Piano Tech Radio Hour
"Inspiring the Future of the Piano Tech Community" Each Saturday at 2 pm ET we'll meet via video stream with a special guest. In continuing support of you as a quarantined piano technician, and in your life beyond, it's another free resource brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclasses. For more information visit: http://www.pianotechradio.com
Mon, November 25, 2024
A Classical Get-Together w/ Tiffany Poon
In this episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we welcome Tiffany Poon, a renowned classical pianist born in Hong Kong in 1996 and currently based in New York City. Tiffany shares her extraordinary journey from moving to New York at nine years old to join Juilliard's prestigious pre-college division on a full scholarship, studying under Yo Kalinsky. Her education continued at Columbia University in a joint program with Juilliard, where she was mentored by eminent pianists Emmanuel Ax and Joseph Ekstein. Tiffany discusses her extensive international performance career, including debuts across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Highlights of her career include performances at Carnegie Hall, Steinway Hall, and the Kennedy Center, as well as her debut with the Berlin Symphony Orchestra and a sold-out recital at the Dresden Music Festival. Her debut album, "Diaries Schumann," released in February 2024, has been a resounding success, topping Apple Music classical charts across four continents with over 2.3 million streams. Off stage, Tiffany is also known for her vibrant YouTube community of over 325,000 subscribers, where she shares her musical journey to demystify classical music. In 2020, she founded the charity "Together with Classical," which champions classical music education and community through various initiatives. In our conversation, Tiffany delves into her early days as a young pianist, the transition from Hong Kong to New York, and the challenges and triumphs along the way. She also shares insights into her practice routines, the nuances of piano performance, and the importance of understanding the complexities of piano mechanics for both technicians and pianists. We explore the intersection of technology and classical music, discussing the impact of digital pianos, self-playing pianos, and the future of acoustic pianos in preserving the richness and depth of classical music. Tiffany also highlights her nonprofit work, emphasizing the need to broaden the reach of classical music and make it more accessible and relatable to a diverse audience. About Tiffany Poon: Tiffany Poon is a trailblazing young classical pianist, born in Hong Kong in 1996 and now based in New York City. At just nine years old, she moved to New York to join the prestigious Juilliard School Pre-College Division on a full scholarship, studying under Yo Kalinsky. She continued her education at Columbia University through a joint program with Juilliard, under the tutelage of eminent pianists Emmanuel Ax and Joseph Ekstein. Tiffany has an extensive and varied international performance career, having debuted across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Notable venues include Carnegie Hall, Steinway Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Mozart Saal, and Bologna. Highlights include her debut with the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin and a sold-out recital at the Dresdner Musikfestspiele. Her de
Fri, November 22, 2024
The Fandrich Legacy of Innovation w/ Heather Fandrich
In this episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour , Heather Fandrich provides an in-depth exploration of the Fandrich Vertical Action, highlighting its innovations in reliability and responsiveness compared to traditional upright actions. She explains the Fandrich-Rhodes method of weighing off actions, a technique highly regarded across the piano industry for its effectiveness. Heather brings these technical aspects to life with engaging stories and visual examples, making complex concepts accessible and informative for listeners. The episode also delves into Heather's personal journey in the piano world, her early exposure to piano technology through Darrell Fandrich's vertical action prototype, and her family's rich legacy in the industry. She shares her recent return to piano playing after decades, including her enthusiasm for tackling challenging pieces like Chopin's Cantabile. Heather also discusses the future of the Fandrich Vertical Action, sharing how efforts are being made to expand the reach of this innovative design and bring it to a wider audience. This episode is a captivating mix of technical insight, personal history, and a glimpse into the future of piano innovation. Listeners will also gain insight into Heather's perspective on the importance of maintaining high standards in piano craftsmanship and how technological advancements can enhance, rather than replace, traditional techniques. Her passion for preserving the artistry of piano making, while embracing forward-thinking innovations, offers a compelling narrative for anyone interested in the evolution of the piano industry. About Heather Fandrich: Heather Fandrich has been studying piano since the age of five. Despite growing up with a less-than-ideal piano, her passion for music never waned. Her first experience with a truly musical piano came when she played the prototype of Darrell Fandrich's vertical action, which inspired her even more deeply. Heather's connection to piano innovation runs in her family. Her husband, Robert Jenny, wrote Darrell Fandrich's first two patents, and Heather later married Darrell, only to discover that her interest in pianos was in her genes. Her great-great-grandhusband, Frederick Mathushek, was a noted piano designer and builder in the late 1800s. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Subscribe to radio hour for just $16/mo and get direct access to each weeks private zoom call, as well as all the archival recordings of hundreds of episodes in our member area. Join using by visiting https://bit.ly/joinptrh Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclasses. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repa
Wed, November 13, 2024
A Fine Musician's Life w/ Eric Clark & Hannah Reimann
In this episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we are pleased to introduce Eric Clark and Hannah Reimann, two highly acclaimed pianists renowned for their masterful interpretations of various classical composers, including Stravinsky, Liszt, Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart, Bach, Haydn, Grieg, and Tchaikovsky. Eric and Hannah share insights into their musical journeys, offering a comprehensive look at their paths to establishing their musical voices. Eric Clark discusses his musical journey from his teenage years in rock bands to his classical studies at Carnegie Mellon University. Influenced by his esteemed mentor, Enrique Graf, Eric transitioned from a double major in chemistry and piano to focusing solely on music. He also reflects on his time studying with the legendary Byron Janis, emphasizing the importance of singing in piano playing. Throughout the episode, Eric's performances showcase his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Hannah Reimann brings her own unique experiences to the conversation. She has performed extensively across various prestigious venues and has a profound connection to the world of classical music. She shares her insights on live performances, influential teachers, and the importance of cultural engagement in experiencing classical music. Eric's performances of complex and emotionally rich pieces, such as Chopin's Scherzo No. 3 in C Minor and Mendelssohn's "Duetto," are shared with listeners. These performances spark a discussion about the complexity and emotional depth of the music, as well as the lyrical quality that Eric brings to each piece through his technique and interpretation. Eric also shares personal stories, including the restoration of his great-grandfather's Steinway piano and his connection to recording engineer Joe Patrich, to whom he pays tribute through his performances. These anecdotes offer a glimpse into the personal and historical influences that have shaped his musical journey. The episode explores Ericβs methods of discovering new repertoire through competitions, festivals, and teachers. Hannah complements this by sharing her own experiences with discovering new music and the impact of live concerts and mentorship on her career. They both encourage listeners to explore live classical music and engage culturally by experiencing real-life performances. About Eric Clark: Eric Clark is an American pianist who has achieved international recognition and acclaim. He was invited to compete in the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2013, and was the only American contestant to attend the First International Chopin Competition on Period Instruments in Warsaw, Poland in 2018. Eric performs regularly at prestigious venues throughout New York City and Europe, has appeared as a soloist with several orchestras, and is an avid performer in chamber ensembles and in jazz ensembles. He regularly transcribes pieces for his own performan
Wed, November 06, 2024
Peruvian Presidential Palace Pianos w/ Eathan Janney
In Episode 80 of Piano Tech Radio Hour , host Eathan Janney takes us on a captivating journey into the Peruvian Presidential Palace, where two exceptional pianosβa Steinway and a historic Pleyelβawait discovery. Building on the stories shared in previous episodes, this exploration highlights the unique craftsmanship, cultural significance, and preservation of these remarkable instruments within a historical setting. Eathanβs deep dive into these pianos includes a visually rich exploration of each instrumentβs intricate design and action mechanism, examining the delicate woodwork and unique features that contribute to their tonal qualities. With a focus on the rare Pleyel, known for its refined touch and expressive sound, Eathan discusses the artistry behind this pianoβs creation, as well as the meticulous care needed to preserve its character over time. The Steinway, celebrated for its resonant tone, offers a contrast in both style and sound, reflecting the diversity within the world of historic piano-making. This episode is a celebration of the intersection between technical skill, cultural appreciation, and historical preservation. Tune in to experience these iconic pianos up close and gain a deeper understanding of how musical heritage can be honored through thoughtful care and craftsmanship. About Eathan Janney: Eathan Janney brings over 22 years of experience as a skilled piano technician, having trained with some of the most notable mentors in the field. Since relocating to Brooklyn in 2009, Eathan has built a strong reputation in the NYC area, becoming an active member of the Piano Technicians Guild and earning the title of registered piano technician. Beyond his piano expertise, Eathan holds a PhD in Biology from CUNY, where his research explored the intersection between birdsong and music. His interdisciplinary work has gained international recognition, including prestigious residencies with the Djerassi Resident Artists Program. As a cultural ambassador, Eathan has worked in Peru, using his piano skills to foster cross-cultural connections. Currently, Eathan is the driving force behind Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online educational initiative designed for piano technicians worldwide. He is also the co-founder of Edge of Company, a pioneering venture supporting ecosystems in emerging tech through events and media like the Outer Edge LA convention and the Edge of AI podcast. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Subscribe to radio hour for just $16/mo and get direct access to each weeks private zoom call, as well as all the archival recordings of hundreds of episodes in our member area. Join using by visiting https://bit.ly/joinptrh Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclasses. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conve
Fri, October 25, 2024
Sonata Secrets w/ Henrik Kilhamn
In this milestone episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we delve into the extraordinary world of Swedish pianist Henrik Kilhamn. Based in Gothenburg, Henrik is a concert pianist, chamber musician, and accompanist with an impressive career that includes solo recitals and collaborations with renowned ensembles such as the Gothenburg Opera House Orchestra, Symphony Choir, and Vocal Ensemble. Henrik's musical journey began at the age of six with the Suzuki method. Guided by his mentor Enrique Graf, he transitioned from pursuing dual majors in chemistry and piano to dedicating himself entirely to music. In 2019, he launched the YouTube channel Sonata Secrets , which quickly grew to over 40,000 followers and 2.5 million views, offering enthusiastic and analytical explanations of classical music. Over the past eight years, Henrik has thrived as a freelance musician, focusing on accompanying students, choirs, and singers, as well as performing solo recitals and concertos. He seamlessly integrates his live performances with his YouTube content, creating videos that reach a global audience and share his deep passion for classical music. Henrik reflects on his experiences as a freelance musician, discussing his instruments, including a Yamaha C3 grand and a vintage German upright, and his collaborations with piano technicians. He also explores his deep interest in aesthetic philosophies and music theory, which he shares through blog posts and videos. Henrik also shares his future plans for continuing his work on Sonata Secrets and possibly expanding his writing on music theory, aiming to delve deeper into the frequencies, experiences, structures, and narratives within music perception. Henrikβs channel has become a haven for those seeking to understand and appreciate classical music, especially during the pandemic lockdowns. Listeners are treated to a fascinating discussion about the intersection of modern technology and classical music, as Henrik shares how Sonata Secrets became a haven for music enthusiasts, especially during the pandemic lockdowns. He also reveals his future plans to expand his work, continuing to inspire and educate audiences worldwide. Join us for this insightful episode, and explore Henrik Kilhamnβs unique blend of tradition and innovation in the world of classical music. About Henrik Kilhamn: Henrik Kilhamn is a concert pianist, chamber musician, and accompanist based in Gothenburg, Sweden. He works regularly with the Gothenburg Opera house orchestra as well as the Gothenburg Symphony choir and vocal ensemble. One of his post-pandemic highlights was playing the program βScreen symphonyβ with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra featuring TV series music, including the Downton Abbey theme for piano and orchestra. Henrik plays solo recitals regularly around western Sweden, and in 2022 he championed a programme of piano music by Scr
Wed, October 23, 2024
Erard, Pleyel, and Peruvian Musical Diplomacy w/ Eathan Janney
In this episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour , host Eathan Janney continues the exciting journey through Peru, following up on the adventures from Episodes 76 and 77. This time, Eathan recounts his experiences in the vibrant city of Lima, uncovering rare and historical pianos in surprising locations. Eathan shares the story of a remarkable discoveryβan 1875 Erard piano, tucked away in a bookstore in Lima. This piano, once a diplomatic gift from a Chilean ambassador, offers a fascinating look into antique piano design. From its unique metal components acting as backchecks to its straight-strung layout, we break down the pianoβs unique features and the challenges it presents for maintenance and restoration. In addition, Eathan recounts his visit to Peruβs Presidential Palace, where he found two culturally significant yet neglected pianosβa Steinway and a Pleyel. These pianos were gifts exchanged as symbols of diplomatic ties, and their rich history offers insights into the cultural impact of music diplomacy. The episode also delves into the practical challenges of restoring these pianos, particularly in a city like Lima where climate and resources add layers of complexity to the restoration process. Eathan shares technical advice on handling these issues, including strategies for mitigating humidity damage and sourcing replacement parts for rare instruments. Whether you're a seasoned piano technician, a history enthusiast, or a lover of musical heritage, this episode offers a captivating blend of technical knowledge, cultural exploration, and historical storytelling. Tune in to episode 79 to explore the hidden piano treasures of Lima and dive deeper into the art of restoration in unique settings. About Eathan Janney: Eathan Janney brings over 22 years of experience as a skilled piano technician, having trained with some of the most notable mentors in the field. Since relocating to Brooklyn in 2009, Eathan has built a strong reputation in the NYC area, becoming an active member of the Piano Technicians Guild and earning the title of registered piano technician. Beyond his piano expertise, Eathan holds a PhD in Biology from CUNY, where his research explored the intersection between birdsong and music. His interdisciplinary work has gained international recognition, including prestigious residencies with the Djerassi Resident Artists Program. As a cultural ambassador, Eathan has worked in Peru, using his piano skills to foster cross-cultural connections. Currently, Eathan is the driving force behind Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online educational initiative designed for piano technicians worldwide. He is also the co-founder of Edge of Company, a pioneering venture supporting ecosystems in emerging tech through events and media like the Outer Edge LA convention and the Edge of AI podcast. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Subscribe to radi
Fri, October 18, 2024
Dealers, Techs and Piano Innovation w/ Ric Overton
In this unique episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour , weβre thrilled to sit down with Ric Overton, a true veteran of the piano world, whose career spans decades of expertise and hands-on work. Ric brings his unique perspective on the craft of piano technology, blending stories of personal experiences with insights into how the industry has transformed over time. From his humble beginnings in piano tuning to becoming a go-to expert for complex restorations, Ricβs journey is filled with dedication, learning, and a deep passion for the instrument. He shares the challenges and triumphs of his work, revealing the creative problem-solving that goes into each project. Whether it's troubleshooting mechanical issues or restoring a piano to its former glory, Ric's methodical approach and love for the craft are sure to inspire. But itβs not just about technical skillβRic also opens up about the changing landscape of piano technology. He offers a fascinating look at how modern advancements are shaping the way technicians work, from the introduction of hybrid pianos to the evolution of tools and techniques. As a strong advocate for our community, Ric emphasizes the power of collaboration and lifelong learning. He believes that the heart of the industry lies in the relationships among professionals, and how sharing knowledge and experiences can drive the craft forward. This episode delves into the importance of building connections, learning from others, and contributing to a vibrant, supportive network of piano professionals. Ricβs thoughtful advice for aspiring technicians rounds out the conversation, offering practical tips for those entering the field. He encourages patience, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvementβtraits that have defined his own success. Whether youβre a seasoned piano technician looking for fresh insights, or someone new to the world of piano technology, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a celebration of the craft. Join us to hear Ricβs story, his expert advice, and his reflections on the evolving world of piano technology! About Ric Overton: Ric Overton is a seasoned piano industry pro and the owner of R. Kassman, Purveyor of Fine Pianos, located in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over four decades of experience in the piano industry, his expertise spans piano performance, choir direction, and piano retail management. Ricβs profound knowledge of the global piano business has made him a respected figure among musicians and technicians alike. Originally from North Carolina, Ric discovered his passion for pianos and music early in life. This led him to a career in piano sales and marketing, including significant roles with Baldwin Piano and his own store, PianoSD.com, in San Diego. His commitment to the piano community is evident through his active participation in various industry forums and his
Fri, October 11, 2024
Piano Pro Turned Viral Virtuoso w/ Loren DiGiorgi
In this episode of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we had the pleasure of hosting the incredibly talented pianist, humorist, and composer Loren DiGiorgi. Loren's journey began at a very young age, and he has immersed himself in the world of classical music, creating and producing hundreds of songs in various styles. His unique talent for entertaining friends with musical antics, such as playing songs in reverse or blending melodies, has turned into a social media phenomenon with hundreds of thousands of followers on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Loren has also spent decades perfecting the craft of piano tuning, making him a seasoned professional in the field and a perfect guest for our show. He combines his musical abilities with technical knowledge, offering a unique perspective on tuning and maintaining pianos. Our conversation delved deep into the world of piano tuning, exploring how Lorenβs mechanical mastery meets his musical talent. We discussed the intricacies of tuning temperaments, the artistry behind it, and the joy he finds in both performing and technical work. Lorenβs creativity shines through his innovative mashups and reimaginings of classical pieces in different styles, such as lounge or blues. He described how he deliberately seeks out melodies to blend and enjoys the spontaneity of creating these unique pieces. We discuss the challenges and joys of piano tuning, the intricacies of the work, and the importance of understanding the mechanics of the instrument. Loren emphasizes his passion for performing and his aspirations to continue growing his social media presence, compose music for movies or shows, and potentially perform live shows across the United States. The episode concludes with Loren demonstrating his improvisational skills by reimagining a Mozart piece in lounge and blues styles, showcasing his talent and inspiring us all to explore similar creative endeavors. This one was an insightful look into Loren DiGiorgi's multifaceted career, his creative process, and his plans for the futureβan engaging listen for music enthusiasts and piano technicians alike. As we concluded todayβs show, Loren encouraged us to find joy in every moment of creative discovery and to rekindle our own passion for musicβwhether by playing or simply enjoying others' creations. Connect with Loren across all major social platforms under Loren DiGiorgi to join his symphony online. About Loren DiGiorgi: Loren DiGiorgi is a pianist, humorist, and composer. His journey as a classically-trained pianist began with private lessons at five. Since then, Loren has immersed himself in the world of music, creating, recording, and producing hundreds of songs across various styles. During his formative years and throughout high school, Loren delighted friends and audiences with his musical antics. These included playing songs in reverse, sea
