>>In a general way this thread perhaps opens up the topic of the role of tuner as educator. We OUGHT to be passionate advocates of the piano and its technology, oughtn't we? I've had opportunity a few times to go into elementary schools and give a little talk on piano construction and various aspects of my job. It was fun and the kids seemed to enjoy it. One of the things I do is put a finger on the various nodes of a bass string to demonstrate the different harmonics. I'll also put the hammer on a pin and make it go way out of tune, then bring it back into tune while playing the note. That gives them the dramatic demo of what I listen for while tuning. I'll pull the action, pull a keystick, basically show them that it isn't just a magic box that produces sound, but a mechanical device with parts that work together. Dean Dean May cell 812.239.3359 PianoRebuilders.com 812.235.5272 Terre Haute IN 47802 -----Original Message----- From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of David Boyce Sent: Friday, June 01, 2007 2:31 PM To: Pianotech List Subject: future technicians Nice thoughts, Annie. I love it when children show an interest, and always enjoy explaining things and letting them see. One little lad of about 6 sat beside me on the duet stool the whole time. His little sister of about 3 was fractious as she had a cold, and the boy confided conspiratorially in my ear "my wee sister's a menace!". And then a bit later when she climbed on the stool and poured the juice in her cup onto his head, he said "See, I TOLD you she's a menace!" It's funny too how some children just aren't interested at all, and will ignore the whole thing, or even turn up the television. It's a nice thought, about stimulating interest in becoming a piano technician. As I child I was always very interested myself when the piano tuner came. Dave Davis,. you are SOOO much older than I - I won't be 50 until October! In a general way this thread perhaps opens up the topic of the role of tuner as educator. We OUGHT to be passionate advocates of the piano and its technology, oughtn't we? To both adults and children. And from a practical, business-oriented point of view, I think we come across as good professionals if we show willingness to engage with the client and take time to explain things fully and clearly, as well as being interested in their own thoughts on pianos and piano music. Best wishes, David.
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