The Guild needs associates. They (associates) should not be confused with apprentices. The historic guilds classified members as Master, Journeyman and Apprentice. I am not sure but I think some guilds allowed individuals of associated trades to pay dues and belong as "Associates" and allowed certain privelages while agreeing to support guild policies and practices. This is what I like about the "associate" status of the Piano Tuner's Guild today. For those who aspire to become RPT let them be called "Apprentice" and enjoy the previleges and benefits of that classification to which Associates and RPT's contribute and help make the transition possible. ---ric
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