[pianotech] Ethics and efficacy of part-time tuning

[David Boyce]

"I think he's saying, if we are going to tune, whether full time or part 
time, do it right or don't do it at all.  That's how I'm reading it.   I 
also agree with that philosophy".

I'm interested in the strong views being eloquently expressed here.  I have 
a feeling that the 'mindset' is more open in the trade in the USA than in 
the UK. There are those who take the view that if you are not full time, you 
CANNOT do it right, and therefore should not be doing it at all.

As one who's doing it part time, that's naturally not a view with which I am 
particularly in sympathy!

In the UK, the pianoforte tuners association makes the following 
stipulations regarding the possibility of Membership:

5. To qualify for Membership of the Association an applicant must:
either: have trained as a Pianoforte Tuner, Technician or Maker in a 
reputable factory or workshop for not less than three years, or have 
completed an approved course in Pianoforte Tuning or Technical Studies at a 
recognised College and have gained the proficiency certificate, and has 
subsequently earned a living as a Pianoforte Tuner, Technician or Maker for 
a period (at least two years) which, combined with the training period, is 
at least five years,
or: have earned a living as a Pianoforte Tuner, Technician or Maker for at 
least seven years.
at the time of application, currently be engaged in the piano industry

and

either: pass a practical test of tuning and elementary repairs, and an oral 
test of his knowledge of tuning, construction and repair of pianos.
or - if applying for Technician membership - pass an assessment of practical 
ability and theoretical knowledge in a specialist field of piano technology.

(from http://www.pianotuner.org.uk/pta4.htm )

You will notice that the wording here leaves little room for those earning 
supplementary income from piano work. Although, no actual definition is 
given of "earned a living".

Is the membership requirement for the PTG in addition to passing the test, 
equally stringent?

Best regards,

David.