Vs: Part-timers again

[Wimblees]

In a message dated 98-02-28 14:27:49 EST, you write:

<< Are you a member of both the American piano tuners organisations or is
 it three :-).
 
 Barrie. >>


Barrie:

I belong only to the PTG. I have heard of the (MPT?), but it is based
primarily on the East Coast. I do not know of any other viable organization in
the US. (there are a few in Canada). 

Anyone can belong to the PTG as an Associate member. One does not have to
prove ability of any kind in order to belong, as long as they pay their dues.
The PTG does have Registered Piano Technicians (RPT), who pass a three part
exam. Written, for which an examinee is allowed 1 hour, covers aspect of
tuning, repairs, regulation, design, and some history. Technical, which is a
three part hands on test on vertical regulation, grand regulation, and
repairs.  And a tuning exam, in which an examinee has 90 minutes to tune one
string on each note of the piano, (which has been untuned), followed by a
stablity test, and a unison test on the middle two octaves. One is allowed to
use an Electronic Tuning Device, but in order to pass the exam, the examinee
has to set a temperament and tune the middle 2 octaves by ear, and the unisons
have to be tuned by ear. The technical and tuning exam each take about 4
hours. 

Our seminars and institutes are open to anyone, however members of the PTG
ususally get a break on the registration fee. (Or to put it an other way, non-
members pay more to attend). 

Willem Blees