment will be discussed. Course pre-requisite: Techno-phobia
must be mild enough to allow the use of a TV remote.
(E) New York City Piano Manufacturers - Charlie Huether, New Jersey Chapter
Piano manufacture was the tone of the country's principle business. New York
City was one of the major manufacturing cities.
(E) The Perfect Service Call: A Tuner's Fable - Skip Becker, Northeast Florida
Chapter
Watch the edited clips of the amazing piano tuner from the popular "Northern
Exposure," then analyze step by step his technique. The portrayal of the tuner
and circumstances which develop is very realistic. We can all learn a lot from
him, and it's entertaining as well.
(E) Piano Detailing - Dan Reed, Dallas, TX Chapter
Products and procedures for successful cleaning of the soundboard, plate, solid
wire, brass hardware, and dirty cases in general. If you have been avoiding this
potential business because of poorly performing products, come check out some
proven products and procedures that work.
(E) Piano Marketing Worldwide - Past, Present and Future - Helga Kasimoff, Los
Angeles, CA
Topics: Interaction between builders and consumers, advertising, attempts at
grading systems and mass productions. Piano Politics, who survives? Insights
that may be of help to better understand where we are today.
(E) Practical Piano Purchase Parameters Prevent Panic - Colette Collier,
Washington, DC Chapter
The phone rings. Panic. Perspiration. A piano purchase is imminent. They plead
to you, the professional, to guide them in the process. Helpful hints and
practical parameters to pilot the prospective purchaser from panic to pleasure
will be presented.
(E) Putting the Pitch Where You Want It - David Foster, Shenandoah, VA Chapter
Precise pitch management is often an important part of our tuning work. A tuning
that is a little too sharp or flat can cost us a customer. This class will
present methods to help us increase our control over the final pitch. Then we
will consider just what that pitch should be. Is it permissible to let the pitch
"Float" flat or sharp with the seasons? What is best for the customer will be
our focus.
(I) The Razor Edge - Alan Hoeckelman - St. Louis, MO Chapter
Ever cut a piece of leather and find your cut looks, well,... kind of ragged?
Can you re-sharpen that knife to a razor edge and avoid the mess from an oil
stone? Come see it done. Find out why some edges dull quickly and others last.
Hear what to look for in a good stone. There will be demonstrated simple
techniques developed by a group with over 45 years of involvement with the
cutting edge. Come discover the "BURR."
(E) String Leveling - New Techniques - Clair Davies, Bluegrass, KY Chapter
If grand hammers are fitted to unlevel strings, tone will be poor when the
action is shifted because the hammers will no longer fit the strings. I have a
very simple tool and some new ideas for attaining perfect leveling.
(E) The Transparent Piano - Terry Greene, Hampton Roads, VA Chapter
"What Pianists as Artists Expect from a Piano, and therefore from technicians."
A concert artist wants an instrument that will provide complete freedom of
expression of every musical nuance that the composition requires and their
services will accommodate. The job of the concert technician is to provide an
instrument that essentially disappears and allows the artist to play the music
and not the piano. Hence, "The Transparent Piano."
(E) Trapwork, Rebuilding and Regulation - Christopher Pilon, Connecitcut Chapter
Restoration and regulation of trapwork systems. Tools, materials, and specialty
repairs will be discussed. Trapwork systems are often deteriorated due to age
and neglect. The class is intended as a stimulus to a more complete piano
service.
(E) Universal Bass String Replacement Tips: Speed, Stability and More - Carey
Werneth, Northwest Florida Chapter
Topics: How to remove excess windings from each end of strings quickly. How to
stretch or break in strings. How to prop verticals with grand style lids. Other
string related tips, as time permits, such as: agraffe removal, loose winding,
bridge and hitch pin repair, etc. A handout on tips will be included, in case
all are not covered.
(E) Video for Piano Technicians: Equipment, Techniques and Applications - Alan
Eder, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
We will cover everything from choosing your equipment to optimizing your use of
what you have to the many applications of video as a powerful tool of
documentation instruction, and communication for piano technicians. Newcomers
and hard core vidiots are equally welcome.
(E) Yamaha Silk Cord Replacement Made Easy - Bill McKaig, Southwest, FL Chapter
This class will demonstrate a new method for replacing silk cords on upright
hammer butts. It is specifically designed for older Yamaha pianos, however, any
hammer butt with a plated screw can use this method.
Hands-On
Tuning Tutoring
$25
The tutoring sessions are arranged for the accommodations of 3 students along
with a CTE level tutor. This setting allows for dialogue and interaction to
create an atmosphere of individualized supportive learning.
These classes require a special registration and a surcharge to help
defray the added cost of equipment and materials used in the classes. Please
note: Full registration fees must be paid to attend these classes. The only way
to register is to call the Home Office at 816-753-7747 and speak with Sandy. She
will be able to tell you which classes have openings. When your full payment is
received by the Home Office, you will be sent a confirmation securing your place
in the selected class. Visa or MasterCard are accepted. Registration for these
classes will not be accepted by mail or fax.
