Piano Technician
Save
Piano Technicians perform a highly specialized role, related to but distinct from Piano Tuners. Piano Technicians often specialize in repairs, maintenance, or restoration of pianos. They may also regulate key actions, set up new pianos, do voicing and intonation, rebuild soundboards, replace strings, or perform refinishing. Some may even specialize in antique pianos, or in working with specific brands or types of pianos. They work in a variety of settings including private homes, piano stores, and concert halls.
Piano Technician Training
Most Piano Technicians learn their craft through apprenticeships or by attending a vocational or technical school. Some may also gain experience by working as a piano mover. Apprenticeships are typically 3-4 years in length and involve working closely with an experienced Piano Technician. Vocational or technical schools offer programs that are typically 1-2 years in length. Piano Technician training programs typically cover topics such as:
- Piano anatomy and function
- Piano tuning and repair
- Piano regulation
- Piano voicing and intonation
- Piano rebuilding and refinishing
Piano Technician Skills and Personal Traits
Piano Technicians typically have the following skills and personal traits:
- Attention to detail
- Dexterity and manual skills
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Good communication skills
- Knowledge of music theory
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Piano Technician Day-to-Day
The day-to-day work of a Piano Technician can vary depending on their area of specialization. Some common tasks include:
- Tuning and repairing pianos
- Regulating key actions
- Setting up new pianos
- Voicing and intonation
- Rebuilding soundboards
- Replacing strings
- Refinishing pianos
