[pianotech] Don't leave!

[Mark Schecter]

Friends,

I want to express my concern that people are so disgusted with HL that they are considering dropping out of PTG. I know that the response to problems with HL from the powers that be has been tone-deaf and unsatisfactory. To me, to us, it's obvious that pianotech should not be discontinued, and it's understandable that people would move to create and join an alternative off-campus that fulfills the same purpose in an agreeable way. I have already signed up, and would continue with it as before, regardless. 

But, while I recognize that pianotech is one of the main features of interest of PTG on the day-to-day, are there not other longer-range values of the organization beyond the list? For example, conventions, classes, professional camaraderie, long-term friendships, public recognition, and strength in numbers? Would we really rather be affiliated only through Google, and otherwise acting as lone wolves?

I, for one, value highly the knowledge and experience of the people on this list, and would not like the prospect of losing access, were there no alternative. But there is an alternative, and it's not too difficult, no matter which substitute wins out in the long run. But I also value highly the knowledge and experience of other members of PTG who don't necessarily participate much if at all on this or other mail lists. For myself, while I am frustrated at the poor performance of HL and would like it replaced with something good, I can't see quitting the only professional organization of piano techs over it, and living in limbo ever after. That to me is really throwing out the baby with the bathwater, and I would deeply regret the loss of fellowship that I imagine would ensue. 

Could we not come up with a satisfactory way to communicate via email, and yet continue to support and develop PTG? It has been too important to me to just watching the impending departure of some of our most valuable members, without at least questioning whether the emotions of the moment might not moderate with time and action towards a solution to the current problem. In other words, please don't go! We can fix this. 

~Mark Schecter, RPT