Fri, October 04, 2024
Classical Guitar Iconoclast w/ Jonathan Taylor
In Episode 198 of the "Piano Tech Radio Hour," we welcome Jonathan Taylor, a renowned classical guitarist whose career spans the globe. His innovative transcriptions and digital recordings have significantly impacted the classical guitar repertoire, making him a prominent figure in the music world. Taylor's musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, a silent film organist. He shares how his early passion for music led him to the guitar and how his dedication and rigorous practice routines helped him master the instrument. The discussion delves into the importance of eliminating tension in guitar playing, emphasizing mental focus and the awareness of muscle use. Taylor explains how true mastery involves understanding and releasing tension rather than applying it. His insights into sound production provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between mind, body, and instrument. The conversation also covers his approach to music composition and orchestration for the classical guitar, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the instrument's tuning. His innovative transcriptions of various music genres demonstrate his creative and technical skills. Throughout the episode, we hear fascinating stories from Johnathanβs global tours, including experiences in India, the Amazon, and the Caribbean. These travels have profoundly influenced Taylor's music and provided him with rich cultural insights. An introduction to his app, developed in collaboration with Warner Records and Hit Lab, reveals a comprehensive resource featuring music, lessons, and videos, offering both free and premium content for users. It's an excellent tool for anyone interested in his work and the art of classical guitar. The episode concludes with a live performance, showcasing the techniques and philosophies discussed during the conversation. Itβs a lively discussion about the challenges and rewards of transcribing music for the guitar, offering valuable insights for musicians and music enthusiasts alike. Join us for an in-depth look at the life and music of a classical guitar master, and gain a deeper appreciation for this intricate art form! About Jonathan Taylor: Jonathan Taylor is a classical guitarist who has represented the United States as an American Cultural Specialist in South America and the Caribbean sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, and has toured throughout Europe, North and South America and Asia. He is known for his virtuosity and unique transcriptions and has significantly contributed to increasing the available repertoire for the classical guitar. During his formative years in the 1970s and 80s, Taylor studied music at Chapman University, took masterclasses under the great Christopher Parkening, and studied privately for years at the home of the virtuoso Pepe Romero and under Frederick Noad, best known for his PBS series and as the author and compo
Wed, October 02, 2024
Remote Andean Chickering Restoration w/ Jonathan Cleghorn
In Episode 77 of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we continue our deep dive into the art of piano restoration in remote environments, focusing once again on the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. This episode features an in-depth conversation with piano technician Jonathan Cleghorn, who shares the next chapter of his journey restoring an antique Chickering piano at a Baptist seminary in Peru. Jonathan revisits his ambitious project, revealing the technical complexities and cultural insights gained from working in such a challenging setting. He discusses the unique brown action mechanism of the Chickering piano, a rare design that required specialized parts and techniques to restore. Jonathanβs perseverance in the face of logistical hurdlesβfrom navigating airport challenges to using car jacks and sawmill boards to stabilize the pianoβprovides a compelling narrative of innovation and dedication. As the conversation unfolds, Jonathan shares stories of his travels across Peru, including the early morning arrival at Lima Airport and the long bus ride through mountainous terrain to reach the seminary housing a defunct Chickering. These experiences highlight the practical and personal challenges of working in remote areas, where resources are limited and creativity is essential. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the restoration process, including the meticulous adjustments needed to achieve functional regulation, the use of modern adhesives for soundboard repairs, and the careful selection of materials to ensure the piano's playability. Jonathanβs story is not just about technical skill; itβs also a testament to the power of passion and resilience in overcoming obstacles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in piano restoration, historical preservation, or the unique challenges of working in diverse cultural contexts. Whether you're a seasoned technician or a music enthusiast, Jonathanβs journey offers inspiration and practical wisdom that resonates across the field of piano technology. Tune in to Episode 77 for a continuation of this extraordinary adventure, filled with technical expertise, cultural exploration, and a deep appreciation for the craft of piano restoration. About Jonathan Cleghorn: Jonathan Cleghorn is a skilled piano technician with a strong background in music, holding a bachelorβs degree in Church Music and a masterβs in Music Education. He began his career tuning pianos while attending graduate school and has since become a full-time technician, overcoming the challenges of starting his own business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Known for his expertise in restoring antique pianos, Jonathanβs work includes the notable restoration of a Chickering piano in the remote Peruvian Andes. This project highlighted his ability to blend modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship, all while navigating the unique challenges o
Mon, September 30, 2024
Piano Restoration in Remote Locales w/ Johnathan Cleghorn
In Episode 76 of Piano Tech Radio Hour, we engage in a dynamic group discussion featuring some fine technicians in the PTRH community, including Jonathan Cleghorn as our featured guest. Additionally, hear insightful contributions from other astute technicians like Jon Ross, Phil Bondi, Robert Wilson, Nancy Salmon, and Diane Hofstetter. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and rewards of piano restoration in remote and diverse environments, with a special focus on the Peruvian Andes. The conversation kicks off with Jonathan Cleghorn sharing his experiences of restoring an antique Chickering piano in the isolated village of Urubamba, Peru. His insights set the stage for a broader discussion on the logistical and environmental challenges that piano technicians face when working in remote locations with limited resources. Each technician contributes their own unique perspective, reflecting on how different climates and cultural contexts impact the maintenance and restoration of pianos. From Jon Rossβs observations on tuning stability in varying humidity levels to Phil Bondiβs experiences with rare instruments in challenging environments, the group covers a wide range of topics that resonate with both seasoned professionals and those new to the craft. Nancy Salmon and Diane Hofstetter bring their expertise to the conversation by discussing the creative solutions and innovative techniques theyβve developed in their own work, highlighting the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the field. Robert Wilson adds his voice to the mix, emphasizing the deep connections formed through music and the shared challenges faced by technicians around the world. The episode also features personal anecdotes from each technician, including memorable encounters with local instruments and the vibrant musical ecosystems found in places like Lima, Peru. These stories underscore the universal language of music and the deep satisfaction that comes from preserving and enhancing the sound of pianos across diverse settings. As the discussion unfolds, the group reflects on the broader implications of their experiences, emphasizing the importance of resilience, passion, and creativity in the field of piano technology. The episode concludes with a collective reflection on the lessons learned from their adventures, offering valuable insights for both seasoned professionals and those new to the craft. About Jonathan Cleghorn: Jonathan Cleghorn is an experienced piano technician with a passion for restoring antique instruments. Known for his adventurous spirit, Jonathan recently undertook the ambitious project of reviving a Chickering piano in the remote village of Urubamba, Peru. His work exemplifies the dedication and creativity required to bring pianos back to life in challenging environments. Special thanks to Jon Ross , Phil Bondi , Robert Wils
Thu, August 29, 2024
Latin Jazz, David Byrne, Emmy Nom and More w/ Steve Sandberg & Hannah Reimann
In Episode 197 of PTRH, we feature Steve Sandberg, an acclaimed pianist and composer known for his innovative approach to music and piano technology. The episode also includes updates from Hannah Reimann on the Fourth Annual International Stretto Piano Festival. Hannah begins with exciting news about the festival, highlighting the diverse lineup of live concerts and events scheduled for June 2024. She emphasizes the grand event on June 4th, set in a prestigious 760-seat hall, which promises to be a remarkable experience for attendees. Steve Sandberg then shares his captivating musical journey, detailing his discovery of the Stretto piano and its impact on his work. He recounts his childhood rituals with the piano, his transition to improvisation, and his exploration of Latin music. Sandberg offers unique insights into the differences between Brazilian and Salsa music, showcasing his expertise through captivating compositions. The discussion delves into Steve Sandberg's perseverance and the significance of discovering one's unique musical path. Sandberg shares anecdotes that offer a deep understanding of the dedication and artistry required in music-making. He talks about his experiences with various musical genres and his innovative methods of integrating them into his work. Sandberg also discusses his techniques for achieving musical mastery, emphasizing the importance of understanding and releasing tension in playing. His insights into sound production and the relationship between mind, body, and instrument provide valuable lessons for musicians. Throughout the conversation, Sandberg reflects on the perseverance needed to succeed as a musician, highlighting the importance of finding one's distinct path. His anecdotes shed light on the art of music-making and the dedication it demands. The episode concludes with Sandberg's reflections on his career and the techniques that have shaped his musical journey. His stories and insights offer valuable lessons for musicians and music enthusiasts alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about piano and composition. About Steve Sandberg & Hannah Reimann: Steve Sandberg is an Emmy-nominated composer and pianist celebrated for his innovative fusion of classical, jazz, and world music. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Steve has contributed to numerous acclaimed projects, including film scores, television shows, and live performances. His work is renowned for pushing the boundaries of musical expression, earning him a reputation as a versatile and visionary artist. Steveβs musical journey began with classical studies at Yale, which paved the way for an eclectic career in the vibrant worlds of salsa and Brazilian music in New York City. He has toured internationally with David Byrne, bringing Latin rhythms to new audiences, and has conducted on Broadway, showcasing his diver
Fri, June 07, 2024
Latin Classical Evangelism w/ Kristhyan Benitez
In this podcast episode, we are joined by the talented Kristhyan Benitez, a Venezuelan classical pianist and 2021 Latin Grammy winner for Best Classical Album. He discusses his musical journey that started at age four when he chose the piano over the guitar and fell in love with its sound. Kristhyan has performed on prestigious stages worldwide and is recognized as a Steinway artist. His multicultural background influences his music, incorporating traditional Latin American elements into his classical repertoire. He shares an enchanting performance of "Danza de los ΓÑñigos" by Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona, reflecting the spirt of Carnival. An intriguing part of our conversation revolves around his piano named 'Sinatra,' a historical Stanway from 1917 with a rich legacy previously played by icons like Frank Sinatra and Leonard Bernstein. Kristhyan recounts how he unexpectedly became its owner during the pandemic after it was bequeathed to him by Victor, a generous benefactor whose posthumous will was to grant his piano to a developing artist. Beyond performing, Kristhyan emphasizes teaching and philanthropy as integral parts of his life. He believes in nurturing future generations through education and supports musicians in Venezuela amidst national challenges. For him, impacting lives through music is more fulfilling than seeking fame. The freelance musician lifestyle post-pandemic comes with complexities requiring adaptability and continuous practice akin to athletic training. Collaboration across genres enriches artists' experiences according to Kristhyan who also introduces Benitezβa new project blending acoustic heritage with modern sounds and transcending genre restrictions. Our host and guest share about their mutual philosophical connections to producer Rick Rubin. Rick is a renowned producer who guides artists towards their musical essence rather than chasing popularity or trendsβan approach focused on authenticity over applause that often results in lasting popularity through oblique means. As we wrap up this insightful session that delved into personal stories, creative philosophies, charity work, industry challengesβand even touched upon celestial connectionsβwe invite listeners to explore Kristhyan's work online under Christian Benitez on streaming platforms and @kristhyan on Instagram for updates on his artistic endeavors until we meet again for another melodious exchange. About Kristhyan Benitez: Kristhyan is a classical music pianist who won the Latin Grammy 2021 for "Best Classical Music" album. He focuses not only on playing the more traditional classical canon, but also the music of his home country of Venezuela, including its classical music and its rich, vast and diverse tradition of folk and popular music, as a result of βMESTIZAJEβ people (mixed race: Spanish, Indigenous and African). He has appeared at some of the worldβs most prestigious stages such
Fri, May 31, 2024
Astral Journeys w/ Noah Frere
In this podcast episode, we're introduced to Noah Frere, a unique individual who is at once a piano technician, astrophysicist and astrologer. He began his journey in piano tech at the Randy Potter School of Piano Technology in 2006 and has worked with pianos across New York before moving to Tennessee where he pursued a master's degree in physics. We are blessed to explore some of Noahβs own astrophotography, and he explains how various software tools are used to enhance images of celestial bodies. He discusses the intricacies of capturing different types of astronomical phenomena through long exposures and image stacking techniques. The conversation then dives into the intersection between music theory, astrology, and astronomy. Often, when juxtaposing distinct domains we can find creative inspiration. How about an innovative compositional idea where musical notes or keys correspond with cosmic entities or astrological signs? For the true piano nerds out there we dive into a technical project of Noahβs. Noah describes refurbishing a Steinway piano and aspects of refinishing its case. He demonstrates how to concoct homemade wood filler, work with veneers, and fashion homemade tools to get the job done. We shift between musical and astral themes fluidly, discussing why lunar eclipses give the moon its reddish colorationβthe result of Earth's atmosphere bending sunlight during such events. We get mathematical and understand methods used for estimating distances in space using Noahβs astral photographs. The narrative continues by highlighting unexpected moments captured through telescopic photography like crescent moons alongside comets or witnessing earthshine on the moon. Learn how context influences our perception of size when viewing celestial objects near the horizon. What a wonderful journey into the depths of our universe, with resonances into the realms of music, piano technology, myth and spirituality. Thanks to Noah for captaining a harmonious space ride like no other could! About Noah Frere: Noah's journey into piano technology began at the Randy Potter School of Piano Technology in 2006, sparked by a transformative encounter with Kent Webb's tuning of his Winter spinet in Brooklyn, NY. Since then, Noah has navigated diverse roles, from managing pianos at New Yorkβs Beethoven Pianos to overseeing a fleet of rental pianos at Carroll Music. Noah is currently based in Knoxville, TN, where heβs been researching the relationship between asteroids (S- and V-types) and meteorites via spectral analysis, among other things. Yes, alongside his piano endeavors, Noah has pursued his passion for astronomy, earning a Master's in Physics at the University of Tennessee. Unique among us already as a piano tuning astronomer, Noah has taken the bold leap of reconciling the sometimes oppositional fields of astronomy and astrology. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Subscribe to radi
Wed, May 29, 2024
How to Evaluate a Piano w/ Eathan Janney
In this podcast episode, PTRH host Eathan Janney discusses various aspects of piano evaluations and appraisals, with a focus on templates and procedures. We emphasize the importance of precision and professional training when providing formal assessments but also touch on how informal evaluations can benefit clients. As an example we highlight the recent evaluation of an Estonia Grand Piano, detailing that process which included photographing every aspect of the instrument and rating its components like soundboard, bridges, and pin block. A thorough evaluation procedure notes the condition of important components and offers recommendations for improvement as needed or desired by the client. Itβs important to balance thoroughness with brevity in reports. It's valuable for a report to include pricing options for different service levels from basic touch-ups to full upgrades. Valuations can include assessments based on new replacement value if pristine; reconditioned value after improvements; current as-is value; minimum price points to not sell below; and maximum potential sale-by-owner prices. We advise against making arbitrary judgments without proper expertise but instead suggest gathering opinions from experts to guide valuation decisions. We share anecdotes and examples of how to consult experts after conducting technical inspection and photography oneself. We share a systematized evaluation form that can be used via mobile device, which helps generate detailed client-ready reports while facilitating discussions about potential enhancements for pianos post-tuning sessions. Despite efforts at streamlining processes, sometimes filling out forms is tedious and can be a roadblock. Our colleague in the audience, Carl Lieberman, shares his practice of consulting trusted dealers or conducting online searches when approached by people wishing to sell pianos β often providing reality checks for owners' inflated expectations. For appraisals related to insurance or donations, we recommend seeking professional appraisers due to legal complexities involved. We highlight customer service strategies during appointments such as offering actionable advice on instrument improvement while being transparent about repair timelines and costs. A fully engaged audience adds to the suggestion. Garrett Labor Guide is mentioned as a helpful tool for technicians' time management during repairs. Ultimately, great evaluations will establish trust through honest recommendations. A thoughtful approach to evaluations fosters further business opportunities. About Eathan Janey: Eathan is the founder and creator behind Piano Technicians Masterclasses and Piano Tech Radio Hour. Heβs dedicated to expanding educational opportunities throughout the piano and music industries and beyond. Heβs a Registered Piano Technician, holds a PhD in Neuroscience and is an active entrepreneur having founded a portfolio of hi
Fri, May 24, 2024
Learning Precision in Piano Tuning w/ Mark Cerisano
In this podcast episode, we are joined by Mark Cerisano, a seasoned piano tuner and educator whoβs making significant contributions to the field of piano technology. He is known for creating the Go Ape System for accurate and efficient piano tuning and has shared his expertise globally through publications and teaching at the International Piano Technician School (IPTS). Mark's background includes engineering, teaching music in high school, being a professional musician, authoring four books on piano tuning, online content, and live lectures. The discussion covers Markβs journey from studying jazz at McGill University to becoming an engineer turned musical maestro. We delve into how he combines precision with musicality, the importance of clean unisons whether tuning by ear or using devices, auditory illusions that can deceive even experienced ears, and more about his approach to shaping sound quality. We also explore advanced concepts like ensuring all partials decay uniformly without resurgence to achieve perfect harmony. Mark shares about tools like Oceanaudio, which allow for nuanced listening and analysis of sounds. The conversation touches upon different approaches to tuning pianosβintuitive versus electronicβand emphasizes learning through exploration before choosing oneβs tools. The importance of understanding physics in achieving musical stability is highlighted alongside embracing varied perspectives. Looking ahead at the industry's future demands higher standards of tuning precision due to musicians' discerning ears. This necessitates training technicians capable of delivering such exactitudeβan endeavor that Mark aims to address through IPTS which also focuses on providing employment opportunities post-education. For new technicians or graduates seeking guidance, Mark aims to develop elegant and objective feedback mechanisms, using tools like band pass filters, to provide evidence of technical understanding. Listeners interested in following Mark's work can find free resources on https://internationalpianotechniciansschool.com/ as well as interactive content on his public Facebook group and YouTube channel. About Mark Cerisano: Mark Cerisano has been tuning pianos since 2000 and teaching people how to tune, repair, and regulate pianos since 2005, and most recently through the International Piano Technicians School found at https://IPTS.online . He brings to the job of training technicians his experience as a mechanical engineer, a high school teacher of music, math, and other subjects, his experience as a professional musician, and his experience as a professional piano technician. Since developing his unique tuning system which he calls the Go A.P.E. System for more Accurate, Precise, and Efficient piano tunings, he has been published multiple times in the Piano Technicians Journal, given multiple online classes in
Wed, May 22, 2024
Nuanced Approaches to Piano Restoration w/ Chris Brown
In this podcast episode, we explore the captivating world of piano restoration with a focus on Chris Brownβs recent project involving an 1889 Steinway D. This historic piano underwent significant transformations including new soundboards and modernized parts while retaining its legacy. Chris delves into the technical aspects of regulation, discussing the challenges of integrating contemporary components with historical dimensions. He emphasizes the importance of meticulous measurements and adjustments to accommodate changes in height for optimal playability. The conversation also touches upon balancing a customerβs available investment against preserving original aspects of the instrument. Chris shares how even a prestigious brand like Steinway has evolved over time to meet public and artist demands. Chris shares his preference for using copper weights instead of traditional lead for key weighting. Health effects of handling lead can be significant and irreversible, so copper offers a blend of modern sensibilities with classic care. Furthermore, Chris recounts his experiences as a university technician dealing with neglected pianos and highlights the necessity for technicians to be versatile within budget constraints. He stresses understanding the complexities of a hammerβs behavior as it arcs toward the string and changes throughout a hammerβs usable life. If you enjoy this session, make sure to check out the Chris Brown RPT YouTube channel and Grand Work Tools blog series to dive deeper. About Chris Brown: Chris Brown RPT started work as a piano technician in 1977. A graduate of North Bennet Street School, he has worn many hats in his career: college technician, concert tuner, rebuilder, private customer piano-care provider, teacher. And now, designer, engineer, and manufacturer. In 2005, Chris officially specialized in grand regulation and rebuilding and started work on the tools and protocols that have become the Grandwork System . Good regulations benefit customer, technician, dealer, and manufacturer. With the Grandwork System, Chris has reduced the experience needed to successfully regulate grand pianos. His goals are to help those entering the trade and those hiring them, enhancing work for both beginners and experienced technicians. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Subscribe to radio hour for just $16/mo and get direct access to each weeks private zoom call, as well as all the archival recordings of hundreds of episodes in our member area. Join using by visiting https://bit.ly/joinptrh Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and record
Sat, April 06, 2024
Tuned In - Memoirs of a Piano Man w/ Jim Wilson
Gain insights into Jim's experiences with music icons and the lessons he's learned along the way. Beyond rubbing shoulders with legends, he learned valuable lessons from them about music and life. Explore how musical trends and tech advancements shape piano performance and recording. Jim was at the forefront of groundbreaking midi technology. Understand the importance of nurturing young talent and how it influenced Jim's journey. You wonβt believe how far music can take you. Discover the fascinating connection between piano technology and creative expression. Jim shares captivating encounters with music legends. From singing with Paul McCartney to adventures with Dan Fogelberg, Jim's journey is astounding to tune in to. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Jim Wilson: Jim Wilson's career is nothing short of legendary. From humble beginnings as a piano tech, he went on to serve and collaborate with some of the most iconic names in the music industry. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to groundbreaking insights, Jim's experiences are as enlightening as they are entertaining. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Fri, April 05, 2024
Musical Tales w/ David Amram
Tune in to hear the maestro David Amram sharing unheard stories from his encounters with pianos and pianists across the globe, alongside recent collaborations with other PTRH community members. Explore the inspirations behind his most celebrated piano compositions. This session is a rare opportunity to hear directly from a composer who has not only created an incredible body of work but has lived through some of the most pivotal moments in musical history. Whether you're a lifelong fan, a music scholar, or someone who appreciates the profound beauty of piano music, this podcast promises to be an enriching experience. Donβt miss out on this unforgettable journey through the life and music of David Amram. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Thu, April 04, 2024
Tribute and Insights w/ Donna Weng Friedman
In today's episode, we started with touching tributes to Tanya Ragir and Joe Patrych, honoring their legacies in our community. Additionally, Donna shared about the legacy of Joe Patrych, a cherished member of the New York piano community whose unexpected departure in December deeply affected so many. Donna Weng, moved by Joe's passing, shared heartfelt reflections on his life and contributions. Joe's presence in the Greater New York piano community was profound. He left behind a legacy of excellence in music production and sound engineering. Donna's tribute to Joe set the stage for a session filled with gratitude, remembrance, and celebration of his impactful life. As we transitioned into the session's discussions, Donna shared updates on her ongoing projects and collaborations. She spoke about her efforts to harness the power of music and poetry to address mental health challenges among children and teens. She draws inspiration from the famed "Carnival of the Animals," delivering its spirit in present-day forms. Donna's commitment to using art as a tool for healing and expression was truly inspiring, and we look forward to supporting her upcoming performance. We also got a sneak peek of "Never Fade Away," Donna's film which was showcased at Times Square in honor of AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Heritage Month. The film, depicting her immigrant father's life-changing encounter with music, has garnered acclaim at numerous film festivals worldwide. Additionally, Donna shared about her induction into the Steinway and Sons Teacher Hall of Fame, reflecting on her teaching experience and the significance of this recognition. Donna graciously shared personal reflections on her journey within the piano world, delving into the transformative experiences that have sculpted her identity as both an artist and educator. Through her narrative, she underscored the profound impact of resilience, the strength of community, and the boundless potential of artistic expression to bridge divides and foster profound connections. As the session concluded, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in βQuiet Poemsβ, three solo piano pieces by Donna's friend Kim Sherman, complemented by a visually captivating video by Karl Sonnenberg. Departing from classical norms, it highlights the interplay of sound and silence, prompting reflection on what lies between the notes. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Donna Weng Friedman: Award winning pianist Donna Weng Friedman enjoys a distinguished career as a soloist, chamber musician, educator, curator, producer, filmmaker and app developer. She was inducted into the Steinway & Sons Teacher Hall of Fame on October 5th, 2023, for her "passionate commitment to teaching and inspiring young people in music" - Gavin English, President of Steinway & Sons Americas. Donna wrote, directed and produced the award winning documentary short, <a href="
Wed, April 03, 2024
Wool and Piano Hammer w/ Eathan Janney
In this group discussion, Eathan talks about the annual PTM convention and the release of a lecture by David Stanwood who delivers a lecture about piano touch and tone. Itβs a really interesting lecture and one key takeaway was about wool and its role in the sound of the piano. The properties of wool are really special for the creation of piano hammers and the tone we want to get out of them. The lecture also touches on some important themes like voicing, components and the hammer - strike point, shoulders, the different layers, felt - and how they affect the different sounds you want to get out of the hammer. Another interesting lecture that addresses the importance of wool in pianos is by Alex Kirsten. He talks in great detail about the kind of wool they use and how it is processed, the special requests they give at Steingraber to the hammer makers to create a hammer that would produce the sound they appreciate the most. A subscription to Piano Technicians Masterclasses will give you access to these lectures and more so you can learn about the wool and its importance in sound, tune in now to find out more! Hereβs a little bit about our host: Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmast
Tue, April 02, 2024
Piano Inspiration w/ Isaac Namias
In this episode we have Isaac sharing two pivotal moments in his journey, illustrating his evolution from a musician to a piano technician. One significant moment occurred during college when he embarked on the challenge of rebuilding Fender Rhodes pianos, relying solely on online tutorials. Despite lacking an engineering background, his musical discipline and focus propelled him into the world of keyboard technology. Isaac recounted his challenging yet rewarding experience applying for a position at Steinway. Despite facing a lengthy interview process spanning several months, he eventually secured a role in sales. He highlighted the importance of perseverance and networking, as well as the significant role played by supportive colleagues and friends. Isaac shared profound philosophical insights regarding the symbiotic relationship between piano rebuilding and sales. He stressed the necessity of allocating equal attention and passion to both aspects, highlighting the integral role of selling pianos in sustaining the craft of piano rebuilding. Drawing from his training at Steinway, he discussed essential principles for effective sales practices. He underscored the importance of attention to detail, consistency, meaningful showcases, conciseness, and follow-up in fostering strong client relationships, presentation and perseverance in sales. Isaac emphasized the significance of communication from the perspectives of both piano tuners and technicians visiting clients' homes. He stressed the importance of setting the right tone, being observant, and providing valuable recommendations to clients, thereby building trust and enhancing the overall client experience. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Isaac Namias: After graduating from Indiana University, where he studied Jazz Pedagogy at the Jacob School of Music under the late iconic David Baker, Isaac moved to New York to pursue his passion: playing and studying piano in the mecca of music. Soon after, he began apprenticing with master craftsman Brian Whiton at Big Wrench Piano Care. Isaac worked closely with him and other technicians to learn how to rebuild and tune pianos. He then had the opportunity to work for the legendary Steinway & Sons company, where he learned more about piano rebuilding from a tradition of multigenerational artisans, and did piano sales and consulting. As a pianist, piano teacher, and piano tuner, Isaac wanted to create an outlet in Brooklyn for those who are seeking risk-free, reliable, and beautiful pianos. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without l
Wed, March 27, 2024
Unconventional Piano Tuning Tricks w/ Alan Eder
Make sure to get in on our latest masterclass covering Action Geometry with Dean Reyburn. Join us Thursday April 18 at 3pm Pacific or 6pm Eastern Time. Visit https://bit.ly/pianoaction to register! In todayβs session, we have you join us for the PTM Annual Convention session with Alan Eder, a full-time piano tech for the California Institute of Arts for 38 years. He gives a lecture on the tools and methods to use that are outside the mainstream. This is not a regulation-focused lecture. Have you ever successfully taken a grand action out of a piano without breaking the hammer string? Well, Alan is about to teach us just that. To not do more harm than there already is, we start by grabbing key frame end pins. The inadvertent depression of the keys causes the hammers to come up and break. You can also try to grab the action brackets. Before you do any action, make sure the hammers are down. If it is not an action that you have worked on before, then retrofit the action bracket screws. Then, move on to scruffing the hammer tails. This allows you to eliminate the trauma to the centerpiece while doing this. All these great tips and more in this lecture with Alan Eder. Tune in to find out! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Alan Eder: Registered Piano Technician Alan Eder has been the full-time piano tech for the Herb Alpert School of Music at the California Institute of the Arts for 38 years. He has trained with such luminaries of our field as Keith Hardesty and Richard Davenport, RPT, and with Yamaha and Steinway. In turn, Alan has trained many accomplished piano technicians enjoying successful careers as field technicians and working for music schools, piano dealers, and manufacturers. Under the auspices of the Piano Technicians Guild, Alan has taught numerous classes at chapter meetings and regional and national conventions, alone and in collaboration with others. Alan has been a featured guest on Piano Tech Radio Hour, along with pianist Danny Holt, and has been involved in the production of several piano-centric videos, including "Non-Traditional Piano Use," "American Grand" (Amazon Prime), "A Glimpse Into Montal's Paris" (Youtube) and "Piano Rap" (Youtube). ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the fin
Wed, March 20, 2024
Regulations and Appraisals w/ Sally Phillips and Leo Holder
In this episode, we have Sally Phillips and Leo Holder. Sally talks about the amount of regulation a new piano needs. All the work that needs to be done to a piano before delivery will save you money in after-market servicing and enable you to get the trust of a dealer. Sally walks us through her checklist of things we need to do to get the after-delivery servicing costs down. The same works for newly rebuilt pianos as well. Sally says βNew pianos are kind of an enigmaβ, and the first thing you need to do is check if the piano has been damaged in moving, then move the action brackets and get to the regulating. Start with listening to the tuning and then level the strings and bring them up to 440. Sally talks through all the minute details that can help you take your game to the next level by giving it that extra attention to detail. Up next, we have Leo who used to be batchmates with Sally in North Bennet, and talks about putting on an appraiser tax as a technician, its risks, things to do, and those to avoid. Leo talks about the principles and rules of appraisals codified by the Appraisal Board. He shares a wealth of information about appraisal and its necessary prerequisites. Tune into this lecture to hear from Sally and Leo about the things that are less spoken about in the piano industry. Hereβs a little bit about our guests : Sally Phillips: Over the past 40 years, Sally Phillips has worked in virtually every aspect of the piano industry: service, retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. She has tuned and prepared pianos for recordings and concerts in such venues as Town Hall in NYC, Alice Tully Hall, the Kennedy Center, and for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Concert Orchestra, and the Vienna Philharmonic. She's a 1976 graduate of North Bennet Street School. She has published articles for Piano Buyer, The American Organist, and the PTG Journal. Sally lives in Columbus, GA dealing in Steinway and other fine pianos as Piano Perfect, LLC. Leo Holder: Leo studied piano at a music conservatory in Europe. He was thoroughly trained in piano technology at Boston's North Bennett Street Industrial School under Bill Garlick and David Betts. He's been certified as an expert piano technician by the Baldwin Piano Company. He is a Resident Technician at the Third Street Music School (America's oldest) where he also taught a course in Piano Maintenance to musicians. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, singl
Fri, March 15, 2024
Convention Teaser w/ Chris Brown
In todayβs session, we give you a teaser of all that has been happening with the PTM Annual Convention by showing you sections of our most interesting sessions to give you a flavor of all that has been brewing and all that is to come. Starting with William Manroe who showed us how to turn a 100-year-old piano into a work of art, in a step-by-step detail-oriented fashion. William starts by taking a picture for posterity and then begins his process by taking the pieces apart. Next, we have Chris Brown whose class is on Hammer Hanging. He tells us about the quandaries of replacing a hammer because of the trustworthy information embedded in them. Chris tells us all about its theory and practical application. Further, we have Randy Potter, an icon of the industry who gives a lecture on tuning techniques. Tune into this lecture to sample the convention and get some rich insights about a host of topics from refurbishing old pianos to dealing with hammers. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Chris Brown: Chris Brown is a Registered Piano Technician of Grandwork Tools. He started his career as a piano technician in 1977. He is one of the leading piano technicians who master various skills like concert tuning, rebuilding, and teaching. He is also a college technician and private customer piano-care provider along with being a designer, engineer, and manufacturer. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, March 13, 2024
Secrets of the Cybertuner w/ The PTRH Community
In todayβs episode, Eathan talks about the PTM Convention and some of the instructors like Carl Lieberman give us a preview of their lecture at the convention. Carlβs lecture will be on cyber tuner, its AI feature, and why we should all care about it. Cybertuner also makes Pure12th tuning and Carl shares his take on it. βPureβ might sometimes seem unachievable but Carl suggests that the 12th should be close to pure to preserve other intervals. In this episode, we also take on questions from the participants about tuning orally or with a device. Eathan says βbothβ, and talks about the different tuning software and the process of creating a bespoke service. He also gives tips on how to crack the tuning exam by using the cyber tuner exam mode which gives you an objective third-party reference. Tune into this lecture to learn about the different tips and tricks from Eathan and Carl about the cyber tuner, tuning exam, and how to train your brain and body to recognize sound change. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Fri, March 01, 2024
Musical World w/ Claudio Constantini
In this episode, we had the privilege of hosting a pre-recorded session featuring the remarkable Claudio Constantini, a globally renowned multi-instrumentalist celebrated for his extraordinary talents as both a pianist and a bandoneonist. Claudio shared his fascinating journey from his upbringing in Peru, surrounded by a family deeply rooted in music, to discovering his passion for piano during his teenage years. His transition to becoming a bandoneonist, sparked by serendipity while living in Rome, added another layer to his magical musical journey. He also discussed his unexpected foray into mastering the bandoneon. He revealed insights into his mentors and learning experiences along the way. He emphasized the importance of learning through immersion and collaboration, drawing from his experiences playing with seasoned musicians and absorbing their techniques. Itβs a method he found invaluable in honing his skills on both piano and bandoneon. Providing a fascinating insight into his beloved instrument, Claudio shared about the mechanics and capabilities of the bandoneon. He demonstrated its unique sound and versatility, highlighting its ability to create expressive melodies not possible on the piano. Claudio shared stories from his extensive touring career spanning over 30 countries. He discussed his motivations for reaching diverse audiences and shared some exciting details about his ongoing projects aimed at expanding his musical reach. With a keen eye on the future, Claudio stressed the importance of embracing technology in the ever-changing music industry. He shared his experiences leveraging social media platforms like Instagram to connect with millions of followers and engage with fans worldwide. Offering candid advice, Claudio discussed the evolving landscape of music and the diverse paths available to aspiring musicians. He encouraged openness to new technologies and practices. At the same time, he underscored the distinction between pursuing music as a hobby and a profession. It was an inspiring session, and his wisdom provided plenty of food for thought. Claudio's reflections on creativity, perseverance, and the pursuit of artistic excellence left a lasting impression on all of us. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Claudio Constantini: Renowned worldwide as a Concert Pianist, Bandoneonist, and Composer, Claudio Constantini's journey through music has been nothing short of extraordinary. Having graced stages in over 30 countries, his performances have garnered him accolades aplenty, including the prestigious Global Music Award in 2021 and a Latin Grammy nomination in 2019. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to
Wed, February 28, 2024
Insights w/ The PTRH Community
In todayβs episode, Eathan shares his experience of attending the memorial service of the late David Anderson, who used to be a co-host on this show, an amazing musician and an even better human being. Community members join in the conversion and each share a few thoughts about David, his unmatched energy, and incredible acumen as a piano tech. We touch upon lesser-known facets of Davidβs rich life, exploring his legacy as a rock musician as well as a passionate writer. In addition to writing song lyrics, David penned an archive of incredible love notes and poems to his soulmate, Tanya Ragir. Carl Liberman says, βWe should all be so lucky to be remembered like him,β and that captures the essence of the conversation. Further along in the episode, Eathan shares his insights from a previous radio hour featuring guitar maker Danny Koentopp. Danny shared three main topics relevant to all sorts of instrument builders and technicians: hand tools, health issues developed by people who work with their hands and bodies, and import-export issues. One thing that Danny stresses is the CAD software that he learned in school and he talks about the beauty in the math behind the musical instruments: the lines, forms, shapes, and resonances. Tune into this conversation to hear the community talk fondly about the late David Anderson and also learn about lesser-known yet fascinating things from Danny. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Mon, February 26, 2024
Exploring the Potential of Narrow Key Pianos w/ Hannah Reimann & Fanny Steingraeber
Get ready for a fun PTRH session this Saturday as we bring you an exclusive conversation with two distinguished figures in the world of pianos: Hannah Reimann from Stretto Pianos and Fanny Steingraeber from Steingraeber & Sohne, the renowned high-end piano manufacturer in Bayreuth, Germany. This special pre-recorded session has been meticulously curated to accommodate busy international schedules, ensuring you don't miss out on this rare opportunity. Join us as Fanny Steingraeber discusses the marvelous developments and innovations that have defined Steingraeber pianos for generations. In this session, Fanny Steingraeber will delve into the intricate craftsmanship behind Steingraeber pianos, sharing insights into their groundbreaking advancements, including their pioneering work with narrow keys and other revolutionary innovations. It's a unique chance to gain firsthand knowledge from one of the most esteemed names in piano manufacturing. Hereβs a little bit about our guests: Hannah Reimann: A US-based concert pianist renowned for her expressive performances across various genres from classical to contemporary music. As a dedicated educator, Hannah also imparts knowledge to aspiring musicians while exploring new dimensions of sound through innovative musical instruments. Her commitment extends beyond traditional boundaries as she collaborates with meditation apps to integrate soothing piano melodies into relaxation practices. Fanny Steingraeber: Hailing from Bayreuth, Germany's esteemed Steingraeber family known for their craftsmanship in piano manufacturing; Fanny represents innovation rooted in tradition. With expertise spanning technical design improvements to customer engagement strategies within the niche market of custom-made pianos, she plays a pivotal role in introducing ground-breaking concepts such as narrow keyboards tailored specifically towards individual ergonomic needs without compromising on tonal quality or performance standards. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redir
Wed, February 21, 2024
Pitch Perfect Pair w/ Donna Byrd & Susan Kline
Donna Byrd and Susan Kline, two guests with the most insider information make it to todayβs episode. Donna, a North Bennet Street School student and a consistent guest on Pinao Tech Radio Hour, has some fascinating stories to share. Alongside her is Suzan, a George Brown College of Toronto graduate, and a long-term piano technician. Donna shares her journey to being a piano tuner, her experiences in a male-dominated profession, and some tales of her residency. Building on this conversation, Susan talks about what it means to pursue something that βfeels rightβ, how to balance a family while doing that, and how her path intertwined with Donna. Donna and Susan have been working together for a long time and they chronicle their experiences of being a dynamic duo. Donna speaks highly of Susan in her memoir and their conversation takes us back in time. Further in the episode, we see a series of antique and ornate piano pictures shared by Donna, and the story behind each of them is filled with insights about piano tuning that you should not miss! ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Tue, February 20, 2024
Tuning In w/ The PTRH Community
Dive into the harmonious echoes of our PTRH community in this episode, where the vibrant voices of participants weave together a tapestry of insights and shared experiences. From the lively discussions on piano tuning to navigating the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, our community came together for an enriching session that embraced the diversity of thoughts and perspectives. What a dedicated community! In this episode, we recognize Calvin from Malaysia, a dedicated member who shares his passion for pianos with us in the stillness of the night. Join us as we uncover the stories and anecdotes that bridge geographical boundaries, highlighting the universal language of music that unites our global community. The episode spotlights the talents and contributions of Wayne Ferguson, Susan Kline, Stephen Beuker, and Larry Lobel, whose voices add depth and richness to our conversations. Their thoughts on piano technology and various aspects of the craft illuminate the diversity within our community, making each interaction a unique and enriching experience. Specifically, Larry Lobel's innovative ideas ignite the spark of creativity re-evoking host, Eathan's concept of a piano tech lab in a place like NYC. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Mon, February 19, 2024
Piano Horizons w/ Oliver Esmonde-White
This PTRH session features the remarkable Oliver Esmonde-White with guest appearances by the insightful Wayne Ferguson. They're two of Canada's finest piano pros. The episode unfolds with updates on Oliver's groundbreaking projectβa revolutionary upright piano action. We learn about his versatile hammer rail/action rail development with a one-size-fits-all solution, poised to revolutionize the piano industry. It's all made possible through 3D-printed rapid prototyping. We gain deep insights into innovation challenges as Oliver passionately emphasizes the need for collaboration and government support in research and development. Wayne Ferguson adds his reflections on the serendipitous nature of discoveries in the field, seamlessly connecting to the four stages of learning discussed in more detail in a previous session. The episode explores the incipient resurgence of the piano, its educational value, and its role in brain development for children, advocating for its inclusion in school curriculums. Oliver's perspective expands into a profound understanding of the transformative impact of music on the brain. We wrap up the session by highlighting the deep understanding gained from cutting-edge innovations, the serendipity of discovery, and the societal impact of music education. The episode serves as a gateway to fostering further discussion and collaboration within the piano technicians' community. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Oliver Esmonde-White: With over five decades dedicated to perfecting the art of piano technology, Oliver stands as a true maestro in the field. As the last Canadian to study at the prestigious Baldwin factory and the first North American attendee of the Yamaha Piano Technical Academy in 1986, his journey is legendary. Having played a pivotal role as a rebuilder and concert technician, Oliver's fingerprints can be found on thousands of recordings, audio productions, and televised performances. His tireless commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence has earned his shop the accolade of the most modern in Canada, according to Yamaha Canada. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technici
Sun, February 11, 2024
Networking as Piano Technicians w/ Carl Lieberman
In todayβs session, we join Carl Lieberman in person and talk about the importance of networking to thrive in the piano industry. Carl talks about how he has formed some serendipitous connections over time and where they stand now. Networking can seem sleazy to a lot of people because you are doing it to get something out of someone but in this episode, Carl shares stories of how he has organically built connections with people over time and how that keeps him young at heart. Through one of these opportunities, Carl has been able to build a virtual museum for Piano Technicians - by tapping into a lot of networks that he has built over time. Carl also captures his experience of being a piano tuner in LA and some unconventional tips to succeed on the job. He says βYou do not have to do the best possible job every time youβre doing a tuning. I think of stability and piano playability over time, when the humidity changes, the pitch will change and you have to correct it all over again. Instead, fine-tune for each performance. Think about long-term stabilityβ. Tune into this session to hear him talk about this and share many other controversial opinions. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Carl Lieberman: Carl has been a piano technician in Los Angeles for 49 years. I have worked with CyberTuner's creator, Dean Reyburn for the last 25 years and am now CyberTuner's Imagineer. I am a field service piano technician working at a Performing Arts Center, Recording Studios and private homes. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podc
Wed, January 31, 2024
Steinway Society of Puerto Rico w/ Jan DβEsopo
In this session, we bring you exclusive access to an interview with Jan DβEsopo, an artist and impresario who founded the Steinway Society of Puerto Rico which offers a forum for local musicians and funds local talents. The Society is a fascinating place that Eathan discovers in Puerto Rico and he sits down for a chat with Jan to discuss her journey as an artist and how she has built the place. The Steinway Society is a piano bar and so much more with six complex and interconnected buildings that Jan has collected and curated over time over 47 years. It houses 6 pianos including the Steinway D, because music is integral to a place for Jan. Since then Jan has opened the place up for pianists to learn and play. The first piano she acquired was a gift from her father, and in this interview, she walks us through the fascinating story of how she has built her collection over time. She says βOpen piano leads to another and before you know it you have the most wonderful musicians come inβ. Jan tells us how she built one of the most active Steinway societies in the world and how it developed over time. She also stresses the importance of attracting the right crowd and letting things be organically developed. Tune into this conversation for a candid and interesting account of Janβs journey. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pianotechmasterclass FB - https://www.facebook.com/pianotechmasterclass Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1jiIJEA9pToGft6fdfZaxu
Wed, January 24, 2024
Guitar Restoration and Analogues to Piano Tuning w/ Danny Koentopp
Todayβs guest is a bit more unusual than what we do here at PTRH which makes it special and fun - Danny studies product design at Columbia College where he focuses on guitars. He joined the restoration team and worked on restoring museum-quality pieces from the 17th century. He has been acquainted with a lot of power tools but prefers working with his hands which is interesting for us piano makers! Danny says βWhile going to school for design work, I did learn a lot about technology and what I can do with a computer - so now Iβm in the perfect world of combining the twoβ. He designs tools through the use of computers and in this session, he talks about his processes and techniques of going about toolmaking. As piano technicians, we are constantly working with our hands and shifting between tools - Dannyβs approach is this: βI try to work with my hands. Each time I do it, I try to do it fasterβ - which is relevant to our profession of piano tuning, and we flesh out the parallels. The guitar has been mass-produced but now players are getting more specific about how they want their music to sound - Danny is in the business of tailoring this sound. As opposed to this, for piano technicians, we are starting from specifics and technical details which become the basis of our practice. In this episode, we discuss the similarities and differences between working on the piano and the guitar. For every element of guitar restoration, Eathan provides an analog for the piano. If you would like to learn more about Piano Tuning from a completely refreshing lens while also getting a sense of how it contrasts with other string instruments, this is the episode for you. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Danny Koentopp: Danny started taking guitar lessons at age seven and from that point, the guitar became a lifelong passion. With the support of his professors and the college itself, he focused all his work on guitar. While making his seventh guitar, he met violin maker Michael Darnton and joined the restoration team Darnton & Hersh Fine Violins. He has acquired a lot of powerful tools over the years and after studying with Michael he has found it faster to work by hand. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers
Wed, January 17, 2024
A Non-Dual Jam Sesh w/ The PTRH Community
In this episode, our host, Eathan Janney broadcasts live from the colorful backdrop of Puerto Rico. The episode is a freeform discussion with the community in attendance. We kicked off by highlighting an upcoming virtual piano tech symposium designed for flexible learning and networking opportunities across various industry sectors. Community member Carl Lieberman, a seasoned piano technician, shares his experiences post-pandemic as he returns to work on cruise ships and concert halls. He talks about the challenges and joys of bringing life back to pianos that have been silent during the pandemic's pause in travel and live performances. Dave Skolnik joins us later to discuss how traditional guilds can potentially synergize with modern communication platforms like Piano Tech Radio Hour. We explore organizational dynamics within these contexts through anecdotes and personal insights. Our community is not shy about approaching philosophical musings; this episode is no exception. Eathan demonstrates how seemingly insurmountable paradoxes lead to innovative answers. Using the example of a common visual illusion, we learn the incredible value of embracing contradictory truths. This theme extends into discussions around precision in piano tuningβa metaphor for craftsmanship requiring foresight and careful consideration. In closing, we remember the profound influence of our co-host David Andersen. In addition to participating in PTRH, he left behind a legacy through poetry and music, always encouraging others to appreciate every moment deeply. In closing, we celebrate artistic expression by acknowledging creators like David and his wife, Tanya Ragir while enjoying tracks from David's band, Stung by the Gods. We honor those whose art continues to inspire long after their time. Hereβs a little bit about our contributors: Carl Lieberman: With decades under his belt as a professional piano technician, Carl has seen it allβfrom majestic concert halls to intimate jazz clubs. In post-pandemic and semi-retired life he focuses work on the best of his clients, including cruise ships, recording studios, and more. He meticulously cares for instruments and clients so they can continue to produce mellifluous music. Dave Skolnik: He's an active member of the PTG with years of experience in both traditional practices and embracing new technologies within the world of piano technology. Dave offers unique perspectives on adapting old-world crafts into today's digital landscape. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry mast
Wed, January 10, 2024
Tuning for Professional Pianists w/ Sally Philips
Our special guest for today is Sally Philips of Piano Perfect LLC. Sheβs world-renowned and a well-kept secret of the Piano Industry. In this interactive session, Sally talks about how to navigate some of the peculiar challenges of concert work and preparation, working for professional pianists. She also gives us an update on her professional trajectory and tells us what inspired it. Sally tells us about the time she had tuned four pianos at the same time and tells us what challenges to expect and how to prepare for them. Her prime tip: tune in the dark. She uncovers the relationship between light and heat that affects the tuning process. She also plays the recordings for some pianos in action after tuning and the importance of tuning in practice rooms. Sally says βStability is the pay-day of tuning if you can make it holdβ. If you would like to learn more about tuning for professional pianists for concert work, tune into this episode and learn through anecdotes of Sallyβs experiences. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Sally Phillips: Over the past 40 years, Sally Phillips has worked in virtually every aspect of the piano industry: service, retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. She has tuned and prepared pianos for recordings and concerts in such venues as Town Hall in NYC, Alice Tully Hall, the Kennedy Center, and for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Concert Orchestra, and the Vienna Philharmonic. She's a 1976 graduate of North Bennet Street School. She has published articles for Piano Buyer, The American Organist, and the PTG Journal. Sally lives in Columbus, GA dealing in Steinway and other fine pianos as Piano Perfect, LLC. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pianotechmasterclass FB - https://www.facebook.com/pianotechmasterclass Spotify -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVFabFEya0NxWmtHcUdZYnNyTEIzRGpEdUhXUXxBQ3Jtc0tsX2VMeXRWek84amlJY3dYUXpxZlZCS21vN2FKc3RwSFFmVm9WeE5UNXJacUw3bS1rRHhPNWdkZG9zWDZnYlNUZFVQd3VrWW53bUoxRHJmZHdEdnNobktKblZ2TVBDTHNiSEZxbEljX1JraWVDNVdFMA&q=https%3A%2F%2F
Thu, January 04, 2024
The Math of Pianos w/ Chris Brown
Christopher Brown joins us today, and he has mastered various skills like concert tuning, rebuilding, and teaching. Heβs an engineer, piano designer, and producer. Chris believes that all piano technicians are somewhat gifted at math, and has been able to use high school algebra and geometry to create a model for the workings of a grand action. This helps him better understand what happens when you change the leverage in any of the three levers. In this episode, Chris simplifies the geometry of the grand action and explains how it works. He uncovers his process of calculating the ratios, taking measurements, and building models to understand the build and working of pianos. He gives us interesting tips about the inner engineering of the pianos. If you want to learn how to use math to understand pianos intuitively, this is the lecture for you. Tune in to hear Chris talk about how to solve problems with the knowledge of the internal workings of the pianos. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Chris Brown: Chris Brown is a Registered Piano Technician of Grandwork Tools. He started his career as a piano technician in 1977. He is one of the leading piano technicians who master various skills like concert tuning, rebuilding, and teaching. He is also a college technician and private customer piano-care provider along with being a designer, engineer, and manufacturer. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, December 27, 2023
Music of Chano Dominguez w/ Chano Dominguez
In this episode, the great piano player, Chano Dominguez - the great piano player joins us and tells us all about his upcoming shows, his experience playing on stage, and why he does not like traveling for concerts. Chano talks about the piano he has been playing most, the technicalities of it, and the tuning process it has undergone. As a player, he tells us about the experience of playing on different kinds of tuned pianos and what he enjoys most. Chano shares his knowledge about the history of music and the evolution of its different forms like Jazz. Tune into this episode for a delightful conversation with Chano to learn about the piano from the playerβs perspective and to hear him perform melodiously on it. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Chano Dominguez : Chano has three Grammy nominations and over 40 years of stage performance experience. As a native of Spain, his works are an ingenious and unique combination of jazz and flamenco music that never ceases to leave their mark on the minds of the audience. Along with his recording and performing career, he has also shared his expertise through seminars and masterclasses and taught at Juilliard, the Taller de MΓΊsica in Barcelona, and other institutions. Early in his career, he formed a Latin rock band, CAI. They released three albums for CBS. However, the band parted ways in 1981, and Chano took on a solo career. Since then, Chano has earned several accolades for his inexplicable works. His album Flamenco Sketches was highly critically acclaimed and in this album, he reinterpreted all five songs from Miles Davisβ βKind of Blue,β and more. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - <a href="https://www.f
Wed, December 20, 2023
Tools for Piano Success w/ Steve Brady
In todayβs episode, Steve Brady, the most highly awarded piano technician in the Pacific North West a member of the PTG Hall of Fame. He knows what it takes to make the piano sound like the instrument of dreams and heβs here today to share that secret sauce with us. In this episode, Steve talks us through some common tools - but, chances are that you have not used them. Do you pre-coil the wire before putting it on the tuning pin? Great, but now you need to carry a dummy tuning pin and a tuning pin crank. Instead, you can use a brass rod cut to length with rounded edges and drill a hole through it. Now you have a multi-purpose tool that replaces the pre-coiled wire and the tuning pin. You can tune pins, level keys and Was that tip helpful? This is just one of the many tools that Steve talks about in this episode. Tune in to learn more about this and other such tools to improve your tuning game! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Steve Brady: Heβs an award-winning Piano Technician and a respected PTG veteran. Along with securing a place in the PTG Hall of Fame, he was awarded the PTGβs βGolden Hammer Award,β one of the professionβs highest honors, for his contributions to the piano industry. He is the author of Under the Lid: The Art & Craft of the Concert Piano Technician. He resides in Seattle, Washington. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, December 13, 2023
History of Piano Building w/ Del Fandrich
In todayβs episode, Del Fandrich, a consultant for various piano manufacturers across the world, uses the first principle of thinning to aid his designing process. Del talks about hybrid scales to help the short piano scales and their various applications. He delves into string lengths, tensile strength, and sounds. Del is also working on compiling the book βPiano Tone Rebuildingβ from three generations ago and making it readable again. He has added additional chapters in the book to address some of its misinformation. This can help trace the history of the piano building and Del shares some of his insights about that and the journey of the industry at large. Tune into this lecture to hear about the historical and technical journey of the piano industry. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Del Fandrich: Since 1960, Del Fandrich has evolved from a basic service technician to an independent rebuilder, manufacturer, and design consultant. He served as the Director of R&D with Baldwin and has consulted with brands like Charles Walter and Young Chang. Most recently he has been working with John Martin of Wertheim Piano to develop a totally new vertical piano. He has authored numerous papers on topics ranging from basic piano technology to advanced concepts in design and manufacturing. He continues to lecture globally as one of the most forward-thinking minds in the piano industry, maintaining several active research projects in his workshop in Olympia, WA. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, December 06, 2023
Charging More for Business Success w/ Carl Lieberman
In todayβs episode Carl Lieberman, a tremendous business advisor, a piano technician, and a hybrid tuner joins us to share his wealth of knowledge on pianos. Heβs a garden variety piano technician who shares his journey that has seen all ends of this industry. Carlβs mission in this session is to share his tips on how to make more money. He does this by talking about pricing. Carl says that the three most important things in tuning are βstability, stability, and stabilityβ and the two most important words about running a business are βcharge moreβ. It's most likely that you are not charging enough for your business. Carl shares the rationale behind charging more money for your services which is located in the work of the Economist Dan Airelyβs book βPredictably Irrationalβ. If you would like to learn more about the principles and process of charging more go from a $150 piano service to a $300 piano service. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Carl Lieberman: Carl has been a piano technician in Los Angeles for 49 years. I have worked with CyberTuner's creator, Dean Reyburn for the last 25 years and am now CyberTuner's Imagineer. I am a field service piano technician working at a Performing Arts Center, Recording Studios and private homes. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, November 29, 2023
Action Parts and Restoration w/ Wayne Ferguson & Chip Mayer
In todayβs session two exceptional guests, Wayne Ferguson and Cip Mayer join us, who have each been in business for over 40 years. They share their journeys, anecdotes, and insights about restoration. Wayne talks about his actions to keep himself out of trouble within the restoration business. He also shares how he quality controls the action parts, and how that led him to meet our second guest of the show today - Chip Mayer. Chip is the son of Loyed Mayer, and they identified an industry need for quality original dimension action parts to restore grand pianos. Chip talks about his philosophy βRather than trying to reengineer and reinvent the piano, just replace whatβs there to maintain the design excellence of the pianoβ. Wayne and Chip talk about action parts, how to select the right parts, and the process of restoration such that the excellence of the piano is retained. Tune into this lecture to listen more. Hereβs a little bit about our guests: Wayne Ferguson: Master piano tuner technician, Wayne H. Ferguson, has been widely considered to be among the very best in the business, Wayne has studied the art of piano technology and piano setup with passion and diligence. His former and present client list is a veritable whoβs who of the music industry in Canada and beyond. Including Oscar Peterson, Keith Jarrett, Stevie Wonder, David Foster, and Diana Krall, Wayneβs list of satisfied, repeat customers is a testament to his expertise and professionalism. Chip Mayer: ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Pi
Wed, November 22, 2023
The Importance of Saying No w/ Bill Monroe
The owner of A440 Pino Services, and a second-time guest at the PTRH, Bill Manore joins us today and gives us a tour of his shop and talks about his business. He is a one-man show and tells us how he manages the different tasks of the business. βJust say yes and figure it out laterβ has been a mantra that has worked well for him. He also shares his process of how to go about acquiring pianos. He says, βI do not do a lot of active looking because, over time, pianos tend to find youβ. In that same vein, he shares the importance of building client relationships and how that helps you build your business. Most importantly, he shares the importance of saying βnoβ - there will be a lot of great opportunities, but Bill shares insights about how to pick the right pianos that have some sort of reasonable market value. Tune into this lecture to learn all these salient tips from Bill and get an exclusive view of his shop. Here's a little bit about our guest Bill Monroe: Bill, William, Monroe is a Registered Piano Technician and PTG member, specializing in rebuilding grand pianos. After graduating from school at Montana State University in Bozeman in wildlife ecology, his career took a detour in the year 1999 when he decided to tune pianos full-time. He is the owner of A440 Piano Services in Belleville, Wisconsin. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, November 15, 2023
Replacing, Building Sound Boards and Bridge Gapping w/ Ken Eschete
Ken Eschete, is a piano technician who has worked with the conservation of historic pianos and teaches an online course on replacing and building sound boards and bridge gapping. He has discovered some big things from some little tiny things and he joins us at the Radio Hour to share them. The first is consolidation - here Ken talks about resins and the science behind them which is used in key tops and voicing. The second component is using a reverse migration - here Ken walks us through hammers built in the 19th century and the change of their material from leather, to woolwoll and felt. There is a logic to why hammers are hard on the inside and soft on the outside. In the final component of the presentation, Ken talks about epoxy and its viscosity usage. Ken shares extensively about the usage of B72, epoxy technology, and the process of replacing and building soundboards. Tune into this high-value high-value lecture to learn about this and more! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Ken Eschete: A highly experienced piano technician/piano rebuilder with a specialization in concert tuning, structural rebuilding (new soundboards and pin-blocks), and restorative conservation of antique pianos and harpsichords. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, November 08, 2023
Steinway Pianos and Rebuilding w/ Alex Kostakis
On todayβs episode, we have Alex Kostakis join us whose family has been involved in Steinway for many years, and later they started their own rebuilding practice. Alex shares his journey of working on Steinway pianos, the details of the pianos, and the relationship with customers. Alex details what goes into his best restored Steinways - a virgin piano that has not been tampered with by anyone, matches all the specifications when reproducing a pin block, adjusts for the wedges on the keyframe to take away from the height of the strings, and create a slope from the top of the rim to the bottom of the rim. Alex talks about what it means to read the piano in front of you and how to look at the minor things. All of these go miles in setting you apart and building yourself as a successful piano technician. Tune in to listen from him about all things Steinway and rebuilding. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Alex Kostakis: ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, November 01, 2023
Soundboards & Rebuilding w/ Nick Gravagne
Nick Gravagne, who joined us for the PTM 2020 convention is back on Radio Hour to share some of his insights on building sound boards. Nick has made over 470 soundboards on Steinway and he shares his journey of building a pulse to tell soundboards apart. βThe more mass there is on the soundboard, the more sound as there is more impetus,β says Nick and shares how to build a balance between the string and the soundboard. Nick also shares his own evolution of the understanding of this subject matter and connects it to electronic engineering. He answers questions about steam, rebound, hammer strength, and more. Tune into this session to hear from Nick who has a repository of knowledge on not just soundboard and rebuilding, but also about successfully navigating the career of being a piano technician. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Nick Gravagne: Nick combines a formal engineering background with over 40 years of hands-on experience in piano design, manufacturing, and rebuilding. He has authored numerous articles for the piano trade and has been a featured instructor at piano technical seminars all over the U.S. His business currently revolves around rebuilding and manufacturing custom soundboards for the piano rebuilding trade. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Thu, October 26, 2023
Pricing to Success in Piano Tuning w/ David Andersen & Eathan Janney
In this episode, David and Eathan talk about pricing in the piano industry, especially during the pandemic and post-pandemic. Raising prices may seem counter-intuitive, but keeping up with your standard of living may be necessary. One participant adds βNow is the time to raise prices, not just to keep up, but to get ahead of the curveβ. βHistorically we do not charge enough as piano technicians, when I raise prices, I am met with more successβ shares another participant. During this conversation, the participants help unpack the importance of offering a diverse set of services to your clients as there is no good piano that you cannot make better. The path to becoming a high-end piano technician is not just skill, but also building a relationship of trust and having references through word of mouth. In this episode, we further unpack the importance of having a trust-based relationship with your clients and reflections on the PTM 2020 convention. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live s
Wed, October 18, 2023
Embrace Your Fears w/ David Andersen and Eathan Janney
In this episode, David and Eathan unpack what it means to do things that you are afraid of within the piano business. The pair focus on conquering fear as an essential ingredient in professional development. In his typical generous fashion, David gets vulnerable with his peers in the name of inspiring us all. He shares stories of how he has encountered fear time and again during his time in the industry and why itβs made him better. Other members of the community are inspired to share their own stories of overcoming fear within different aspects of their journey - teaching, tuning, certification, you name it! Eathan talks about how there is fear on both sides of the tableβeven the instructors we deeply respect have fear and trepidation sometimes. You can be great in the industry and still encounter nervousness and fear at every level. One participant sums it up: βWe are a lot more afraid of things than we need to be.β Get ready to be inspired to strive for more! Tune in to hear from other members of the community share stories about how they go about conquering each new obstacle humbly and bravely. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We pr
Wed, October 11, 2023
Nuances of Piano Rebuilding w/ Bernard Mollberg
Bernard has been in the piano business for over four decades and runs a classic, timeless piano artisanβs workshop. Piano rebuilding is his forte, and he has a wealth of knowledge to share about it. Bernard began his fascinating foray into the piano world as the son of a NASA rocket scientist. He shares about the partnerships he made and how he created a thriving business in the piano industry. He also shares the importance of word-of-mouth in this field. Bernard takes us through some exquisite pictures of his rebuilding archive and shares his process. He answers questions about how he divides operations in his shop, apportioning some work to part-time employees and contractors. Bernardo talks about how the piano rebuilding process is a team job and what it means to take a leadership role in this intricate process. Intrigued? Enjoy a glimpse of how a seasoned veteran approaches the art of restoring fine instruments. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, October 04, 2023
Insights on Piano Tuning Exam w/ Ricki Kloss
Ricki Kloss is a certified tuning examiner and has been in the piano business since 1995. She shares her story of accidentally wandering onto her career path, encountering one opportunity after another, and eventually opening her own business in 1995. Ever feel like you know only a tiny bit about what it means to be a piano technician? Ricki shares her thoughts on what it means to be a lifelong apprentice in this field and explains what it is to βfail upwardsβ. Since Ricki is a certified tuning examiner, she shares how to go about the exam, who to contact and what resources you need. Ricki says βA lot of the challenge in the exam is timing. People need to work on the timing of each skill in the exam.β If you want more great tips and insights into the exam, jump right into this episode and take notes. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Ricki Kloss: Ricki Kloss, was a perfect example of someone doing what it takes to make things happen. She has been in full-time business since 1995 when she also joined the PTG. Since then sheβs stepped in to help wherever she sees a gap. Sheβs volunteered with the PTG to become a leader among female techs, a convention organizer, and a strong advocate for educational opportunities. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, September 27, 2023
Sigal Music Museum Showcase w/ Thomas Strange
Thomas Strangeβa fascinating, multi-talented individual and the owner of the musical instrument museumβmakes an appearance on this program. In 2008, Thomas was asked to build a Museum to preserve his collection of keyboards. In a decade his vision materialized and gained significant community support. A private collection to a world-class collection of musical instruments, Thomas tells the story of how he was able to set up the β Sigal Music Museum .β If you are ever curious to dive deeper into the historical roots of keyboard instruments, this is a key place to check out. With a collection of instruments all the way from the 14th century, Thomas tells the story of these keyboards, their sounds, and their relevance. Have you ever wondered how to take period pianos to the next level? Thomas, gives us his expert take. Explore the nuances of conservation and other alternatives to showcasing antique instruments in this deeply fascinating session. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Thomas Strange: Thomas Strange has presented numerous lectures/concerts on early piano development and is a builder and restorer of early keyboard instruments. An article on the life of early square pianoforte builder John Geib was published in Eighteenth-Century Music, in March 2010. In addition, Strange has an extensive background in materials science, and is the author of forty-three patents and numerous papers over the last two decades, covering all aspects of capacitor development, with an emphasis on foil development for aluminum electrolytics. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook</
Wed, September 20, 2023
On Pitch w/ Rick Baldassin
Join us in this episode as we sit down with Rick, the esteemed president and founder of Baldassin Pianos. Rick's remarkable journey includes recognition as a PTG member of note and receiving the prestigious 2014 Golden Hammer award, along with his induction into the exclusive PTG Hall of Fame. Moreover, Rick's influence extends to the realm of literature, with his authorship of pivotal books on piano tuning that stand as definitive references in the field. In this conversation, we explore the trajectory of his illustrious career. Rick's unique path began unexpectedly, leading him to a program that lacked certification but proved pivotal in leading to the launch of his transformative 'On Pitch' series. An impressive hallmark of his work lies in his comprehensive exploration of expanded octaves, a groundbreaking endeavor that earned him distinction as the first to dive so deeply and meticulously into this topic. Central to his breakthrough was the harmonious integration of his music theory degree with his pursuits in piano tuning. The evolution of Rick's seminal work, the 'On Pitch' book, is underscored by its recurrent revision and refinement. Within this episode, he generously imparts a wealth of insights pertaining to the art of tuning and the intricacies of octaves. Enrich your understanding by tuning in to this enlightening discourse, where Rick's depth of knowledge shines through. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Rick Baldassin: Rick Baldassin is the President and Founder of Baldassin Pianos in Salt Lake City, Utah. Rick is a Registered Piano Technician, was awarded the Member of Note, and has been inducted into the Piano Technicians Guild Hall of Fame. He is an international consultant for several major piano manufacturers. As a piano technician, Rick has been an active and passionate member of the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG) both serving with his local chapter as well as on the board of the guild. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtw
Wed, September 13, 2023
Master Piano Technicians w/ David Andersen and Eathan Janney
In this podcast episode, the hosts delve into the pandemic's impact on the piano tuning industry and explore the concept of a "master piano technician." Eathan and David share their perspectives. Eathan, the founder of the Floating Piano Factory, recounts how his business adapted during the pandemic. Initially suspending operations for safety, they later resumed tuning despite reduced demand. David discusses the gradual recovery of the restoration business. The conversation delves into the idea of a "master piano technician." Eathan highlights the Clavier Baumeister recognition from German training as significant. Peer endorsements are emphasized as vital for establishing mastery. David notes that mastery comes from a dedicated focus on a specific area, blending meticulous attention and passion for expert performance. Listeners are invited to gain insights into achieving mastery in their craft through this engaging conversation. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live str
Wed, September 06, 2023
The Unique History and Vision of Klavins Pianos w/ David Klavins
Discover the captivating world of Klavins Pianos in this episode as we delve into the history and innovative vision of piano designer and builder, David Klavins. Originally specializing in restoring vintage pianos, David Klavins embarked on a profound exploration of the intricate acoustic principles that shape piano tonality. This pursuit led him to create his own avant-garde grand pianos, each bearing a distinct Klavins signature. Join us as David shares the intriguing story behind Klavins Pianos, offering insights into their evolution and significance. Unlike traditional pianos, Klavins instruments boast a remarkable distinction β towering structures that beckon players to ascend staircases before unveiling their unique melodies. David Klavins stands at the intersection of extremes within the piano world, from crafting the delicate whispers of the smallest and softest pianos to harnessing the thunderous might of those with unparalleled sound projection. In this episode, David articulates his vision for crafting these extraordinary pianos: "I believe that a piano's voice should project directly to the audience, rather than being absorbed by the floor and lid.β His ingenious concept involves expanding the soundboard, employing longer and finer strings to produce a crystalline bass resonance. By orienting his pianos vertically, rather than horizontally, David elevates the instrument's dynamic range to astonishing heights. Delve into the fascinating narrative of Klavins Pianos as David elaborates on the rationale behind the exposed string design, the art of determining key lengths, and the meticulous craftsmanship integral to his pianos' construction. Whether you're a seasoned pianist, an avid music enthusiast, or a curious mind, this episode promises novel insights into the realm of innovative piano design. Tune in to this captivating session and embark on a sonic journey with David Klavins as he unveils the secrets and stories behind his revolutionary Klavins Pianos. Hereβs a little bit about our guest David Klavins: David Klavins accomplished his degree as a master piano builder in January 1980, in Stuttgart, Germany, after having founded his first piano company in 1976 in Bonn, Germany. While initially specializing in the rebuilding of old pianos, in the course of his work he was studying the factors that mainly determine the acoustic characteristics of a piano. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, convent
Wed, August 30, 2023
Period Piano Building w/ Paul McNulty
Paul McNulty, a North Bennet Street School graduate, is an iconoclast in the industry. He was the first in modern times to build an 1830 model Playel, an 1846 Boisselot op. 2800, and an 1868 Streicher. His current efforts are restoring vintage French pianos. The "period pianos" domain can be tricky, and not everyone likes the sound of these unique instruments. But the pianos Paul restores are loved by many. He is at the top of his craft! In this session, he shares his journey and some tips and tricks of the trade that only a period piano builder would know about. Paul started with no skill. But he quickly progressed in his understanding and abilities. Soon after beginning his period of piano studies, he could successfully reassemble anything he had deconstructed. By the age of 32, he had built a pianoforte from scratch. Paul has taken a path less traveled, and for your benefit, he shares what he has learned along the way. He shares insider secrets that could save you significant pain when encountering vintage instruments. Would you like to know how to remove tricky vintage keyboards without breaking hammers? Want some precautionary measures to avoid other damage? Want to know which modern tools can be used to improvise solutions? You gotta catch this episode! Get insider insights from across centuries and understand the piano industry more deeply. Spend some time with Paul today and listen back again whenever you like! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Paul McNulty: Paul McNulty is a maker of world-famous fortepianos known for their superior performance quality, used for concerts and recordings in the most prestigious concert halls, opera houses and owned by prominent fortepiano players and leading music institutions, such as Harvard University, Cornell University, Royal Academy of Music and many more. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtwLXFBbEJzb29QOVZpNnV1Z2tEQlVVWi0xWmVVZDJ2b3RybXE0MS1RV0JxVi1OaDl4bW85cV8wdnA4YlNNekE5RmlfZW8xaHhnNVlUR
Wed, August 23, 2023
Diagnosing A Piano w/ Nick Gravagne
Nick is a piano engineer with over 40 years of experience in the field. He has made significant contributions to the piano trade through his technical seminars across America and numerous articles he has authored. During our session, Nick shared his unique approach to understanding pianos. According to him, there are three primary elements of a piano that demand attention: its body or 'box', its action (playability), and sound. Nick offered clever and crucial insights like identifying issues related to tone quality by plucking strings and listening for their decay rate - a technique revealing each string's efficiency level. Simple but effective techniques like this help both in educating customers about their instrumentβs optimal sound quality as well as guiding our own work process during tuning jobs. Another technique involves a clever way of estimating where a piano's hammer strikes a string. Imagine the hammer striking a string at a certain distance from the capo bar or agraffe. The key is to replicate this distance near the bridge, at the back of the string. Picture it as if you're placing the ideal strike point between the bridge pins and the piano's front. Then comes the fascinating part: using a specialized wedge, somewhat resembling a guitar pick, the technician gently plucks the string at this designated point. If you hear the vibrant high notes you expect, it's a signal that untapped potential can be unlocked through voicing or hammer work. Nick also highlighted how altering a piano's tone can be subjective and tricky given individual preferences and performance situationsβmaking voicing pianos complex yet fascinating! Tune in to learn more clever techniques to diagnose pianos, treat them, and communicate flawlessly with the client about their pianoβs care. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Nick Gravagne: Nick combines a formal engineering background with over 40 years of hands-on experience in piano design, manufacturing, and rebuilding. He has authored numerous articles for the piano trade and has been a featured instructor at piano technical seminars all over the U.S. His business currently revolves around rebuilding and manufacturing custom soundboards for the piano rebuilding trade. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest
Wed, August 16, 2023
Unique Insights From a Pianist and Tech w/ Fred Sturm
Meet Fred Sturm. He's renowned and world-class as both a pianist and a piano tech. In this session, he discusses the connections between his two careers. We learn about his journey down these two intersecting paths, and Fred shows us how one informs the other. Pianists depend on piano technicians. As Fred says, "If we do not give the pianists what they need, they are going to be handicapped." Through personal anecdotes and explanations, Fred demonstrates how to anticipate a pianist's needs. Stay tuned to hear what Fred sees as the most critical factor in piano tuning. The soundboard, the hammers, and the staging are all important. However, adding care and attention to detail in preparing these aspects distinguishes excellent piano work from good. The detailed work that goes into every single instrument is what matters. Any goal less than a singing and blooming sound is only adequate. Fred shares many more personal experiences from his unique vantage point as a pianist and a piano technician. This is a splendid opportunity to learn concepts and ideas to which you may not otherwise get exposure. Piano nerds, this is one you have to check out! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Fred Sturm: Fred performs regularly and has recorded and released five CDs, with another in process. As a piano technician, he has worked since 1986 for the University of New Mexico on a part-time basis, with a private clientele as well. Sturm's training has included the full four weeks of the CF Theodor Steinway Academy, one week of training with Shigeru Kawai, two weeks at the Sauter factory in Spaichingen, Germany, ten or more national PTG conventions, and various other opportunities. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtwLXFBbEJzb29QOVZpNnV1Z2tEQlVVWi0xWmVVZDJ2b3RybXE0MS1RV0JxVi1OaDl4bW85cV8wdnA4YlNNekE5RmlfZW8xaHhnNVlUR3l2XzFhYnQtV1Bna3JLTkVrRW9pMEdnSkQxcVo1WFZUZw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpianotechmaster
Wed, August 09, 2023
A Moment Of Frustration Becomes A Million Dollar Idea w/ Mark Purney, RPT, Owner Of Supply 88
Sometimes a problem is just a path to unique new creations. We all have problems. We all have some that even make us want to give up and crawl into a fetal position. For Mark Purney, string repairs are a dreaded necessity that he wishes didn't exist. As he put it, "I hate doing string repairs. I always have. I probably always will." The most frustrating part for him was storing all the potential gauges of wire he might need. For years he found it hard to store the wires properly. Finally, though, it was his moments of frustration with the piano wire that inspired him to create Piano Wire Tires. It was his first big product as a piano industry entrepreneur, allowing his company, Supply 88, to come into being. Catch this fun and fascinating Piano Tech Radio Hour episode with Mark Purney, RPT, Owner of Supply 88. Learn some inside tips for finding great tools from a master tool creator and supplier himself. Here's a little bit about our Guest Mark Purney: Prior to becoming an RPT in 2007, Mark earned a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering from Cleveland State University and spent 20 years designing electronics and software. Mark studied classical piano at the Cleveland Institute of Music as a youth, played keyboard and guitar in multiple bands, and still plays with his church's worship band. Mark is an avid inventor, having designed numerous specialty tools many piano technicians use worldwide. This led to Mark and his partner Dawn launching Supply88 in 2015. Mark's designs include the Kestrel, the world's lightest carbon fibre piano tuning lever, and Piano Wire Tires, an easier way to store and transport piano wire for field repairs. Mark has also been an active volunteer in the Piano Technicians Guild, serving four years on the Board of Directors (2015-2019 Western Regional VP), four years on the Institute (2014 Director), and chairing multiple committees. Having attended many conventions, seminars, and factory training programs, he's a veteran participant in and contributor to continued education, promoting excellence in the field of piano technology. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram -<a href="https://www.insta
Wed, August 02, 2023
Harmonicity, Intuitive Care and Piano Tuning w/ Dan Levitan
In this session we have with us Dan Levitan, the piano technician turned author who has a lot to offer all the way from taunting lever and tuning theory to the piano tunerβs hand and ear. He talks about his most significant contribution to the field, harmonicity, and the physics of turning tuning pins with a hammer. Dan talks about what it means to be a born craftsman. βEverybody cares about something but you cannot teach someone what to care aboutβ. He talks about the element of intuitive care that goes into excelling in the field - and in his case, it is that of creating harmonicity. What can I do to make this piano the best that it can be? That is the question that keeps driving Dan. If you would like to learn more about the different ways in which your element of care toward piano tuning can make you excel, this class is for you. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Dan Levitan: ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, July 26, 2023
Quick Analysis of Aftertouch w/ Wayne Ferguson
In this session, we meet with Wayne Ferguson, a piano tech who has worked around the globe and visited all the major factories in Europe. He talks about how he makes the key travel in the aftertouch on a piano that is going to be played on short notice. Sometimes the hammer is too far right and sometimes it's too close Wayne follows a structured process where he makes the hammer blow a little further away, does a couple of samples, looks at lead off and drop, checks the key bed and follows some other steps. He also explains what he does in cases where there is little aftertouch and in what situation he makes the lead-off wider. If you would like to learn more about how to do a quick analysis and make the aftertouch right, this session is for you. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Wayne Ferguson: Master piano tuner technician, Wayne H. Ferguson, has been widely considered to be among the very best in the business, Wayne has studied the art of piano technology and piano set up with passion and diligence. His former and present client list is a veritable whoβs who of the music industry in Canada and beyond. Including Oscar Peterson, Keith Jarrett, Stevie Wonder, David Foster, Diana Krall, Wayneβs list of satisfied, repeat customers is testament to his expertise and professionalism. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, July 19, 2023
Anecdotes from Experts w/ David Andersen
In this session, David, our resident expert talks about the power of presence and gratitude. These can drastically change your life and have an impact on your profession as a piano technician. David also calls on Wayne Ferguson to come on and share his experiences with the piano industry and larger lessons from life. Wayne alk about starting young and figuring it out with finances at the forefront. He also gives us a live tour of his workspace and shares some practices that have worked well for him to establish himself in the industry successfully. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, July 05, 2023
Highlights of the Piano Convention w/ David Andersen and Eathan Janney
In this session, our hosts David and Eathan review the 1st PTM global convention's content, identify the highlights and share some of their key takeaways. Eathan tells us about how the fascination of some piano makers with the kind of wool that goes into making felt. Did you know that Steingraber demands the use of wool exclusively from an Australian sheep? They do this because this is the longest fibre they could find which sounds best. They also discuss the importance of range for a pianist and why maximizing it is of utmost importance to a pianist so that they can play each note softly but impactfully. Frederick Chiu, a leading piano technician and industry expert, is also a part of the convention and he talks about the importance of grooves as they give the pianos a little bit more range. Tune into this episode if you want to get a quick recap of all that was discussed during the convention so that you do not miss out on any of the best practices shared by the leading names in the industry. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from pian
Wed, June 28, 2023
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work w/ David Andersen
Tune in to this session and get some great insights from our wise and charming co-host, David Andersen. Heβs a highly respected and experienced piano technician in LA, who has built a stellar atelier for rebuilding fine pianos, attracting high-end clientele and producing excellent work. During the conversation, David shares his valuable knowledge, experiences, techniques, ideas, and life lessons with the audience. One of the most intriguing aspects David discusses is the importance of teamwork in his restoration and rebuilding process. He shares how heβs had to involve other people due to physical challenges, and as a result, he has developed a team of people he trusts and has affection for. These individuals are top-notch in terms of their craftsmanship. David acts as the initiator, the bringer of the client, and the first diagnostician. He assembles a team of experts to do the majority of the work. Then, together with Nick Morello, David performs the final 20 percent of creating that sublime piano sound heβs known for. David's emphasis on teamwork highlights how valuable it is to work collaboratively to produce the best possible results. By building trust, fostering relationships, and recognizing the unique strengths each team member brings, one can achieve exceptional outcomes. David's approach to teamwork is an important reminder that "teamwork makes the dream work." Hereβs a little bit about our hosts David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtwL
Wed, June 21, 2023
The Piano Tech Life w/ Isaac Sadigursky
In this following episode, youβll meet our guest, Issac Sadigursky, the prototypical piano tech. He has been a piano technician for the past 30 years and is a cornerstone veteran of the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG). He has everything from restorations to repairs, from troubleshooting to tuning. In this episode of the PTRH, Issac shares some of his experiences as a piano technician, clever ways of using tools, and much more. Stay tuned for Isaacβs thoughts on the importance of having the right tools for the job. He believes that having a good set of tools is essential for any technician, as it allows them to be prepared for any kind of repair. He goes on to discuss the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and approaches to piano technology. Finally, he stresses the importance of building good relationships with piano movers, as they can be a great source of referrals. Over the years, Isaac has established his business by serving both large accounts and individual customers. His clients include Las Virgenes, Beverly Hills, and Burbank School Districts, Occidental College, Mt. St. Mary's College, and The Jonathan Club. Isaac has also tuned pianos belonging to countless churches, synagogues, hotels, professional musicians, piano teachers, recording studios, concert venues, and private homes. He is also known throughout the piano community for his musical ear resulting from his years of conservatory training as a classical musician. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Isaac Sadigursky: Over the years, Isaac has established his business by serving both large accounts and individual customers. His clients include Las Virgenes, Beverly Hills, and Burbank School Districts, Occidental College, Mt. St. Mary's College, and The Jonathan Club. Isaac has also tuned pianos belonging to countless churches, synagogues, hotels, professional musicians, piano teachers, recording studios, concert venues, and private homes. He is also known throughout the piano community for his musical ear resulting from his years of classical conservatory training as a musician. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians M
Wed, June 14, 2023
Voicing Secrets Shared w/ David Andersen
In this session, our host turned speaker, David Anderson, does a deep dive into the topic of voicing. When youβre voicing a hammer, youβre making it sound deeper, fatter and clearer - which is a product of hearing lower partials clearer. He explains all this in the context of partial undertones. David lets us in on the intricacies of strike point voicing techniques which he has personally used for over 15 years to give a piano what he calls the βgolden toneβ. He achieves this through attention and feel based voicing - and walks us through the entire process. So if you are wondering how to get a tone that is sweet and amber, warm and liquid at low volume - this class is for you. Tune in to hear from a deep expert in the field of voicing. Hereβs a little bit about our David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, June 07, 2023
Building A Sustainable Piano Business w/ Melanie Brooks
Today, we are joined by Melanie Brooks who has been in the piano business for over 30 years and has wonderful insights about how to sustain a piano industry career over the decades. She shares her personal tips on how to continuously tweak your business, and even how to bounce back after any recession. Ever wondered what the living beating heart of the piano community will look like a few decades into the future? Melanie shares her thoughts on this and the sustainability of the piano industry. She also talks about how technicians themselves have evolved over the years and how the best practices have changed. Melanieβs business was started by her father decades ago out of a need for a source of better piano parts. Now she spearheads the entire operation. She talks about this journey and the transformations within the industry over the years. Tune in to her about all this and more. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Melanie Brooks: ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, May 31, 2023
Piano Business Basics w/ Steve Brady
In this session we are joined by Stephen Brady, the author of Under the Lid - the Art and Craft of the Concert Piano Technician . He has been in the piano business for close to five decades and in this session he delivers many gems of wisdom he has acquired over the years. First he talks about trainingβthe process of acquiring the crucial skill a piano solopreneur needs. Steve hoes on to talk about taking classes, building a reliable network, research and reading. These are some of the key ingredients in the lifestyle of high-end piano tech. Our co-host David Andersen introduces the mindset of the piano masters. He says, βIf you can make a radical change in the sound of a piano in a relatively short amount of time - you winβ. Stephan talks about this topic as well, breaks it down, and specifies how he has applied this in his life. If you are looking to get deep insights into the essentials of building a business in the piano industry - this class is for you. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Steve Brady: Heβs an award-winning Piano Technician and a respected PTG veteran. Along with securing a place in the PTG Hall of Fame, he was awarded the PTGβs βGolden Hammer Award,β one of the professionβs highest honors, for his contributions to the piano industry. He is the author of Under the Lid: The Art & Craft of the Concert Piano Technician. He resides in Seattle, Washington. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, May 24, 2023
Tracing Steingraeber Pianoβs Lineage w/ Udo Steingraeber
In this hour, we are joined by Udo Steingraber from Germany, who took over the Steingraber Company at the tender age of 24 and has created a whole new line of products since then. From the old world to the cutting edge, heβs been dedicated to bringing the best of piano past, present and future into one fine instrument. Udo has also been the guiding force behind the European Piano Technician Degree. Listen as Udo talks about the 200-year lineage of Steingraber, one of the finest piano companies in the world. He traces the company's journey since his involvement and how it came to have the value and fame it does today. He also untangles the dilemma between innovating and retaining classical and traditional elements in piano making. If you want an inside look at the mind of a master and industry leader, this session is for you. Stay tuned and youβll find out how Udo introduced alternative sounds and touches to his pianos to enrich the life of artists - and so much more. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Udo Steingraeber: In 1980, Udo took over the direction of the company at the tender age of twenty-four. Along with inventors, he also created a whole new range of products within the Steingraeber & Sons brand. Heβs been the guiding force behind the European Piano Technician Degree. Udo has been awarded two cultural prizes, one from the city of Bayreuth, the other from the Region of Upper Franconia. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, May 17, 2023
One Thing For Spectacular Regulation w/ Hosts David Andersen And Eathan Janney
Have you ever wondered if there's one thing that will make your regulation work spectacular? Today you're in luck because our co-host David Andersen talks about exactly that. According to David, the one thing you need to do is find a protocol that you can settle on, develop, and get better at. You can develop a protocol for setting repetitions, setting a drop, setting off--a protocol for every single regulation step, and more. "Do it the same way and do it in a way that is fun and easy for you," says David. It should be fun and simple--fun and yet challenging at times. This concept applies even more specifically to the newer tuners who are just navigating their life as piano techs. What if you just can't get confident enough to even get started with tasks that seem insurmountable, like a full-action regulation? If you are afraid of regulation or procrastinate on regulating pianos just because it's toughβ¦ you need to just do it and tackle your fear. Having a protocol will help you focus on the task and less on the voices in your head distracting you. "Getting better at things when they are out of your typical practice is tough. But you're not going to learn what you don't know until you start doing that thing." Tune into this episode and learn more about what David, Carl Lieberman, and the rest of our participants think works best for them while regulating a piano. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ <
Wed, May 10, 2023
Letting Your Intuition Tune The Piano w/ Hosts David Andersen And Eathan Janney
How often have you let your intuition take the upper hand while tuning? In this episode, David Andersen sheds light on a rarely spoken-about aspect of piano tuning. He says, "We all think way too much. [As a piano tech] we've tuned piano thousands of times and our bodies remember that." And according to David, it's so important that we don't get stuck on our fears of making mistakes--our fear of failing. In many respects, we can just relax and let our bodies do the work. Further on, in this episode, Eathan also adds the perspective of someone more analytical. Despite the advantages of thorough analysis, too much of "I should be doing this" or "that article said to do that thing" can cause distractions and not actually help you tune a piano well. So, letting our bodies do the tuning doesn't just apply to the intuitive folks. It applies to all! Tune into this episode and listen to David Andersen talk about how "being bad first" can help you and also learn about open string tuning. We'll even touch upon some of Virgil Smith's tuning practices and so much more. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction fro
Wed, May 03, 2023
What Does A Sound Engineer Want In A Piano? w/ Frank Wolf
You must have tuned a piano for a recording at least once in your life. If not, you might wish to tune for a recording studio at some pointβ¦ Our Radio Hour guest in this episode, Frank Wolf, a highly-acclaimed sound engineer, shares his opinions on what makes a piano perfect for recording right down to the intricacies of recording within different genres. The live audience from Piano Tech Radio Hour this session jumps in with their experience on tuning for recordings as well. Weβre reminded that touching the mic is a big no-no, we even hear of Elton Johnβs own tricks to recording the best sound, and so much more. Tune into this episode to learn about all the ins and outs of how a piano should sound during recording. Listen to different recordings by Frank and listen to the magical vibes of the pianos used in them. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Frank Wolf: Frank Wolf has worked as a sound engineer on several top shows and movies. He was the scoring mixer for movies like Rambo: The Last Blood, The Mummy, Charlieβs Angels, and Looney Tunes and worked on soundtracks of Mulan, Tangled, Monsters, Inc, and many more. He graduated from the Los Angeles Recording and Film School as a Sound/Recording Engineer and worked with top-tier production houses like Monterrey Productions, DreaMusiCinema, and more. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, April 26, 2023
A Concert Pianist On Pedals & Voicing w/ Frederic Chiu
In this episode of our podcast, join us as we delve into the world of pedaling technique, piano hammer shaping, and voicing with classical pianist, Frederic Chiu. With a wealth of experience and musical achievements under his belt, Frederic is joined by the veteran piano technician and piano industry expert, Eric Johnson. In addition to a fascinating discussion of advanced pedal techniques, they tackle the topic of humility. Even the most skilled technicians have moments of uncertainty, but Frederic and Eric explore how to navigate those situations and grow from them. Do you know what the phrase "piano techs do not control what the piano sounds like" means? Frederic provides insights on pedal regulation and usage, explaining how the pianist can use the piano to create unique and captivating sounds. Ready to uncover the secrets of excellent piano playing? Frederic shares his personal philosophy on the art of music-making and the importance of pedaling techniques. Tune in to hear more from this performance, theory, and technique expert. Here's a little bit about our Guest Frederic Chiu: Fredericβs innovative programming includes βClassical Smackdown,β where composers face off in head-to-head comparisons, with listeners voting for their favorite composer: Debussy vs. Prokofiev, Bach vs. Glass, etc. With his wife, Jeanine Esposito, he co-created the arts non-profit, Beechwood Arts & Innovation, to explore collaboration across art genres and the use of the arts and technology to create community. His innovative vision of Romeo & Juliet β The Choice , an immersive, interactive production of the popular Prokofiev ballet, debuted in 2018. Frederic teaches at both Carnegie Mellon University and The Hartt School. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtwLXFBbEJzb29QOVZpNnV1Z2tEQlVVWi0xWmVVZDJ2b3RybXE0MS1RV0JxVi1OaDl4bW85cV8wdnA4YlNNekE5RmlfZW8xaHhnNVlUR3l2XzFhYnQtV1Bna3JLTkVrRW9pMEdnSkQxcVo1WFZUZw&q=htt
Wed, April 19, 2023
Piano Design - The Specifics w/ Del Fandrich
Todayβs session features Del Fandrich, an icon in piano design and a leading industry expert. He talks about his transition from working in the field and tuning pianos to getting into piano design. Del tells us about how to identify a gap in the industry and bridge it effectively. He also walks us through some of the original designs in pianos and where they originated. Building on this, he shares his knowledge about why some pianos have been designed in a certain way, how designs have evolved, and in some cases, why features have been discontinued. Del also gets into specifics about what determines a certain kind of sound - warm, bright, and so forth. If you want to expand your understanding beyond tuning and look at the specifics of designs, this is the class for you. Here's a little bit about our guest Del Fandrich: Since 1960, Del Fandrich has evolved from a basic service technician to an independent rebuilder, manufacturer, and design consultant. He served as the Director of R&D with Baldwin and has consulted with brands like Charles Walter and Young Chang. Most recently he has been working with John Martin of Wertheim Piano to develop a totally new vertical piano. He has authored numerous papers on topics ranging from basic piano technology to advanced concepts in design and manufacturing. He continues to lecture globally as one of the most forward-thinking minds in the piano industry, maintaining several active research projects in his workshop in Olympia, WA. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio H
Wed, April 12, 2023
Failing Upwards Towards Golden Tone w/ David Andersen
David Anderson, our co-host, turns guest today. He has been in the industry for decades, has made nearly every mistake, and has acquired so much excellent knowledge along the way. He calls this failing upwards. "Be bad first; you're never going to get better without it. It's the gateway to success" David shares how to get over gripping and paralyzing fear when trying something new. He also takes on questions about cushions of air under strike points, puck sounds of the jack hitting the spoon, and action alignment based on sound. If you want to get deep into the weeds with David and hear him talk about all the obscure and lesser-known details of piano tuning, tune into this session! Here's a little bit about our host David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, April 05, 2023
Updating Your Toolkit, Learning & Growing w/ Boaz Kirschenbaum
We piano techs all tend to nerd out about our piano tools every once in a while, donβt we? Tune in to this Piano Tech Radio Hour episode and learn what our guest, Boaz Kirschenbaum has up his sleeve or should we say inside his fancy leather tool case? In this session you might discover some unknown or rarely made tools or encounter other fun surprisesβwith Boaz you can always expect a rewarding lecture. Besides being a precision touch design installer, an action specialist, and an amazing Piano technician, Boaz Kirschenbaum is also a toolkit enthusiast and can go on and on about the array of tools he owns. His toolkit consists of several one-of-a-kind toolsβ¦ Some of them were handed down to him by his mentors, some designed especially for him, and others were acquired during his trips abroad. If youβre someone who is wondering whether you need a tool to upgrade or want a tool for a specific tuning activity, you might find your answers in this episode. One important message from Boaz: the only thing you need to accompany excellent skills is highly efficient tools. And never worry too much about their priceβ¦ as youβll often make that money back within one job that tool helps perform! Hereβs a little bit about our guest Boaz Kirschenbaum: Boaz is a graduate of the CF Theodore Steinway Academy in Hamburg, Germany, and holds a Diploma in Advanced Piano Technology from the North Bennet Street School. Boaz was employed by Steinway & Sons from 2003-2006. His mentors include Bruce Clark, Ron Coners, Aleks Markovich, Eric Schandall, and David Stanwood. Boaz is a Precision Touch Design Installer and action specialist. He returned to field service in 2015 as a full-time road warrior for Fredrick Mudge, servicing all of New England and New York City. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0tuaWtwLXFBbEJzb29QOVZpNnV1Z2tEQlVVWi0xWmVVZDJ2b3RybXE0MS1RV0JxVi1OaDl4bW85cV8wdnA4YlNNekE5RmlfZW8xaHhnNVlUR3l2XzFhYnQtV1Bna3JLTkVrRW9pMEdnSkQxcVo1WFZUZw&q=https%3
Wed, March 29, 2023
Trial & Error In Piano Tuning w/ Chris Brown
Learn how guesstimating is a crucial part of piano tuning from Chris Brown. According to him, trial and error learning, guessing, and estimating are some of the strongest tools at the disposal of piano technicians. We learn it from the earliest age. When Piano Techs learn to tune a piano they are doing trial and error learning, monitoring three-dimensionally all aspects of the tension and twist of pins. Chris further shares how he discovered that traditional practices in piano tuning were not enough to get the finest results. Tune into this podcast episode with Chris Brown, Registered Piano Technician (RPT), and our special hosts David Andersen and Eathan Janney as they dive into discussions on several piano tuning technicalities right from the hammers to pins and keys. A little about our guest Chris Brown: Chris Brown is a Registered Piano Technician of Grandwork Tools. He started his career as a piano technician in 1977. He is one of the leading piano technicians who master various skills like concert tuning, rebuilding, and teaching. He is also a college technician and private customer piano-care provider along with being a designer, engineer, and manufacturer. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, March 22, 2023
Organizing Shops, Rebuilding Pianos w/ Bill Monroe
Todayβs episode features Bill Monroe, an expert at rebuilding grand pianos and a top technician with over 20 years of experience. In covering a range of topics, Bill starts by talking about the thought that goes into building and organizing a shop. Planning your own workshop? Tune in to learn why ductwork (custom tubing) underneath the concrete is a cheat code and a pro tip. How do you divide your time between fieldwork and the shop? Bill shares his insights about managing a variable and dynamic schedule. Lastly, have you thought about elevating your business through a web presence? Bill has seen his business grow over the past five years through online savvy, and he breaks it down for us. If you want to hear from a leading piano tech about his journey, methods, and tips to navigate this industry, tune in! Here's a little bit about our guest Bill Monroe: Bill, William, Monroe is a Registered Piano Technician and PTG member, specializing in rebuilding grand pianos. After graduating from school at Montana State University in Bozeman in wildlife ecology, his career took a detour in the year 1999 when he decided to tune pianos full-time. He is the owner of A440 Piano Services in Belleville, Wisconsin. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, March 15, 2023
Concert Tuning Tips To Create The Kinesthetic Snap w/ David Andersen And Eathan Janney
Concert tuning can easily go wrong by under or overdoing it. The reason? You have to keep in mind that what an artist hears wonβt be the same as what the concert hall audience hears. In this episode, our hosts David Andersen and Eathan Janney, along with our amazing live audience get into a deep discussion on everything from Jurgen Goeringβs chopstick voicing tool to tuning the piano so that the musicians find the kinesthetic snapβthe popping sound and feel that make for the best player experience. And thatβs not all, members from our live audience jump into the discussion with their tools, share their expertise and have a good time being oh-so nerdy about pianos. If you have any questions or curiosity about whatβs going on in the piano industry tune into this episode and get yourself updated regarding concert tuning tips and more. Hereβs a little bit about our hosts: David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. Eathan Janney: Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey. Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago. In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repai
Wed, March 08, 2023
Following Your Tech Passion w/ Eric Johnson
Today's guest is Eric Johnson. A man whose true calling is with pianos. He tried to leave the piano industry at one time, pursuing a degree in business and a different career. It was when he had a series of interviews with banks, insurance companies, and consulting businesses during his second year of business school that it hit him. He could not pretend that what they were saying was intriguing! The words weren't exciting, and the work wasn't either. Why pretend? So, after a few dull job experiences, he returned to the piano industry. Early on, he joined Jordan Kitts Music and made various connections before landing a job at Yamaha. Due to his professional background, he has developed strong relationships inside the piano industry and a deep understanding of how it works. His career has been long and storied, and he's built an impeccable reputation. He currently tunes and fixes pianos in Charleston, South Carolina, and New York City neighborhoods. Here's a little bit about our guest Eric Johanson: Eric Johnson, RPT is an active PTG member specializing in high-end European Pianos. He has worked for piano manufacturers like Kimball, Yamaha, and Bosendorfer for significant time periods. In addition to piano work, heβs earned an MBA from Cornell University. His career has led him to become well-connected in and knowledgeable about the piano industry. He currently tunes and repairs pianos in areas surrounding New York City and Charleston SC. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, March 01, 2023
Always Strive For Better w/ Thomas Zoells And David Graham
In this week's episode, David Graham and Thomas Zoells of PianoForte in Chicago join us. David pays homage to the great Virgil Smith, a renowned piano tuner. The icon of the piano trade still inspires him to this day. Virgil constantly pursued improvement and sought a better way. David would run across people who had studied with Virgil and continued to apply techniques learned for years, only to discover that Virgil's own methods had changed and improved by then. David said of Virgil, "He picked up the tuning hammer, and if he were still alive, he would still be tuning differently." Our second guest, Thomas, previously spent 20 years in the banking industry. Through his banking experience, Thomas learned how to analyze firms' balance statements and identify potentially dangerous situations. Thomas put this knowledge to use once he had a piano store. In 2004 when the piano market was in decline, it was challenging to sell a piano. At this moment, Thomas was cautious and didn't take on too much debt or inventory, which paid off. The piano business is like any other. You've got to manage overhead and cash flow and pay attention to trends. Tune in to learn from Thomas's savvy perspective. Here's a little bit about our guests: Thomas Zoells Thomas and his wife Darcy founded PianoForte Chicago, Inc. and PianoForte Foundation NFP in 2004. Having grown up in Switzerland and Vienna, he had worked for Ingpen & Williams in London, a classical artist agency, but then had a nearly 20-year career in banking. From being a store with only 4 pianos, all of them by Fazioli, PianoForte has grown into the premier downtown Chicago showroom. PianoForte features the full line of Yamaha pianos, as well as a 100-seat venue and recording studio that has become a focal point for small-scale listening and acoustic music recording and streaming. Visit here: www.pianofortechicago.com David Graham His learning as a piano technician began in a class taught by Robert Carbaugh at Moody. It continued when Virgil Smith said, β I think you can tune well enough to be my apprentice.β The next change of direction came when he was asked: β Would you like to tune at Lyric Opera of Chicago?β (1982). Heβs still there. He began a full-time position at Northern Illinois University in 1983 and continued until recently transitioning to part-time. In 2004 he began working with Pianoforte Chicago on Fazioli and other high-end pianos alongside Thomas Zoells. His current clientele is a mix of private clients and institutions. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruc
Wed, February 22, 2023
Jurgenβs Insights On Cultures And Tools w/ Jurgen Goering
In todayβs session, Jurgen Goering talks about his journey of becoming a German-trained piano maker. Ever wondered how to navigate having clients from different cultures? Learn from Jurgen whose love for exploring different cultures has landed him a ring of clients in the Arctic Circle. He also shows us his souvenirs of ivory tusks from the north pole! Do you as a technician wonder which tools are best for the job? Jurgen talks about the tools he has regretted buying. Here's a little bit about our guest Jurgen Goering: Jurgen is a German-trained Piano Maker and Technician who is based in Canada. He is the owner of Piano Forte Supply, North Americaβs specialty supplier of the worldβs finest tools, materials, and parts to piano technicians and other industry professionals. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, February 15, 2023
Tips For Piano Industry Entrepreneurs w/ Timothy Barnes
In this session, Tim Barnes, a serial entrepreneur currently running two successful, well-loved piano companies, discusses his journey. Tune in and listen to Tim talk about how he went from owning a lawn care business to becoming a piano industry business leader. Tim has become a seasoned piano tuner, built a team of skilled piano technicians, and a platform we all use for scheduling--Gazelle. Tim says, "a lot of people aren't aware of the capacity of their piano." He describes how to leverage this fact to exceed client expectations and help them realize the true potential of their pianos. Have you, as a technician and freelancer, needed help deciding the right pricing for your services? Charging too little? Too much? Just right? Tim shares insights about these by looking at pricing and skill alignment. Here's a little bit about our guest Timothy Barnes: Timothy Barnes is the founder of three successful companies, the well-loved pianos, Barnes String covers, LLC, and the Gazelle network. In addition, he is a seasoned piano tuner, author, teacher, entrepreneur, and leader in the PTG. He is based in Charlotte, NC. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, February 08, 2023
Global Piano Thinking With Glenn w/ Glenn Treibitz
In today's episode, we host Glenn, a trained music educator, and award-winning musical theater composer, lyricist, and librettist. He shares his experience running Hollywood Piano, an iconic dealership with deep roots in film and TV history. He has a unique perspective in the troubled and uncertain times of covid. Has your business suffered through covid? Tune in to hear from Glenn, who has catered to his existing clients and recently opened a new store. He talks about what it takes to survive and thrive during these difficult times. Glenn also shares knowledge about how different markets worldwide work, specifically the Chinese market, and whether or not they have their own arc. If you want a peek into the fascinating world of the global piano industry and culture and how you can cater to this market, listen in! Here's a little bit about our guest Glenn Treibitz: Glenn is a trained music educator and has served as a pianist, vocal coach, musical director, and conductor for musicals, nightclubs, and cabarets. He was also awarded for his works as a musical theatre composer, lyricist, and librettist. Media, experts, and colleagues often call Glenn for his advice and information on all things Pianos. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, February 01, 2023
Perfecting Concert Piano Prep w/ Sally Phillips
In this information-packed session, Sally Phillips, a globally sought-after Steinway and concert prep expert, shares some of her most powerful secrets. She takes apart and puts back together the process of creating that βPerfectβ piano sound. After all, she doesnβt take her brand name βPiano Perfectβ lightly. Learn special techniques in voicing, regulation, and more. The takeaway from this info-packed session is that the little things matter. And Sally shows you how she pays attention to the most minute adjustment to achieve outsized results. She creates a piano sound that pianists love and is nearly sublime. Hereβs a little bit about our guest Sally Phillips: Over the past 40 years, Sally Phillips has worked in virtually every aspect of the piano industry: service, retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. She has tuned and prepared pianos for recordings and concerts in such venues as Town Hall in NYC, Alice Tully Hall, the Kennedy Center, and for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Concert Orchestra, and the Vienna Philharmonic. She's a 1976 graduate of North Bennet Street School. She has published articles for Piano Buyer, The American Organist, and the PTG Journal. Sally lives in Columbus, GA dealing in Steinway and other fine pianos as Piano Perfect, LLC. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pianotechmasterclass FB - https://www.facebook.com/pianotechmasterclass Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1jiIJEA9pToGft6fdfZaxu
Wed, January 25, 2023
Caring For The Piano, But Also The Piano Technician w/ Steve Brady, RPT
Our guest for this episode, Steve Brady, finds that the CA glue used in many technical situations is a little invasive for our bodies. Have you noticed that about the glue too? Steve has grown sensitive to CA glue (a.k.a. Crazy Glue or Super Glue) and only uses it when it's absolutely essential, like for repairing hairline defects. And even then, he uses a respirator to avoid the fumes getting into his nose. He further explains how to appropriately use glue for pins, syringes for controlling the flow of cement, and so much more. Tune into this episode and learn more about strings, tuning, working on verticals, and protocols for fine hammer fitting. Here's a little bit about our guest Steve Brady: He's an award-winning Piano Technician and a respected PTG veteran. Along with securing a place in the PTG Hall of Fame, he was awarded the PTG's "Golden Hammer Award," one of the profession's highest honors, for his contributions to the piano industry. He is the author of Under the Lid: The Art & Craft of the Concert Piano Technician. He resides in Seattle, Washington. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pianotechmasterclass FB - https://www.facebook.com/pianotechmasterclass Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1jiIJEA9pToGft6fdfZaxu
Wed, January 18, 2023
Piano Tone Is Completely Subjective w/ Chano Dominguez and David Andersen
So much in life is subjective. And youβd think with a βmachineβ like the piano, the way it should sound is set in stone. However, when analyzing a single pianoβs sound, one piano technician might say theyβd like it softer, while another might not see anything wrong with the sound or styleβthey are thoroughly enjoying it. Does that mean one of them is wrong? Not really; the right tone is entirely subjective. In this session, with a world-class Flamenco-Jazz pianist, our co-host David Andersen explains how many leading pianists made one of his pianos sound different from tune to tune. Thatβs right, even though he laid the foundation, great artists were able to achieve a unique sound, within each performance. Chano further explains, from an artistβs perspective, how every pianist has a different tone. This effect applies to not just their personal βvoiceβ but the voice they create for every tune. This conversation extends beyond piano tone, to an artist's challenges with and strategies for piano care. We learn about how Chano's piano is situated in a challenging environment that makes it susceptible to going out of tune more often. Stay tuned, and learn how great artists stay tuned up in this Piano Tech radio Hour session! Here's a little bit about our guest Chano Dominguez: Chano has three Grammy nominations and over 40 years of stage performance experience. As a native of Spain, his works are an ingenious and unique combination of jazz and flamenco music that never ceases to leave their mark on the minds of the audience. Along with his recording and performing career, he has also shared his expertise through seminars and masterclasses and taught at Juilliard, the Taller de MΓΊsica in Barcelona, and other institutions. Early in his career, he formed a Latin rock band, CAI. They released three albums for CBS. However, the band parted ways in 1981, and Chano took on a solo career. Since then, Chano has earned several accolades for his inexplicable works. His album Flamenco Sketches was highly critically acclaimed and in this album, he reinterpreted all five songs from Miles Davisβ βKind of Blue,β and more. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - <a href="https://www.instagram
Wed, January 11, 2023
The Value of Charging More w/ Carl Lieberman
The first price you tell to your new customers sets the tone and sets expectations for future pricing, as well as the quality of your work. Our guest in this episode, Carl Lieberman, shares some excellent pricing rules that set you up to perform as a quality, high-end technician. Letβs talk hypothetical numbers. In your market, you may have to decide which category you want to be in: a) $100-$150 tuner or b) $300. Carl says he is always going to be that $300, higher-level tuner. And you can and should be that too. Charging higher relative to the going rate gives you a different edge. You are building an elite technicianβs brand. The same goes for discounts. Giving away discounts opens you up to unwanted negotiations. The client thinks they can get away with asking to pay less and less. In this episode, Carl also shares some golden advice on mindfully being generous with discounts along with several other tips that will help you become a celebrated piano technician in your city! Tune in to this episode and start your journey to the high end. Here's a little bit about our guest Carl Lieberman: Carl has been a piano technician in Los Angeles for 49 years. I have worked with CyberTuner's creator, Dean Reyburn for the last 25 years and am now CyberTuner's Imagineer. I am a field service piano technician working at a Performing Arts Center, Recording Studios and private homes. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify
Wed, January 04, 2023
Through The Eyes Of A Pianist w/ Alan Eder and Danny Holt
A competent pianist should understand the Tuning, Touch, and Tone circle. Knowing these basics can help them be intentional about the sounds they want to create. Our guest Danny Holt, a multiple award winner and a global pianist, shares his experience as a pianist of learning about how pianos work. Understanding the basics of piano technology has helped him get his pianos tuned and cared for in the way he wants. When he was less informed, he couldn't figure out if an issue was related to tuning, voicing, or a regulation. But with time, he got better at communicating his pianoβs needs with the technician. He also recalls how understanding piano tech basics helped him improve the sound of his pianos for concerts and make specific tweaks with the help of a technician. Tune into this session to learn more about what a pianist needs from a piano and hear some fun anecdotes from our amazing guests, Alan Eder and Danny Holt. Here's a little bit about our guests: Alan Eder: Registered Piano Technician Alan Eder has been the full-time piano tech for the Herb Alpert School of Music at the California Institute of the Arts for 38 years. He has trained with such luminaries of our field as Keith Hardesty and Richard Davenport, RPT, and with Yamaha and Steinway. In turn, Alan has trained many accomplished piano technicians enjoying successful careers as field technicians and working for music schools, piano dealers, and manufacturers. Under the auspices of the Piano Technicians Guild, Alan has taught numerous classes at chapter meetings and regional and national conventions, alone and in collaboration with others. Alan has been a featured guest on Piano Tech Radio Hour, along with pianist Danny Holt, and has been involved in the production of several piano-centric videos, including "Non-Traditional Piano Use," "American Grand" (Amazon Prime), "A Glimpse Into Montal's Paris" (Youtube) and "Piano Rap" (Youtube). Danny Holt: Called "phenomenal" by the late music critic Alan Rich ( solveheard.com ) and hailed as one of the "local heroes" of the Los Angeles Music Scene ( LAcitybeat.com ), pianist Danny Holt brings his boundless energy and wit to unique interpretations of new music, 20th-century music, and obscure, unusual and neglected repertoire from past centuries. Holt performs around the globe in concert halls (Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Bowl), clubs, art galleries, churches, living rooms, and wherever else he can find a piano and someone to listen to. Danny has held fellowships at the Bang On a Can Summer Music Institute, the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall, New England Conservatory's Summer Institute for Contemporary Practice, and more. Visit his website [dannyholt.net] for more information on his adventures ar
Wed, December 28, 2022
Your Mentors And Network Build You w/ David Andersen
In this session, David Andersen talks about the power of having people that inspire you to be unafraid, put in the hard work, and be resilient to failures. You want your mentors and the technicians you hang out with to embody the right attitude that inspires you. David further discusses how our fear of βbeing bad atβ something prevents us from taking action toward our goals. Listen as David goes on to share about one of the massive mistakes in his career--how he killed a piano. But went on to survive and thrive! Tune into this episode to learn what David did that made him lose one of his clients. And gain a valuable life lesson that defines him today. Here's a little bit about our host David Andersen: David Andersen, owner of David Andersen pianos in Los Angeles has been a professional musician, recording artist, and piano technician/consultant for nearly four decades. He has overseen the restoration and maintenance of hundreds of Steinway and Mason & Hamlin pianos during that time. Beginning in 1975 he apprenticed for two and a half years under Jack Cofer in Atlanta, Georgia; during the 1980s he studied at Steinway facilities both in New York and London. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pianotechmasterclass FB - https://www.facebook.com/pianotechmasterclass Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1jiIJEA9pToGft6fdfZaxu
Wed, December 21, 2022
How A Piano Teacher Sees Pianos w/ Owen Lovell
Tune into this episode and hear Owen Lovell talk about his passion for the piano, the state of the piano industry, and his journey into becoming a writer and academic! If you play your cards right, a role as a university music professor can provide you with all sorts of wonderful opportunities. This episodeβs guest, Owen Lovell. Owen is the piano review editor for Larry Fineβs Acoustic and Digital Piano Buyer and an associate professor of music at Georgia College. Interestingly, he has trained as a piano technician under our good friend Sally Phillips. He found his way into his work with Piano Buyer because, as a teacher at a University, he has the opportunity to come across many pianos and pianists who can develop opinions on them, and have the time and skill to write about them. In this episode, we learn all sorts of fascinating things about Piano Buyer and how it works, as well as gain incredible insight from Owenβs multifaceted perspective as a player, teacher, technician, and editor at Piano Buyer. Communication is something that emerged as a very important topic to us in the piano industry. Communication is about listening, not about talking, and pianists and tuners are great listeners. So we just have to extend that to the relationship side of things. An FBI-trained hostage negotiator talks about listening and asking the right questions when negotiating tough negotiations. At the same time, some of the best concert technicians will take the time to sit back and actually listen to the client play the piano before they have a conversation about what needs to happen with that instrument. All that to say, use your expert listening skills to enjoy this episode and youβll get a ton out of it. Here's a little bit about our guest Owen Lovell: Pianist Owen Lovell has appeared as a soloist and critically acclaimed chamber musician in seventeen U.S. states, Washington, D.C., Canada, Mexico, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Commercial releases include tracks with rock musician Kip Winger (2008, Frontiers Records) and ASCAP award-winning composer Randall Bauer (2016, Albany Records). Owen has performed in live broadcasts on Wisconsin Public Radio and Austin, Texas NPR affiliate, KUTβFM. He has worked with many prizewinning composers, most notably Lowell Liebermann, Michael Torke, Samuel Adler, Joan Tower, Dan Welcher, Eric Ewazen, David Maslanka, Denis Smalley, and Roberto Sierra. Owen maintains professional twoβpiano and violin and piano collaborations, delighting audiences in settings ranging from rural community churches to the Kennedy Center. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technol
Wed, December 14, 2022
The Piano And Tuner Are One w/ Dale Erwin and Arlan Harris (Part 2)
If you are someone who likes a power-packed lecture? This podcast episode with Dale Erwin and Arlan Harris is just for you. They talk about everything from using B72, using it on low compression, high-density hammer, how B72 and acetone is the best hardening solution, diagnosing the hammers, and what might be needed to do to change the tone of the hammer. Using different methods to brighten your hammer and how to find what kind of mixture to use to bring out the tone you want. Non-destructive ways to do the needle test on hammers and more. Learn from Dale Erwin and Arlan Harris, who have worked on thousands of pianos, tried and tested several methods, and are now sharing their knowledge along with David Andersen and Eathan Janney. Here's a little bit about our guests: Dale Erwin: Dale being a piano technician wasnβt a planned event, he was unintentionally trained came by accompanying his dad to countless tunings and soaking in the craft through hours of absorption in a shop environment. His official training began with my Dad & Dick Hamlett in 1972 at the family Yamaha dealership in Modesto. Dale became a registered piano technician in 1980. He had the privilege to serve as president of the local Piano Technician Guild chapter for five years, a tuning examiner for 8 years & an instructor at the local, state, and national levels. He has had enormous opportunities and has taught many classes at state, local, and national Piano Technicians Guild conventions. Arlan Harris: Arlan is a piano restorer and a concert piano technician. After working in the Famous Steinway Hall Basement in the 80s, where many of the world's most demanding artists arrived almost on a daily basis, and working as an action specialist as well as tuner/technician, Arlan honed his skills learning from his superiors, colleagues, and top-level pianists. He is the president of Arlan Harris Pianos and Services and Arlan Harris Production. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aE
Wed, December 07, 2022
The Piano And Tuner Are One w/ Dale Erwin and Arlan Harris (Part 1)
Many of us feel pressure while we work, actively concentrating on what we are doing. It's not bad, but over time it can lead to frustration and puts a fence around our work. Our co-host David Andersen shares his philosophy on piano tuningβjust relax and pay attention to your work. Because 8/10 times, your body knows exactly what to do and you can just watch it perform. We just have to let our years of practice flow through us as we pay attention to our actions. Arlan Harris, our guest, reinforces the concept that paying attention is an aspect of passive observance. When you can passively observe what you're doing, you can quickly become one with your work. If you're playing/tuning and passively observing what you're doing, you become the piano. You are one with the piano. In this episode, our guests Dale Erwin and Arlan Harris extensively talk about how you can level up as a piano technician by doing some simple but underrated things like training your ears. Listen to pianos and their tunings and study what you hear. Ask the pianists what they want out of a tuning/piano and listen carefully to their input. As per Arlan's experience, pianists love getting involved in the tuning process, and they are the happiest when we tune their piano just the way they want it to sound. We often get to learn from them just like they learn from us. Learn more about communicating with pianists/customers, getting vulnerable by asking questions, and levelling up by βtuningβ into this episode. Here's a little bit about our guests: Dale Erwin: Dale being a piano technician wasnβt a planned event, he was unintentionally trainedcame by accompanying his dad to countless tunings and soaking in the craft through hours of absorption in a shop environment. His official training began with my Dad & Dick Hamlett in 1972 at the family Yamaha dealership in Modesto. Dale became a registered piano technician in 1980. He had the privelege to serve as president of local Piano Technician Guild chapter five years, a tuning examiner for 8 years & an instructor at the local, state, and national level. He has had enormous opportunities and has taught many classes at state, local, and national Piano Technicians Guild conventions. Arlan Harris: Arlan is a piano restorer and a concert piano technician. After working in the Famous Steinway Hall Basement in the 80βs, where many of the world's most demanding artists arrived almost on a daily basis and working as an action specialist as well as tuner/technician, Arlan honed his skills learning from his superiors, colleagues, and top-level pianists. He is the president of Arlan Harris Pianos and Services and Arlan Harris Production. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechni
Wed, November 30, 2022
Building Trust In The Piano Industry w/ Rich Galassini
"We'll see a snap back in this industry." In this episode, Rich Galassini joins us at Piano Tech Radio Hour while we are stuck amidst a pandemic. We are still figuring out how to bring our piano tuning businesses back. Most of us even think our careers are over, and we might never get back up again. However, Rich has different opinions. And heβs tracking different indicators. The visits to his companyβs website are increasing during the lockdown. Not only that, but he joins us having gotten ten leads interested in purchasing a piano on a previous YouTube Livestream. He thinks that people are getting more curious about pianos due to the sheer amount of free time available. He says, "If we were lunch providers for office goers, our business would probably be doomed (for at least a year or so), But we're piano dealers/techs. When people think about a purchase from us, they undergo a careful consideration process before buying." According to Rich, the buyer purchases can be put off, the clients can do their research, and the piano business will see a snap back after the pandemic. Sit tight, take every opportunity to build trust with your clients during tough times, and youβll come out ahead in the end. Tune into this episode to learn more about Piano dealerships, building trust with your customers, the piano industry post-covid, and more with Rich Galassini. Here's a little bit about our guest Rich Galassini: Rich Galassini was nineteen years old when he first visited Cunningham Pianos as a customer with his parents. A few years later, in 1987, when he was just 23, Rich began working at the store. After working closely with the family that owned the business, Rich was able to purchase the company and remains the owner and president. His background in music performance and music education has played a strong role in the leadership of the business both within their community and within the music industry. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpXS2RHREdSOXl5aERNV3hBR3hfTlJMLVFvUXxBQ3Jtc0t
Wed, November 23, 2022
Piano Industry Innovations w/ Del Fandrich
Bulky pianos have been in this world for ages now. Everything else evolved; our furniture and other technologies became sleek, slender, and aesthetically better, but pianos have hardly changed at all. For example, they have remained thick and bulky even when they are shorter in size. Del thinks there is a whole universe of opportunities for innovation in piano design. He agrees that large pianos can be incredible, they give excellent performances. At the same time, those are not the pianos everyone can afford or accommodate in the limited space of their homes. That's why Del realized he could create more modern, sleeker pianos that even ordinary people could buy. Del says that he wasn't reinventing pianos. But he was just creating a design that people preferred; narrower, aesthetically pleasing pianos suited for small living rooms. Del notes that unfortunately many modern manufacturers know very little about pianos. Theyβre just copying old designs with not much understanding of the βwhyβ behind the design elements. Thus a manufacturerβs attempt at narrowing pianos and making such drastic changes can lead to the production of poorly performing pianos. Thus Del created Fandrich & Sons to pursue the creation of sleeker pianos informed by solid design principles. In this episode, Del reveals a world of exploration remaining: better ways to build solid, sustainable soundboards for small and large pianos; the feasibility of manufacturing in China, Central, and Latin America, and much more. Here's a little bit about our guest Del Fandrich: Since 1960, Del Fandrich has evolved from a basic service technician to an independent rebuilder, manufacturer, and design consultant. He served as the Director of R&D with Baldwin and has consulted with brands like Charles Walter and Young Chang. Most recently he has been working with John Martin of Wertheim Piano to develop a totally new vertical piano. He has authored numerous papers on topics ranging from basic piano technology to advanced concepts in design and manufacturing. He continues to lecture globally as one of the most forward-thinking minds in the piano industry, maintaining several active research projects in his workshop in Olympia, WA. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.
Wed, November 02, 2022
Only Specialized Technicians Survive? w/ Ric Overton
It's not easy being an expert. Especially because your expertise makes it so only you can tell that you're right! Our guest, Ric Overton, has had many experiences where he warned his customers against purchasing a pianoβ¦ but then they went ahead, bought it, and found themselves in trouble. Rick thinks we all should frame our perspective from that of an expertβbe it a piano dealer or technician; it's our responsibility to communicate the knowledge correctly. We have to be armed with the correct information to help our customers make the right decisions about purchases, investments or any other expenditure of time or energy. Our knowledge also dictates how good we do in this industry in the future. To be successful with the right clients, you need to have some specialized skills that set you apart. Our co-host, David Andersen, also chimes in, saying that, in a few years, only the specialized piano techs will survive. According to him, having high-end clients is something every technician should aim for if they want to last longer in the industry. He believes that staying up-to-date on new trends, techniques, and skills is very important. Tune into this episode to learn more about what Ric thinks about building a relationship with a customer, providing them with value, being open to communication and making communication more accessible, and listening to the client's concerns while selling a piano. Here's a little bit about our guest Ric Overton: Ric has a 40-year history as a piano player, choir director, piano store owner and manager. He is currently the owner of R. Kassman, Purveyor of Fine Pianos in the Bay area, and has a profound knowledge of the entire worldwide piano business. ππππ ππ π ππ ππππ πππππ πππππππββ Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/ Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills: How to tune pianos. How to repair pianos. How to rebuild pianos. How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world. Instagram - Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) FB - <a href="
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