Building on the Past ...
Looking to the Future -
A 40-Year PTG Tradition
Welcome
There's no other event quite like it! Nowhere else can you find such a
range of educational offerings tailored to the working piano technician, all
taught by leading experts in their specialties.
PTG's 40th Annual Convention and Technical Institute brings together
technicians from all over the world in an atmosphere of sharing and fellowship.
You'll have more than 110 classes to choose from - almost 300 hours of
educational offerings - including:
* Business classes
* In-home service and repair classes
* Piano design, construction and materials classes
* Rebuilding and shop classes
* Tuning classes
* Voicing and concert prep classes
Useful Information
Council
PTG's Annual Council Meeting of chapter delegates will be Tuesday and
Wednesday, July 22 and 23 in the Radisson Twin Towers Convention Center.
Delegates who have been recorded by the Home Office may pick up their packets at
6:30 p.m. on Monday, July 21 and 7 to 8:30 a.m., Tuesday morning before the
Council session begins.
Regional Meetings
Learn what's going on in your region; meet with your Regional Vice
President and other members to discuss organizational issues and plan future
activities. Regional meetings will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, July 24.
Region 1: Indian River;
Region 2: Cape Canaveral;
Region 3: Volusia;
Region 4: Palm Beach;
Region 5: Broward;
Region 6: Dade;
Region 7: Florida Keys.
Committee Meetings
Time for meetings of PTG committees has been set aside for Saturday,
July 26 at 9:30 a.m., in the Seminole Room of the Convention Center.
For the Visually Impaired
The Visually Impaired Concerns Committee has scheduled six-hours of
classes. The program is open to everyone. Don Mitchell will discuss "Business
Management," David Barr will give you techniques for "Advanced Voicing," and Ray
Chandler will give you tips on "Preparing the Concert Grand."
Chapel Service
Chapel Service will be held Sunday, July 27, at 7 a.m. in the Pinellas
Room of the Convention Center and will be conducted by Jim Coleman Jr.
Barbershop Chorus Rehearsal
Be a part of the 18th Annual Performance of the PTG Barbershop Chorus,
under the direction of Larry Crabb, RPT.
In 1980 at the Philadelphia convention - the first time the barbershop
chorus ever performed - Dick Bittinger asked Larry (a long-time "barbershopper")
if he could find a few people to sing the song "I Left My Heart in San
Francisco," using special piano related lyrics, as this was the next convention
destination. Larry gathered about 15 people, rehearsed one time, then performed
at the closing luncheon. They were a hit!
The next year in San Francisco, people were asking Larry to do a repeat
performance. He agreed enthusiastically! Once again, the chorus performed and it
was even better than the year before. Since then, Larry has directed the chorus
at every convention with as many as 45-50 singers.
In the early years the songs were original barbershop songs Larry had
obtained through his involvement with his local barbershoppers. However, as
years and conventions went on, Larry, other members of the chorus, and PTG
members not even in the chorus, composed lyrics to appropriate songs for the
convention cities we were in and where we would be going the following year.
Larry mixes his performance package with traditional barbershop, special
parodies, comedy, wacky hi-jinx and religious songs. These performances are
eagerly anticipated and well attended each year.
So, be sure not to miss out on being a part of Larry's chorus this year
in Orlando. Rehearsals will be Tuesday- Friday, July 22 - 25, from
12:15-1:00p.m. The performance is scheduled 1/2 hour before the Yamaha Reception
on Friday, July 25, outside the Citrus Crown Ballroom.
Auxiliary
Would you like to see what goes on behind the scenes at Disney? Then
you'll want to join the Auxiliary tour this year as they go "under-ground." The
tour will take place on Friday, July 25. The tour will include five rides, and a
chance for you to see the Disney 25th Anniversary Parade. The tour takes only 15
in a group, so sign up early . For this background tour, only people 16 years of
age and older will be admitted. They do not want to spoil the fantasy of seeing
the characters out of dress.With advanced request, wheelchair service will be
provided.
If you and your family would like to go on other tours of Orlando or
Disney, you may contact Sharlene Pitts at (407) 397-4946. Ms. Pitts works for
the Orlando Discount Guide, and she will be able to prepare a package for you
and your family. Be sure that you tell Ms. Pitts that you are with the PTG.
Special Notes
Only Institute registrants may attend classes. Spouses and children of
PTG members may register to attend classes at the member rate. Guides for the
visually impaired registrants may attend classes at no charge, as long as
seating is available. Please inform the Home Office, if you will have a guide.
Videotaping of convention functions is prohibited without express
permission of the PTG Executive Director. Any taping, either audio or visual, of
Institute classes must be approved by the Institute class instructor and must be
for personal use only.
Nonmember technicians can obtain a certificate good for a $30 rebate on
new member application fees. Rebate certificates can be picked up at the
convention membership booth in the Exhibit Hall and must be validated by a booth
representative as well as an officer of the chapter you join. The $30 will be
refunded when all dues and fees are paid.
Opening Assembly
July 23, 7 p.m.
Orange Ballroom
Kick off your convention in a big way as the 40th Annual PTG Convention &
Technical Institute begins. Fifty-six technicians have already been inducted
into the Piano Technicians Guild Hall of Fame. Find out who will join them this
year at the Opening Assembly, as well as who will be the recipients of this
year's Member of Note award. Those attending the Opening Assembly will receive a
copy of the 1997 Convention Souvenir Book!
Golden Hammer Banquet
July 26, 7 p.m.
Orange Ballroom
Don't miss the highlight of the convention . . . with good food, good
friends and lots of fun as the Guild honors its many members and announces the
winner of this year's Golden Hammer Award. A great evening to relax and enjoy.
A Very Special Sunday
July 27, 1997
This year, Sunday of the PTG Convention will be special and innovative.
Following a religious chapel service, there will be four highly educational and
interesting class rooms available for participants.
7-8 a.m.
Chapel Services
8:30 a.m. - Noon
Classroom I
Bruce Hoadley
Final two sessions of
his special class
Classroom II
Applied Skills Room
Classroom III
Tune-Off Challenge
Jim Coleman vs. Virgil
Smith
Classroom IV
Business Roundtables
Learn what's new, what's improved, how it works and how to care for it in the
Exhibit Hall. These exhibits will encompass a vast array of piano industry
products and services. The companies listed below have already reserved their
place in this exciting display!
Exhibitors
American Piano Supply Company
Boston Piano Company
Brooks, Ltd.
Brookside Press
Dampp-Chaser Electronics
Dryburgh Adhesives
Fandrich Piano Company
Fandrich & Sons Pianos
Geneva International
Hart's Piano Shop
Inventronics, Inc.
Kawai Pianos
Kemble & Company, Ltd
McCall Enterprises.
North Bennet Street School
Paul L. Jansen & Son
PianoDisc
Pianotek Supply Company
PTG Auxiliary
PTG Foundation
PTG Membership
PTG Merchandise
Ralph J. Onesti Piano Restorations
Randy Potter School
Renner USA
Reyburn Piano Service
SAP Music Professionals
Schaff Piano Supply Co.
Schimmel Piano Company
Shawn's Pianos
Spurlock Specialty Tools
Steinway & Sons
Webb Phillips & Assoc.
Weber Piano Company
WonderWand
Yamaha Corp. of America
Young Chang
Exhibit Hall Hours
Wednesday, July 23
2 - 6 p.m.
Thursday, July 24
9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
2:45 - 6 p.m.
Friday, July 25
9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
2:45 - 6 p.m.
Saturday, July 26
9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
2:45 - 6 p.m.
PTG Convention Schedule
Saturday, July 19
7:30 - 9 p.m. PTG Board Meeting
Sunday, July 20
8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. PTG Board Meeting
Monday, July 21
8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. PTG Board Meeting
5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Registration Desk
6:30 p.m. Delegate Check-in
Tuesday, July 22
7:30 a.m.-Noon Registration Desk
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Council Meeting
Exhibit Set-up
8 p.m. Randy Potter Reception
Wednesday, July 23
7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Registration Desk
8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exhibitor Set-up
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Council Meeting
2 p.m.- 6 p.m. Exhibit Hall Opens
7:30 p.m. Opening Assembly
9 pm PianoDisc/Knabe/Mason &
Hamlin Reception
Thursday, July 24
7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Registration Desk
8 a.m. Institute Period 1
9 a.m. Exhibit Hall Opens
10:30 p.m. Institute Period 2
1:30 p.m. Institute Period 3
PTG Foundation Board Meeting
3 p.m. Recital by 1997 Auxiliary
Scholarship Recipients
(Baldwin)
3:30 p.m. Institute Period 4
5:30 p.m. Regional Meetings
Exam Classes
8 p.m. Kawai EX Concert/Reception
Friday, July 25
7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Registration Desk
8 a.m. Institute Period 1
9 a.m. Exhibit Hall Open
10:30 a.m. Institute Period 2
1:30 p.m. Institute Period 3
3:30 p.m. Institute Period 4
6 p.m. Applied Skills
8:30 p.m. Barbershop Chorus
9:00 p.m. Yamaha Reception
Saturday, July 26
7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Registration Desk
8 a.m. Institute Period 1
PTG Board Meeting
9 a.m. Exhibit Hall Open
9:30 a.m. Committee Meetings
10:30 a.m. Institute Period 2
1:30 p.m. Institute Period 3
3:30 p.m. Institute Period 4
7 p.m. Golden Hammer Banquet
9 p.m. Steinway Concert and
Reception
Sunday, July 27
7 a.m. Chapel Service
8:30 a.m. Institute Period 1
10:30 a.m. Institute Period 2
PTGA Convention Schedule
Wednesday, July 23
9 a.m. Auxiliary Executive Board
Meeting
7:30 p.m. Piano Technicians
Guild Opening Assembly
9 p.m. PianoDisc/Knabe/Mason &
Hamlin Reception
Thursday, July 24
8:30 a.m. Auxiliary Opening Assembly
& Breakfast
9:30 a.m. Member-At-Large Meeting
9:45 a.m. Council Meeting I
12:15 p.m. Auxiliary Friendship Luncheon
3:00 p.m. Recital by 1997 Auxiliary
Scholarship Recipients
(Baldwin)
4 p.m. Auxiliary Tea
4:45 p.m. Installation of Officers
8:00 p.m. Kawai EX Concert/Reception
Friday, July 25
8:30 a.m. Disney Tour
6:00 p.m. Return to the bus.
6:30 p.m. Arrive back at hotel.
9 p.m. Yamaha Reception
Saturday July 26
8:00 a.m. - Noon EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM:
Murray Bradford Tax Class
or
Explore the city on your own,
or you may wish to relax by
the pool.
7 p.m. Piano Technicians Guild
Golden Hammer Banquet
9 p.m. Steinway Concert (Reception
immediately following)
Sunday, July 27
7-8:00 a.m. Chapel Service
8:30 a.m. Auxiliary Executive Post-Board
Meeting
9 a.m. Sleep in, or get out and visit
anyplace you like.
Meet the 1997 Technical Institute Staff
Wally Brooks, RPT
Institute Director
Wally has been a member of PTG for 36 years. He has served as President
of the Connecticut Chapter and has been Chairman and/or Institute Director of
more than eight Connecticut and New England Seminars. He has taught at numerous
seminars and annual conventions since 1970 and has served on many chapter and
international committees. Wally was awarded the Member of Note Award in 1984 and
was inducted into the PTG Hall Of Fame in 1995. For the past two years Wally
served as an Assistant Director of the Institute Committee in Albuquerque and
Dearborn.
Evelyn Smith, RPT
Assistant Director
Evelyn , a member of PTG since 1985, is no stranger to conference
organizing or teaching. Before joining PTG, she coordinated two conferences in
her jobs in non-profit administration. She also led workshops for adults in
conflict resolution skills, and taught English as a Second Language in both the
U.S. and Japan.
Evelyn directed the North Carolina Regional Conference in 1994, and
helped found the NC Regional Conference Board in 1991. Her PTG teaching
experience has included numerous regional seminars and national institutes. She
has served as president of the NC Central Chapter, and was a member of the PTG
Marketing Committee from 1992-94. Evelyn served as an Assistant Director of the
Institute Committee in Dearborn.
John Ragusa, RPT
Assistant Director
This year marks John Ragusa's tenth year as a PTG member. He has served
on the Southwest Florida Chapter's Executive Board for the last seven years, and
edited the chapter newsletter, Tech-Tunes. He directed the Florida State Seminar
for three consecutive years (1994/95/96). He received Florida's Ed Wood Award at
the 1996 State Seminar and instructed at the 1996 Institute in Dearborn.
Bob Anderson, RPT
Assistant Director
Bob became interested in piano technology in 1970 and read about it and
talked with piano technicians occasionally. In 1974 he attended a summer class
in beginning piano service. In 1975 he joined PTG and started working in a piano
repair shop. He started his own piano service business in 1980. In the Tucson
Chapter of PTG, he served as Secretary, Vice President and Newsletter Editor, as
well as teaching an apprentice class and serving as Chairman of the AZ State
Seminar several times. He has taught technical classes at the local and regional
level, and taught a mini-technical class at the Convention in Dearborn last
year.
Paul Olsen, RPT
Assistant Director
As a PTG member for 16 years, Paul has given many years of service to the
organization. Among his contributions, Paul recently served as Chairman of the
Twin Cities Chapter Public Relations Committee, which he organized in 1990. He
served as Twin Cities Chapter President from 1987 to 1989, and before being
elected Chapter President was the Chairman of the Central West Regional Seminar
in 1987. More recently, Paul again served as Central West Regional Seminar
Chairman in 1992 and was a member of the Chapter Management and Achievement
Committee from 1988 to 1992. Paul served as an Assistant Director of the
Institute Committee in Kansas City and Albuquerque and as Institute Director in
Dearborn.
1997 Technical Institute Schedule
Thursday - Saturday
1st Period 8:00-9:30 a.m.
2nd Period 10:30a.m.-12:00 p.m.
3rd Period 1:30-3:00 p.m.
4th Period 3:30-5:00 p.m.
Sunday
1st Period 8:30-10:00 a.m.
2nd Period 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Approximate level of material and presentation:
(E) Everyone (I) Intermediate
(B) Basic (A) Advanced
Action & Regulation Classes
(E) Action Centers: The Secret of Consistent Touch - Don Mannino, Kawai
This class is in two parts within the one class session. The first focuses on
conceptualizing action center operation and service, and the second demonstrates
an efficient and highly accurate method for recentering using sized broaches.
The discussion will include evaluating the amount of friction needed for any
given part, the effects of pinning on touch and tone, and dealing with the
various types of bushing cloths encountered. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Aftertouch: The Secret of Ultimate Piano Performance - LaRoy Edwards and
Kirk Ise, Yamaha
This innovative class will help to clarify the whole picture of "aftertouch."
You'll see how to factor in the "human element" that the pianist places on the
mechanical system of the piano, and what the pianist expects from your
regulation work. We'll examine all of the related regulating adjustments, to
understand how each one contributes to the control and efficiency of making
music at the piano. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Blueprint and Balance the Grand Action - David Stanwood, Stanwood Touch
Design Systems & Bob Marinelli, Pianotek Supply Company
Studies carried out over a six year period by a team of technicians under the
direction of David C. Stanwood investigated both traditional and new methods for
measuring and manipulating the feel of the piano actions. Bob Marinelli has been
documenting and studying action dimensions in the making of replacement
keyboards over the last 5 years. The findings challenge commonly held
assumptions. Downweight does not indicate when a key is balanced. The general
notion that piano actions have a 1:5 ratio in key to hammer movement is false.
The 2:1 key ratio is a rare bird. Classifying hammer weight to the nearest pound
compromises tone and touch quality. Using parts that reproduce original
dimensions often creates heavy action. Making hammers extremely light creates a
"small" sound in the modern piano. Breakthrough technology now makes it possible
to provide a blue print for the design of weight, leverage, and friction in
piano actions. The advent of "The New Touchweight Metrology" has given birth to
a new generation products and services for balancing piano tone and touch. (3
hours)
(E) Grand Dampers - Ernie Juhn, Long Island-Nassau, NY Chapter
This class covers installation and regulation of grand dampers, using giant
models. Also covered is trouble shooting of "leaking" dampers. Many practical
hints to deal with stubborn damper problem make this class unique. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Grand Piano Action Diagnostics - Willis & David Snyder, Reading-Lancaster,
PA Chapter
Ten action models will be set up in stations around the room. Each model will be
set up with a different problem or set of problems. This class will be divided
into groups of 5 technicians. Each group will examine all the models and make
diagnosis of the problems found. The instructors will then discuss with the
class the problems that exist in each model and provide a course of action to
correct the problem. (3 hours)
(A) Grand Piano Plate and Action Relationships - Alan Vincent, Geneva
International
This class presents information relating to the assembly of actions based on the
location of the plate. If the plate is moved during re-building, the action
assembly will need to be addressed also. If the plate has been mis-located to
begin with, then the tone and performance of the instrument could be negatively
affected. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Keyframe Restoration - David Vanderlip, Orange County, CA Chapter
No action rebuilding is complete unless you restore the keys and keyframe. Many
of the basics are often overlooked or are not considered important. This class
will show an approach to getting the keys and keyframe ready for a fine action
restoration. From polishing pins and capstans to rebushing keys, installing new
backchecks, and more. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Lights, Camera, Action - Rick Florence, Phoenix, AZ Chapter
The class will view footage of high-speed photography of a grand and an upright
action and discuss how it affects our understanding of action parts, regulation
and voicing. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) New Damper Action Installation - Rick Baldassin, Renner USA
The damper, or back action has often been overlooked or neglected during action
restoration, although the parts themselves would warrant replacement, simply
because no replacement system was available. In response to this need, Renner
has produced a new underlever system kit, and in this class, Rick will teach you
how to assemble and install it. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Professional In-Home Grand Action Reconditioning - Charles Ball, Austin, TX
Chapter
The purpose of this class is to demonstrate how grand action reconditioning can
be performed routinely in the home in a thorough and efficient manner that can
be rewarding and profitable for the technician and exceed the expectations of
the client. This presentation will be from the unique perspective of a seasoned
concert technician, accustomed to making quick evaluations and solving problems
in an expeditious manner. Many short-cuts will be demonstrated, including a fast
hammer filing method. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Retrofitting the Grand Action - New Parts on Old Frames - Rick Baldassin,
Renner USA
Many different action designs have been produced over the past 100 years.
Moreover, manufacturers have changed the dimensions of their actions. In this
class, Rick will teach you how to pick the correct action parts for your action
restoration from the new Renner Parts Kit, including assembling a "Universal
Wippen" if no exact replacements are available. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) Taming the New Grand Action - Kathy Smith, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
Now that you have all the new parts on that grand action, how do you get it to
shape up as quickly as possible? This class offers some solutions, emphasizing
the shortest path to get an action working at its best. Included are ideas on
regulation, better stability, efficiency, tools, set-ups and methods. Lots of
great classes cover regulation in general, or geometry and/or parts selection;
this class is intended to go forward from there. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Unlocking the Mysteries of the Grand Damper System - Kevin Stock, Steinway &
Sons
A class for technicians with experience in advanced skill, to observe techniques
in Steinway Grand Regulation adjustment. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Vertical Dampers and Spoons - Ernie Juhn, Long Island-Nassau, NY Chapter
A detailed class with large models covering installation and regulation of
vertical dampers and regulation of spoons. (1 1/2 hours)
Hands-On Classes
Regulation
$35
The hands-on classes listed below require special pre-registration and a
surcharge to help defray the added costs of equipment and materials used in the
classes. Please note: Full convention registration fees must be paid to attend
these classes. The only way to register for these classes 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 and the fees required. 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) Grand Regulation - Preparing for the Technical Exam - Bill McKaig,
Southwest, FL Chapter & Jim Bryant, Northeast Florida Chapter
This class will go through the steps of grand regulation to prepare the
applicant for the Technical exam. The focus of the class will be understanding
the criteria of the grand regulation portion of the Technical exam. The class is
limited to 24 participants. All necessary tools will be supplied. You must
pre-register for this class. (3 hours)
* (B) Vertical Regulation - Brett Dearing and Dale Fox, Sacramento Valley,
CA Chapter
In this hands-on class, participants will get the chance to completely regulate
a three-note action model with pedals. In addition to step-by-step procedures,
this class will stress the principals of regulation, enabling participants to
derive regulation specs from the piano, rather than just from a book. Also
included will be troubleshooting procedures, time saving methods, tool
recommendations and helpful homemade tool ideas. The class is limited to 24
participants. All necessary tools will be supplied. You must pre-register for
this class. (3 hours)
Applied Skills Room
$20/Per Session
Friday Evening and Sunday Morning
Basic - Intermediate - Advanced Skills
Skills-to-Go. Apply Here!
Friday, 6-9 p.m. & Sunday, 8:30-noon
Take home tried and tested skills! Friday night and Sunday morning at the
1997 Institute, PTG will once again present its applied skills sessions. These
sessions will take place in a large hall with over a dozen hands-on work
stations staffed by many of the Guild's finest instructors. Take up to twenty
minutes on each subject, and head to as many tables as you would like. The
takeout menu for this event includes:
hammer hanging
repinning action centers
hammer shaping
ivory chip repairs
grand dampers
string replacement & repairs
bridge notching
vertical regulation
harpsichord maintenance
grand keyframe bedding
getting in & out of the player piano
grand hammer travel & adjustment
broken agraffe removal grand lyres
fitting hammers to strings
hammer extractions
grand string seeding & leveling
Instructors include:
Bill Garlick
Doug Neal
Richard Bittner
Dale Probst
Doug Wood
Isaac Sadigursky
David Brown
Peg Browne
Gina Carter
Shawn Hoar
Ben McKlveen
Norman Neblett
Joe Garrett
Joyce Meekins
Bill MCKaig
Herb Lindahl
Technicians at every level of experience are welcome to try their hand at
these stimulating work stations. All necessary tools and equipment will be
provided. Each three-hour session will cost a nominal $20 fee and can be paid by
check, cash, Visa or MasterCard. You may pre-register along with your convention
registration or by calling Sandy at the Home Office. You may also register
on-site. It is requested that registrants arrive at the classroom 15-30 minutes
early if registering on-site. Space is limited. $20 per 3-hour session.
Business Seminar
(E) Appraisals and Estimates - Steve Brady, Seattle, WA Chapter
In this class you will learn the difference between an appraisal and an
estimate, as well as proven methods for appraising pianos and doing accurate
estimates. You will actually go through the process of calculating an appraisal
yourself. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Developing a Competitive Piano Rental & Sales Business - Anthony Pascone,
Santa Barbara, CA Chapter
Having built a successful rental business over the past 10 years, Anthony will
share knowledge of purchasing and preparing pianos as well as marketing,
advertising and pricing strategies. A class handout will cover rental and
purchasing contracts as well as various forms developed to track the operation
of the business. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Economic Freedom: Planning for Retirement - Beverly Kim, Puget Sound, WA
Chapter
Every working person plans to retire. These plans raise important questions. How
much will you need to save and invest between now and your target retirement
age? How will inflation affect you in retirement? Other questions revolve around
the benefits we provide ourselves and our dependents now. We will discuss all of
these topics as we prepare for our own "Economic Freedom." (1 1/2 hours)
(E) The Internet for Piano Technicians: What to do Once You're On-Line - Andrew
Rudoff, Boulder, CO Chapter
Intended for piano technicians who already have Internet access, this class will
focus on using the Internet in ways you might have missed. Topics covered in
class include: web sites & the best ways to get information from the web;
mailing lists and the e-mail culture; sending and receiving pictures, binary
data, tuning files, etc; what you should not do over the Internet; putting your
own information "out there" on the Net. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Marketing Your Business to the Top - Bob Russell, Cleveland, OH Chapter
This class will explain step-by-step how to develop marketing strategies so you
can become one of the highest paid professionals in our trade. The class will
show you how to increase your tuning business, your climate control business,
and your income! You'll learn how to refine your professional image by using
common sense people skills, marketing tools, and personal presentation to
increase your level of success! (1 1/2 hours)
(B) The Other Keyboard - Using a Computer in Your Piano Service Business -
Jeannie Grassi, Seattle, WA Chapter
This class will cover the many ways a computer can be useful in a business such
as ours. Discussion will be aimed to assist beginning computer users or those
who are trying to decide to take the big step. Various types of software and
hardware will be covered to provide a sense of the many options available. (1
1/2 hours)
(E) Pricing Piano Services - Dale Probst, Texoma, TX Chapter
This class will investigate pricing philosophies in piano and other technical
service professions. The relationships between professional pricing and cost,
value, profit, and quality of life will be explored. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Taking the "WAR" Out of Warranty Service - Brian De Tar, Yamaha
What's the secret to successfully resolving conflict between a customer and a
"problem" with their piano? It may not be what you think. This new class will
leave you uplifted and filled with ideas to improve your "conflict resolution"
success rate. The information gained here will translate directly into a more
self-reliant approach to customer satisfaction. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Tax Strategies for Piano Technicians - W. Murray Bradford, CPA
Learn how to keep the money you make in your pocket. This professional tax
reduction class will help you do that. You may register along with your
convention registration or by calling Sandy at the Home Office. You may also
register on-site. It is requested that registrants arrive at the classroom 15-30
minutes early if registering on-site. Space is limited. (This class is open to
Convention and Auxiliary registrants and spouses.) $65.00 Sat., 8 a.m.-Noon
Business Roundtables - Sunday 8:30 a.m. - Noon
Has something about your business got you stumped? Want to talk about it?
Come to the new Business Roundtables on Sunday morning where you can join a
small group of technicians gathered around a table to explore a topic of vital
interest to your business. The discussion will be facilitated by a technician
who's knowledgeable about the topic.
Subjects at the roundtables will include all of the eight business
seminar classes: warranty work, piano rentals, planning for retirement,
marketing, estimates and appraisals, setting our fees, basic computers, and the
Internet. (It's not necessary to have attended the class before coming to the
roundtables.) In addition, we'll offer roundtables on such topics as using
subcontractors, how to reduce unwanted business, and the pros and cons of
incorporating.
Here's how it works: In one of the large classrooms will be about a dozen
round tables with a facilitator and a sign at each one, indicating the
discussion topic for that table. When you arrive at the classroom, simply sit
down at the table of your choice and you'll have 45 minutes to ask questions and
share information with the facilitator and your peers.
At the end of the 45 minutes, you'll switch to another table with a new
business topic. Since the roundtables will run both first and second periods on
Sunday, each person will have the opportunity to participate in 4 different
discussions.
Take advantage of this opportunity to mine the rich vein of your peers'
information and experience. The Business Roundtables - bring your questions to
the table, leave with answers.
See description of these topics under Business Seminar Classes
(E) Appraisals and Estimates - Steve Brady, Seattle, WA Chapter
(E) The Internet for Piano Technicians: What To Do Once You're On-Line -
Andrew Rudoff, Boulder, CO Chapter
(E) Marketing Your Business to the Top - Bob Russell, Cleveland, OH
Chapter
(E) The Other Keyboard - Using a Computer in Your Piano Service Business
- Jeannie Grassi, Seattle, WA Chapter
(E) Planning for Retirement - Beverly Kim, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
(E) Pricing Piano Services - Dale Probst, Texoma, TX Chapter
(E) Renting Pianos - Anthony Pascone, Santa Barbara, CA Chapter
(E) Taking the "WAR" Out of Warranty Service - Brian De Tar, Yamaha
(E) Increase Your Income Thru Subcontracting - Gina Carter, Charlotte, NC
Chapter
Discussion will focus on the problems and solutions to using
subcontractors for specialized areas of our business.
(E) Reducing Unwanted Business: How to Cut Back on Work Gracefully and
Profitably - LaRoy Edwards, Yamaha
Discussion will focus on what to do with your business when you've got
more than enough.
(E) Why Incorporate - Laura Kunsky, Waukegan, IL Chapter
Discussion will encompass the positive and negative aspects of
incorporation for people in the piano service business.
Design & Manufacture Classes
(I) Add a Foot to Your Piano - Rescale! - Dr. Al Sanderson and David Sanderson,
Inventronics
You may wonder if rescaling a piano really pays off, but it's a fact that the
average 5-foot grand sounds more like a 6-foot grand with a new scale design and
low-inharmonicity bass strings. We will show you how to add this "acoustic foot"
to your too-short baby or teen-age grands. The technical aspects of modern
string design will be covered briefly, and then we will get into the "how-to"
stages-how to make the necessary physical measurements of the old scale, how to
improve the line of the bridge when recapping, and how to change plain wires to
wound strings at the break when necessary. Selling the job is crucial, so we
will also have some practical suggestions on how to sell this "acoustic foot" to
your customer. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) All About Piano Plates - Robert Beck, New Jersey Chapter
Slide tour of the plate making process. Actual foundry artifacts and materials
displayed. Discussion of plate repairs, refinishing and handling. Vacuum process
("V-Pro") casting explained. Practical solutions to piano plate problems will be
discussed. (3 hours)
(E) Building the Boston Piano - Kevin Stock, Steinway & Sons
A class prepared for piano technicians presenting the history, purpose, design,
and construction of the Boston Piano. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Construction and Manufacture of Piano Hammers - Norbert Abel, Helmut Abel
Piano Hammer Company of Germany
Learn the preparations and components to manufacture piano hammers and how
hammers are created. Norbert will also show the making of custom hammers for
antique pianos. He is a manager of Helmut Abel Piano Hammer Company, learning
quality piano hammer construction from his father who has been a hammerhead
maker for more than 35 years. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Woven Felt - Where Is It Used? - Peter Van Stratum - Charles House & Son
Slide tour of our felt mill (a 128-year-old company). Peter will discuss
applications and features of various action felt; what makes good bushing cloth,
and some general discussion. (1 1/2 hours)
General Classes
(E) The History of Mason & Hamlin - Paul Monachino, Mason & Hamlin
The amazing story of the phoenix-like Mason & Hamlin Piano Company (1854-1997)
from a 50 year veteran. The making, the design, the piano and its latest
resurrection by Music Systems Research. (1 1/2 hours)
R. Bruce Hoadley
Wood Technologist
Featured Instructor
The 1997 Technical Institute will feature nine class hours on wood
technology, presented by Professor Bruce Hoadley. Professor Hoadley grew up in
Naugatuck, Connecticut in the 1940s. His boyhood fascination with the woodlands
surrounding his home and his experiments in cabinet making, carpentry and
whittling led first to a degree in forestry from the University of Connecticut,
and later to a doctorate in wood technology from Yale. Today, in addition to
teaching and research at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Hoadley
leads frequent workshops in carving and in wood identification. He is a
contributing editor to Fine Woodworking magazine, and has written articles for
the International Wood Collectors Society Bulletin, Forest Products Journal and
Chip Chats. He is the author of two highly respected books; Understanding Wood
and a second book, Identifying Wood; both published by The Tauton Press.
Professor Hoadley's period 1 and 2 classes on Saturday, Understanding
Wood, will be opened to anyone registered for classes.
Understanding Wood - A macro- and microscopic exploration of the
three-dimensional cellular structure of wood and its variable nature, plus a
comparative survey of the more important species used by woodworkers.
