Finding the Right Piano Technician

There are a number of reasons that you want to find the correct person to restore your piano. Whether it's a new instrument that could use a good tuning or an antique piano that could use a good overhaul, finding the right piano technician for your piano restoration can make all the difference in its ultimate quality.

This is one of the most important decisions you will make with regards to your piano. If you value your piano and want the best, you should take your time and find not just a piano technician, but an artist who loves their job and specializes in piano restoration, adheres to the highest restoration standards, has years of professional experience and good references.

First off, look for the music store in your area with the best references. Talk to friends and colleagues, go online, and try to get referrals. The best dealer in your area probably works with the best piano restoration technicians. They can often give you personal references and guide you in the right direction.

Don't forget to check out the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG) website (http://www.ptg.org/). They are an excellent resource and can be quite helpful in finding an expert piano technician in your area who can give your piano the restoration it deserves. Get names, do research, and get referrals.

Piano restoration is an art; there are a number of people who are good, solid piano restoration artists, but only a handful who are truly masters. No matter their level, make sure that they are members of the Piano Technicians Guild, that they are a Registered Piano Technician, and that they have good references. This is essential, as any serious technician will belong to this guild.

A true professional piano technician will do more than "tune and leave." They will share whatever knowledge they have about your piano and its inner workings; they will offer advice and tips on caring for your piano; they will check it out thoroughly and be honest in their assessment. In short, they will offer the full piano restoration service.

dditionally, it's helpful to be somewhat informed about pianos and their parts, including possible problems and aspects of maintenance. Be sure to ask questions. This ensures greater trust and confidence in your piano technician's work; it also allows them to communicate with you more effectively during your piano's restoration. In addition, a decent knowledge base aids in recognizing an experienced, professional piano technician from an amateur or less experienced individual.