Now that you feel Piano Tuning and Repair is something you would like to learn, your next question is probably, just how the heck does somebody learn to do this anyway?
First some background. In the early 20th century, pianos were a fad. No, they were more like an obsession. Think of all the time and money people put into their stereos, T.V.’s, iPods, iPads, computers, radios, DVD players, MP3 players, etc, etc, etc. Now roll that all up into one ball. Now you have an idea how popular pianos were between 1900 and 1930.
Along with that popularity was a huge industry with booming factories and large demand for technicians. Not only could a technician make a successful career, and their children, but they could learn on the job as an apprentice in the factories or dealerships.
Fast forward 100 years and the situation has changed. Pianos are still loved and sought after by a certain type of person, but they are not as popular as they once were. And with that comes the lack of training opportunities.
Today, if someone wants to learn this trade, they basically have three options:
1) Learn on Your Own. You can learn by taking classes, reading, buying old pianos, working free for friends and family, etc. This is obviously the most flexible and possibly most inexpensive route. However, it is also the most unregulated which means you may miss out on certain topics or not achieve a very high standard.
2) Work as an Apprentice. Sounds great doesn’t it? That’s because you haven’t called any technicians up and asked them if they would train you. Seriously though, it is hard to find technicians willing, or even skilled enough, to train apprentices. If you find one, consider yourself very lucky.
3) Take a Formal Course. Some schools and even universities have formal piano technology programs. The plus side is that you are forced to concentrate on only piano technology for a given amount of time. The down side is that they tend to be in the tens of thousands of dollars and that’s just for the tuition. Food and lodging, and tools, are extra. If you do not have the time or the money, this option may not be for you.
But which option is right for you?
If you would like an idea of which of these options, Individual, Apprentice, or School, may be more appropriate for your personality, aptitude, and circumstances, click the link below and you will be taken to a survey I have created that may help you decide which option may be best for you.
