List. Thought I would share with you the following information. In Norway, there is a proposal before the government to restrict by law the useage of the titles "Piano Tuner" "Piano Technician", and to forbid anyone from selling work on pianos unless they are certified. The Association is working actively here to find an acceptable curicculum and examanitions proceedure to be included at the University level of study for those interested in becoming techs. The proposed testing is quite involved and includes a good deal of rebuilding skills, tuning theory, and of course a tuning and regulating exam. It would take 2 - 3 days to accomplish. 4 years of study would be required. The proposed law has actually a reasonably good chance of being passed. Seems like the biggest hinder at this point is how exactly to set up the course for study. In light of recent discussions regarding the Journal CD, I thought this might be of interest. I am skeptical to the proposed law as I question whether the authorities are willing to enforce it or not. If so.. then I would support it. If one is first going to restrict a trade (electricians, plumbers, pianowork, or any other trade), it must be done by law, and with the sole purpose of preventing those who are not competent in any given field from takeing money from the public for such work. Finland has such a law, and to my knowledge it is very workable. This of course does not prevent someone from tinkering with their own piano, or a friend from talking you into tinkering with yours. But it does severely limit amature / non proffesional work. If the law is passed in Norway, no one will be able to advertise, accept payment for work, use the titles, or in anyway perform any tasks of a piano tech in any commercial sense unless they have authorised certification from the acrediting authorities in Norway. Richard Brekne ICPTG
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