(B) Beat Rate Tutoring
Receive individualized help in learning beat rates. Learn to identify beat rates
within various intervals and checks and examine corresponding partials.
Participants will be able to tune intervals and receive critique by a qualified
tutor. (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Thur., 8 - 9:30 a.m. / Fri., 10:30 a.m. - Noon / Sat., 1:30 - 3 p.m.
(I) Comprehensive Tuning for Advanced Students
Receive hands-on help from a tuning examiner. This session is designed to have
tunings critiqued and/or to focus in on individual areas of concern. All aspects
of tuning can be covered ranging from temperament to octaves to unisons. This is
an excellent class for those who feel they are ready to take the exam but would
like to receive final tips, practice, and evaluation. (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Fri., 10:30 a.m. - Noon / Sat., 8 - 9:30 a.m. / Sun., 8:30-10 a.m.
(B) Electronic Tuning Tutoring
Receive individualized help in using electronic tuning devices. This tutoring
session is geared for beginners seeking help with the basics in using the
Sanderson Accu-Tuner. (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Fri., 3:30 - 5 p.m.
(B) Octaves Tutoring
Receive individualized assistance learning proper stretching of bass and treble
octaves. How much is too much? How do you get accurate results in the high
treble and low bass? (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Thur., 3:30 - 5 p.m. / Fri., 3:30 - 5 p.m. / Sat., 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Temperament Tutoring (Choice of Basic, Intermediate or Advanced Level)
Work with a CTE tutor to hone your temperament to the exacting standards of the
PTG Tuning Exam. Practice tests and checks and receive valuable assistance from
a qualified tutor. (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Basic: Thurs., 10:30 a.m. - Noon / Thurs., 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Intermediate: Fri., 8 - 9:30 a.m. / Sat., 3:30 - 5 p.m.
Advanced: Fri., 8 - 9:30 a.m. / Sat., 8 - 9:30 a.m.
(B) Unisons & Stability Tutoring
Get hands-on help from a qualified tutor. Training covers how to set unisons to
exam standards, and how to get your tuning to hold well enough to pass the PTG
tuning exam. (3 SLOTS PER PERIOD)
Thurs., 8 - 9:30 a.m. / Thurs., 1:30 - 3 p.m. / Sat., 1:30-3 p.m.
EXAMS ...
The Examinations and Test Standards Committee is pleased to announce the
RPT exams will be offered during the 1997 Orlando Convention. All three exams
will be offered - written, technical, and tuning. The Convention Test Center
will be on the 2nd floor of the hotel. Applications will be accepted on a
first-come, first-served basis.
If you think you're ready to challenge the RPT exams, ask a local RPT to
read a Pre-Screening Manual (available free from the Home Office) and help you
to assess your exam readiness. If in your judgement, you feel ready for the
exams, fill out the application and send it to Richard Bittner as soon as
possible. Available slots are filled in the order applications are received.
A very popular option last year - observing master tuning sessions - is
once again being offered. Look for the check box on the Application. Because
availability of exam slots at Orlando's Convention Test Center is limited, ETS
encourages you to take your RPT exams locally whenever possible.
Well, there you have it. The 1997 schedule of PTG Institute classes, Rebuilding
Seminar and hands-on training. It's clear that the 40th Annual Technical
Institute schedule is full and that there are many new opportunities to explore.
Consider all there is to learn, how much you could grow and how important
investing in yourself can be.
1997 Convention & Technical Institute Headquarters,
Radisson Twin Towers - Orlando, Florida
- 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport
- 100 feet from the entrance to Universal Studios Florida
- 5 minutes from BELZ Factory Outlet Mall and
- 20 minutes from all other major Orlando attractions
Looking for a Lift?
Every Registrant for the 1997 Piano Technicians Guild 40th Annual
Convention & Technical Institute will Receive with Their Confirmation Packet a
Coupon Good for $3 Off the $21 Regular Round Trip Price for Shuttle Service via
Mears Motor Shuttle from Orlando International Airport to the Radisson Twin
Towers, Headquarters for the Convention & Technical Institute.
Mears Motor Shuttle Booth Locations at Orlando International Airport
- 2nd Level -
"A" Terminal: Exit Through the Doors in Front of American Baggage Claim
Carousel #5
"B" Terminal: Exit Through the Doors in Front of United Baggage Claim Carousel
#8 or Delta Baggage Claim Carousel #14.
Ticket Must be Purchased at Airport Location for Discount. Gratuity Not
Included. Coupon Valid July 18 - 29, 1997.
FOR ANY FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE PIANO TECHNICIANS GUILD
3930 WASHINGTON
KANSAS CITY, MO 64111
(816)753-7747 (P)
(816)531-0070 (F)
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC