Laws , Piano tuning, and Associations

[Michael Jorgensen]

Hi Richard,
     Such a licensing law is depressing.  I don't worry about the "tooners" who
have come and gone over the years.   People appreciate good work even more when
they've experienced bad work.  I wouldn't want my customers feeling as if they are
being used by a group of licensed monopolistic practitioners demanding high prices
which I would need to be a member of.  If someone complains about my fee, I'm glad
they can call -----.    Often next time they seek an RPT without complaint and
thankfully pay the higher fee.   In some things regulation is essential, but how
many people have died because of bad work from a piano tuner?  I've seen my share
of twine bridle tapes, drinking straw shanks, and improper sized strings, but I
have yet to see an actual ruined piano.

-Mike Jorgensen RPT,
@ home in the United States of America --Thank the Lord,
LET FREEDOM REIGN!

Richard Brekne wrote:

> List.
>
> Thought I would share with you the following information.
>
> In Norway, there is a proposal before the government to restrict by law the
> useage of the titles "Piano Tuner" "Piano Technician", and to forbid anyone
> from selling work on pianos unless they are certified. The Association is
> working actively here to find an acceptable curicculum and examanitions
> proceedure to be included at the University level of study for those interested
> in becoming techs. The proposed testing is quite involved and includes a good
> deal of rebuilding skills, tuning theory, and of course a tuning and regulating
> exam. It would take 2 - 3 days to accomplish. 4 years of study would be
> required.
>
> The proposed law has actually a reasonably good chance of being passed. Seems
> like the biggest hinder at this point is how exactly to set up the course for
> study.
>
> In light of recent discussions regarding the Journal CD, I thought this might
> be of interest. I am skeptical to the proposed law as I question whether the
> authorities are willing to enforce it or not. If so.. then I would support it.
> If one is first going to restrict a trade (electricians, plumbers, pianowork,
> or any other trade), it must be done by law, and with the sole purpose of
> preventing those who are not competent in any given field from takeing money
> from the public for such work.
>
> Finland has such a law, and to my knowledge it is very workable. This of course
> does not prevent someone from tinkering with their own piano, or a friend from
> talking you into tinkering with yours. But it does severely limit amature / non
> proffesional work.
>
> If the law is passed in Norway, no one will be able to advertise, accept
> payment for work,  use the titles, or in anyway perform any tasks of a piano
> tech in any commercial sense unless they have authorised  certification from
> the acrediting authorities in Norway.
>
> Richard Brekne
> ICPTG