[pianotech] charging for concert work

[Gerald Groot]

See my answers injected between your questions.

Jer

-----Original Message-----
From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of David Weiss
Sent: Monday, July 12, 2010 5:50 PM
To: pianotech at ptg.org
Subject: [pianotech] charging for concert work


I would like some advice on how to charge for a concert tuning.

A concert hall in my area contacted me and asked if I could tune for three
concerts next fall.  The piano needs to be tuned at 4pm, the artist (usually
solo piano) rehearses from 5 to 6. Then I meet with the artist at 6, and
from 6 to 7 take care of his/her requests and do any other needed prep. The
doors open at 7 and the concert begins at 7:30.  There is no requirement to
attend the concert but they provide me with tickets if I would like to. 

First question: do I charge more for a concert tuning than a house tuning?

Yes.  It takes more time effort and skill to do a concert tuning.  

Second question: although I am free while the artist rehearses, it's not
enough time to leave and come back.  (Also parking is too difficult to leave
and come back.)  Is it appropriate to charge for that time, even though I'm
not actually doing any work?

Yes.  I charge by the hour regardless if I am waiting to talk to the artist,
setting back stage, working on the piano or just plain being available for
them.  I call it "standby time."  

Third question: during the third hour, when I taking care of artist requests
and other last minute prep, should I charge my usual repair rate?  Typically
I have a fee for the first hour, and additional hours are billed at a
slightly lower rate.

I always charge my typical hourly rate which is the same regardless of the
amount of time involved. I never charge less for additional hours.  Why
should we?  Mechanics don't.  

As for any additional tunings, I always charge my regular rate whether it be
a touch up tuning or a full concert tuning.  It still requires a heck of a
lot more skill and usually time too, than doing a home tuning.  

Thanks in advance for your advice.

David Weiss



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