[pianotech] Price the market will bear

[tnrwim at aol.com]

It only included the consulation and advice. This single item cost the sterling equivalent of $1,383.



I'm so sorry for you loss. My condolences to you and your family. 

Depending on the amount of time, and the value of the advice, they might feel justified charging that much. The question is, do you think you got your money's worth? Did you ask for the advice, or the consultation, or did they give to you, even if it wasn't asked? I would question the amount, if you're not comfortable paying it






-----Original Message-----
From: David Boyce <David at piano.plus.com>
To: pianotech <pianotech at ptg.org>
Sent: Wed, Jan 19, 2011 3:17 pm
Subject: [pianotech] Price the market will bear


I was reflecting on a discussion we had here a couple of years ago about pricing, and what the market will bear.  

My Mother died on 24th December, aged 84 after a short illness with cancer.  I got the itemised invoice from the Funeral Directors, a reputable national chain. They provided an efficent and helpful service.  The largest item on the Itemised invoice was for "Provision of all professional services including appropriate advice, support and guidance". This item did NOT include the actual arrangements - funeral car, hearse, casket, personnel, cremation fees etc. It only included the consulation and advice. This single item cost the sterling equivalent of $1,383.

Now, we might very well advise a customer about their piano, and we may employ considerable experience as a basis for our professional judgement and recommendation. We may spend some time talking over options with the customer, and we may make phone calls for them to check various matters.  For giving such advice, could we charge $1,383?

The market for funerals will bear high prices, as people are under pressure emotionally and they have to proceed fairly quickly, and the body of the deceased HAS to be dealt with.  

Similarly, if the soil pipe is blocked and sewage is flooding your driveway, you HAVE to get it fixed, even if the plumber is very expensive.

But piano problems?  Getting them fixed isn't really a necessity.

So I doubt I will be charging $1,383 for professional piano advice any time soon.

Best regards,

David Boyce.

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