The second two class periods on Saturday and the two class periods on
Sunday, a total of 6 hours, will require pre-registration with a $40 fee for
this special presentation. This exceptional session will cover: The Properties
of Wood; a summary of the more important physical and mechanical properties of
wood and their relationship to woodworking. Wood & Moisture, Part I will cover
basics of wood-moisture relationships and the process of lumber drying, with
emphasis on moisture content and stresses in lumber. Part II addresses basics of
moisture-related dimensional changes in wood and the problems of controlling or
dealing with dimensional instability in wood products. The final session Wood
Gluing Checklist encompasses the twelve fundamentals necessary to successful
gluing and the most common causes of problems in adhesive bonding of wood.
You may pre-register along with your convention registration or by
calling Sandy at the Home Office. You may also register on-site. It is requested
that registrants arrive at the classroom 15-30 minutes early if registering
on-site. Space is limited. 6 hours; Sat. 1:30-5:00 and Sun. 8:30-Noon. This
class require a $40.00 pre-registration fee
Health Classes
(E)Hearing Tests - Ever wonder just how your ears measure up? In Orlando you can
check out the tuner's most important tool, with a minimum of hassle. For only
$15 and 5-10 minutes of your time, the Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center
will test to see if there's a problem with your hearing. You'll also receive a
copy of the test results to take home. Schedule your hearing test today by
calling Sandy at the Home Office (816)753-7747. You may also register on-site if
room permits.
(E) Avoiding Aches & Pains: A Healthy Approach to Piano Technology - John Foy,
Central North Carolina Chapter
Piano technology is hard work. Chronic pain, however, does not have to be our
reward for success. This class will examine the sources of muscular injury in
our profession and will provide guidelines for healthy work habits. Stretching
exercises that can be used every workday will be taught. We will also look at
various means to recovery and sources of treatment from the health care
community. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Chemistry for Piano Technicians - Doug Wood, Seattle, WA Chapter
A little bit of basic chemistry can go a long way in understanding the chemicals
we use in our work. Some of them are hazardous, and some work better than
others. How can you tell? We will cover a little chemistry, Material Safety Data
Sheets, a variety of common chemicals, and how to evaluate chemicals you are not
already familiar with. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) You Should Hear What You're Missing - Dr. Robert Fifer, Audiologist
This presentation will review the fundamentals of hearing and the effects and
prevention of hearing loss. We will discuss how the ear responds to loud sounds,
both in terms of perception as well as damage to the ear. We will also cover
changes due to aging and how this influences speech perception and music
appreciation. (1 1/2 hours)
Player Pianos & Electronics Classes
(B) Restoring & Repairing of Vintage Player Pianos - Ferdinand Pointer -
Southwest Florida Chapter
This class is for technicians with an interest or need to gain the basic
knowledge of how to begin restoring a player piano from the early 1900's.
Emphasis will be on 88-note foot-pump players. Covered through discussion,
slides, and hands-on materials, topics will include: How a pneumatic player
works, materials needed for repairs, how to cover a pneumatic, make a gasket,
unclog a bleed, replace a pouch, etc. Additionally, information on how to
differentiate a reproducer from a Recordo or 88-note player will be covered. A
complete hand-out of resources and materials will be provided. (1 1/2 hours)
(E) Servicing the Disklavier & Silent Piano - Bill Brandom, Yamaha
This class will give you a good overview of the features and functions found in
the Disklavier and Silent upright and grand pianos. We'll include general tuning
and regulating service, action removal, and a peek at the functions of the
exciting new instruments. You will get a first-hand look at these
acoustic/digital hybrid pianos. You'll emerge with a taste of the exciting music
potential in these remarkable piano systems for the future. (1 1/2 hours)
(A) Servicing the System - Donald Dusenbury, PianoDisc
This 6-hour class will qualify the technician to service the PianoDisc system.
There will be a certificate sent and you will be listed at the factory to
receive Technical Bulletins. (Please note that this class will be held all day
Friday at the Holiday Inn.)
(B) Servicing Player Pianos From the 1950s-1980s - Ferdinand Pointer, Southwest
Florida Chapter
This class will teach the non-player technician how to identify and solve common
problems associated with players from this period. Through slides, discussion,
and hands-on materials the technician will learn about tracking devices, action
cut-out valves, replacement of plastic unit valves, linkage adjustments, fuses,
electrical problems, and transmissions. Aeolian, Kimball, Universal, Wurlitzer,
and Kohler & Campbell will be covered. Hand-outs will include a troubleshooting
guide and resource directory. (1 1/2 hours)
(I) QuietTime - A Marriage of Acoustic & Keyboard - Donald Dusenbury, PianoDisc
We will present an overview of our QuietTime product and how to install it. (1
1/2 hours)
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC