tuning next to feathered lookersons

[Larry Trischetta]

Martin,
I had a very similar experience thinking I was all alone in the house until
I heard the large parrot coughing...it sounded so real. I thought someone
came home, but it was the bird. Then he wouldn't stop talking. I never
mentioned it to the clients, but the parrot was coughing and kept saying
"let's get high". Good thing I was just the piano tuner!!!
Larry Trischetta

-----Original Message-----
From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Martin Wisenbaker
Sent: Sunday, February 10, 2008 9:10 PM
To: pianotech at ptg.org
Subject: Re: tuning next to feathered lookersons

Several years ago I was tuning a Hamburg Steinway grand at a house where
the lady had left me alone, I thought. When I got into the upper treble I
heard two parrots "accompanying" me. They were in an atrium behind me.
One was mimicking whatever note I was playing and the other was singing
opera. When I stopped, they stopped. When I started again so did they. I
finally managed to finish. It was just unbelievable to hear these two
parrots. I have encountered other parrots at other places. I have learned
that if their cage should be covered with a sheet or some other large
cloth they will think it is night time and will quit singing and/or
talking.

Also, one other time I was tuning a restored old Steinway grand and a
loose cockatiel that was flying around in the room landing on top of my
head. I sat still hoping I would not need to shampoo my hair so very
soon. The lady came in, saw the bird and took it and put it in its cage. 

Martin Wisenbaker, RPT
Houston, Texas