CAUT in KC

[Jeff Tanner]

I have only been a member of the guild for about a year (because the
closest chapter had always been close to 200 miles away and with low income
was cost prohibitive) and so I have never had the opportunity to attend a
convention.  However, if the suggestions which have been given wind up
being used as subject matter for discussion, presentation, etc., I will
make an effort to try to go to KC.

I would be particularly interested in inventory management and
documentation as well as discussion of a class in piano technology.  Here's
why:

Fourteen and a half years ago I found out about an introductory workshop in
piano technology being taught at the University of South Carolina and I (a
junior in high school at the time) registered for it.  At this two-week
workshop I learned just enough to make me dangerous!  But it did really
light a spark... and I knew what my limitations were.  Luckily, when I
started college, I was able to work as a PAID part-time student assistant
to the piano technician at the University of Georgia (we won't discuss how
long I was a student).  My skills improved, etc., etc.

I recently have been hired as the piano technician at University of South
Carolina upon the retirement of the gentleman who taught that first class I
ever took in piano technology.

MY CAREER AS A PIANO TECHNICIAN BEGAN WITH ONE OF THESE CLASSES!

I would be more than interested in how other technicians would approach
such a class which is so limited in time (not to mention how to do it
between maintaining 130 pianos).  I think the administration is interested
in offering a similar class again (it hasn't been offered almost since I
took it) but I feel like the PTG should assemble some sort of "PTG
Approved" course (or at least guidelines) before I am willing to offer it.
Besides, I don't have the time to sit down and organize a course by myself.
In our part of the US, there are very few educational opportunities which
can guide an interested person in the right direction.

I don't think such a class could ever be designed to train someone to go
out and start a business.  There's just not enough time.  But, as in my
case, it could teach certain basics and for those who choose to pursue it
further, it could get them off on the right foot.

My thoughts.
Jeff Tanner

Jeff Tanner, Piano Technician
School of Music
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC 29208
(803)-777-4392 (phone)
(803)-777-6508 (fax)