job opening

[Allen Wright]

PIANO TECHNICIAN

The Office of the Associate Dean for Technology and Facilities invites
applications for the position of Piano Technician  in the Oberlin College
Conservatory of Music.  This is a full-time, 12-month Administrative and
Professional Staff appointment reporting to the Director of Piano
Technology.  

The Oberlin Conservatory is America¹s oldest school dedicated to the
training of professional musicians.  Founded in 1865, it was the first
college-affiliated conservatory in the United States, and is internationally
recognized as one of the nation¹s finest music schools.  As the only major
music school in the country specializing in the education of musicians at
the undergraduate level, the Oberlin Conservatory is known for the
excellence of its comprehensive program, renowned faculty, and superb
facilities, as well as for its location in one of the nation¹s leading
undergraduate liberal arts colleges.

Oberlin Conservatory has a collection of 194 Steinways (174 grands), most of
which are kept under strict environmental control. The Conservatory also has
a fine collection of historical keyboard instruments.  Oberlin possesses the
second largest collection of Steinway pianos in the world, and the
Conservatory is Steinway¹s oldest ongoing customer. Our pianos experience
minimal pitch fluctuation and wood damage. They are part of a relatively
young collection (161 built between 1930 and 1970) and are very rebuildable.
Our shop operation rebuilds 15 to 20 pianos per year.

Responsibilities:  The incumbent will be responsible for, but not limited
to, the following duties:
… Work collaboratively with the Director and in all phases of tuning,
voicing, regulation, repairing, and rebuilding of conservatory pianos.
… Assist with Inventory and record-keeping. 
… Assist with the training and supervision of employees in the Department of
Piano Technology.
… Work to establish effective communication with faculty members about piano
condition and maintenance.
… Work irregular hours to ensure pianos are ready for concert use.  

Requirements:  At least 10 years experience as a piano technician, including
experience in rebuilding Steinway concert pianos; demonstrated ability to
manage programs, projects, and people; strong, well-developed, interpersonal
skills, including working with artists and subordinates; concert tuning
experience at the highest level; and excellent references. Must be a
Registered Tuner/Technician with the Piano Technicians Guild, Inc.  Desired
Qualifications:  Experience at an organization similar to the Oberlin
Conservatory.  Strong preference will be given to a candidate who meets the
above requirements and has extensive experience with Steinway pianos.  A
college degree (especially in a music area) and experience working with
historical keyboard instruments are desirable.

Compensation:  Within the salary range established by the College, this
position will be filled at a salary commensurate with experience.  The
benefits package includes health and life insurance, tuition remission for
eligible children, a generous retirement plan, etc.  

To Apply: Submit letter of application, résumé, and three references with
telephone numbers to: Michael Lynn, Associate Dean, Oberlin College
Conservatory of Music, Oberlin, OH  44074, by August 14, 2000.  Late
applications may be accepted until the position is filled. 

July 21, 2000