[CAUT] Piano juries on concert instruments

[Jim Busby]

Hi Paul,

Dave is right on with me as well. I've been at BYU for 9 years and the faculty/staff are like family to me.
While I would like more money (who wouldn't) the salary and benefits are sufficient for my needs, but the people are why I stay more than the money. 


Regards,
Jim Busby



-----Original Message-----
From: caut-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:caut-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Paul Milesi
Sent: Monday, January 04, 2010 5:13 PM
To: PTG CAUT List
Subject: Re: [CAUT] Piano juries on concert instruments

As someone new to this list (4 months), new to being a CAUT (started last
February), and relatively inexperienced as a technician (5 years), I have
been following this thread with great interest and considerable dismay.  I
don't know any of you on this list personally, but now I feel compelled to
say a big "Thank You" to Dave Porritt for expressing so clearly and
succinctly what I have been wanting to say for some time now.  I agree with
and echo his views wholeheartedly.

At Howard University, I am being treated with the utmost respect.  My rather
radical departures from previous techs in everything from instrument
allocation to the types of work performed are welcomed with interest and
enthusiasm.  I am accorded great deference and freedom in terms of my work
schedule, and the goals and priorities I set for the work I perform.  They
have, for the first time, set aside a practice room that I use as a
shop/office, and provided funds for the necessary shelving, etc.  Yes, I
choose to work plenty of evenings and weekends, when access is easy and I am
relaxed.  I voluntarily attend recitals to assess my own work and the needs
and talents of our faculty and student body, and to enjoy fellowship with
others who love music.

As I've read this thread, I have sometimes thought that the reason things
are working so well for me is that I am a reasonably accomplished pianist,
and that helps me to earn the respect of the music faculty and students.
But I'm not sure that's really the reason.  I believe it has more to do with
my attitude, and with my willingness to give freely of myself, my time, and
my knowledge and skills -- my enthusiasm.  Yes, I'm probably one of those
who could be accused of giving things away, but I'm happier for it.  And
there is no end to the explicit expression of appreciation I am shown, by
both faculty and students.  Priceless.

At this point, I look forward to a long, enjoyable and productive
relationship with HU.  I know that expectations may change as music chairs
and college deans come and go, but for now, at least, I've found a very
fulfilling role to play in a musical community.

Paul
--