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Action Regulation | Business & Networking | College & University (CAUT) | Design & History | Health | Players | Rebuilding & Shop | Service & Repair | Tuning | Tuning - Electronic Tuning Devices | Voicing & Concert Prep | RPT Exams & Exam Prep | RPT Examiner | CAUT Recommended Classes

Action Regulation
(E) Everything Upright
Paul Rea, RPT, Petrof, US
Speed things up in your business with “Express Regulation” of upright pianos. That includes prepping uprights for sale both mechanically and cosmetically for dealers, as well as repair or sale from your shop. We also cover the rules for avoiding “call backs.”

(I, A) Grand Action Regulation and More  NEW!
Eric Schandall, RPT, New York City Chapter
You’ll benefit from this thorough description and demonstration of grand regulation. Systemic designs of the action, many suggestions for new piano preparation and efficient use of time are presented. The program will address backstage and on-stage safety, plus an additional segment on service recommendations for piano music majors and teachers.

(E) Grand Damper Systems Demystified
Rick Baldassin, RPT, Michael Spreeman, RPT, and Carl Teel, Renner USA and Schimmel Piano Co.
Grand damper systems involve more than simply seating felt. In this hands-on class, you will cut and bend damper wires, adjust underlever spoons and capstans, and correct problems in damper lift. Timing with both the key and pedal will also be covered. This class has been adapted for general use from the Schimmel factory damper installation procedure. Each participant will work at one of the multi-note action models produced by Renner and Schimmel. All the necessary tools will be provided. No pre-registration required, but space at an action model is only available to the first 24 to walk in the door. Observers welcome.

(I) The Patented Touchrail™
Scott Jones, RPT, PitchLock, Inc.
With hundreds sold worldwide, many professional technicians know that the patented Touchrail™ from PitchLock, Inc. offers an elegant solution for heavy or uneven touch weight in grand pianos. Designed for easy installation producing dramatic, profitable results. Learn more at www.pitchlock.com.

(A) Taming Inertia: Creating a Touch to Die For  NEW!
Darrell Fandrich, RPT & John Rhodes, RPT, Fandrich & Sons Pianos
Excessive inertia is the hugely critical gremlin responsible for the heavy tendon-tearing touch that plagues players of the majority of new pianos and rebuilds. This class presents newly developed tools to accurately quantify, predict and correct action inertia – resulting in “a Touch to Die For” every time.

(E) Teacher’s Notes from Little Red Schoolhouse  NEW!
LaRoy Edwards, RPT, Yamaha Music Corp.
Use these tips and techniques culled from over 40 years of the “Little Red Schoolhouse” to benefit your technical and professional skills.

(I) Vertical Regulation Plus   NEW!
Keith Bowman, RPT & Mike Carraher, RPT, Hailun USA
his new class features comprehensive procedures in upright action diagnosis and regulation. Specific topics will be demonstrated, including regulating damper timing and damper spring tension, setting after-touch, and solving bobbling hammer problems. See our large-scale upright action model as well as some new tools developed from the Hailun piano factory. If you are interested in complete, accurate upright regulation with emphasis on consistent after-touch, this is the class!

(E) The Ultimate Tool
David Andersen, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
Your body is a multi-hundred-trillion-dollar package with unlimited capabilities. 98% of what neuroscientists know about our brains has been discovered in the past 10 years, and we can take immediate advantage of that in our craft and practice. During Part One of this two-part class, you’ll learn about powerful new techniques for growing new neural pathways and increasing your ability to focus, hear the piano, and feel the piano that we will discuss and try out. In Part Two you’ll learn more about protocols that have been developed to work on pianos based on the ideas in Part One in these areas: tuning, voicing, precise, "sweet-spot" action regulation diagnostics – using your body to "be the expert" and consistently sell more work than "just tuning."

(B) Understanding Aftertouch, the Core Principle of Action Regulation
Ed Sutton, RPT, Charlotte, NC Chapter & John Parham, RPT, Charlotte, NC Chapter
When all the regulation specs have been met, there is still the question "Does it work?" The answer to this question can be found at the moment of aftertouch. This class uses structured hands-on learning to clarify the functional relationships of key height, key dip and blow distance in refining action regulation. By the end of the class, students will understand aftertouch, and will approach advanced regulation studies with confidence. The class is taught with grand action models. The same principles apply to the vertical action. No pre-registration required, but materials and tools will only be provided for the first 20 students to walk in the door. Offered twice. Observers welcome.

(E) Vertical Action Regulation: Maximum Results in Minimum Time
Don Mannino, RPT, Kawai America
This class focuses on the goals of regulation and how to fulfill them in the least amount of time. Don demonstrates how to make the piano work best within normal specifications, which tools to buy and which procedures to follow to ensure the best results. This is an excellent class for those who want to get a better handle on making vertical piano actions perform at their optimum while being as efficient and profitable as possible.

(IA) What a Difference a Day Makes   NEW!
Nick Gravagne, RPT, Phoenix, AZ Chapter
If you analyze the grand piano correctly you can determine if it could benefit from an all-day prep. This class assumes an aging, but not worn out, grand. First, you must analyze it correctly, and second, you must perform those techniques which produce the "most bang for the buck".
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Business & Networking
(E) 45 Ways to Make Your Business More Successful   NEW!
Ruth Van Dine, RPT, Rhode Island Chapter and John Parham, RPT, Charlotte, NC Chapter
Discover dozens of tips you can start using right away to get more clients, build your reputation, and boost your income. This class is designed to help you get the most out of your advertising efforts, work more efficiently, and communicate effectively with your clients.

(E) Business Talk Six-Pack
Isaac Sadigursky, RPT, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
Join in an open discussion on retailing for piano technicians, keeping your clients, working with apprentices, shop efficiency and ethics.

(E) Customer Care: Doing Well by Doing Good   NEW!
Evelyn Smith, RPT, Central North Carolina Chapter
Good relationships with customers are the heart of a piano technician’s success. Providing outstanding customer service can give stability to our business and help it thrive even in hard economic times. In this lively class, you’ll learn practical tips to satisfy and delight your customers, and you’ll practice an effective 6-step process for resolving difficult customer conflicts.

(E) Forum for Newsletter Editors: Chapter Communications   NEW!
Mark Gallant, Portland, OR Chapter
Serving as a chapter newsletter editor? Plan to attend this moderated forum designed to share the issues and solutions newsletter editors face in gathering, editing, displaying and distributing chapter communications.

(E) Increase Your Income
Laura Olsen, RPT, Chicago, IL Chapter & Jack Wyatt, RPT, Dallas, TX Chapter
Most pianos need much more than just a tuning to stay in good operating order. Extend the piano’s life, retain dollar value and encourage use by selling a day or half a day of service. Service packages are a good way to fill your schedule and satisfy your customers.

(E) Pricing Piano Service
Dale Probst, RPT, Oklahoma Chapter
Explore a skill that is indispensable in developing a successful piano service business. Unfortunately, this critical segment of our craft continues to be mysterious, misunderstood and even ignored. Learn to count the costs in your business, determine a fair price for value delivered, and to balance work with life.

(E) Putting Together a Top Notch Presentation – Becoming a More Effective Instructor  NEW!
Vickie Cantrell, Lawton, OK
Improve your presentation skills by exploring the different learning styles of students and how to best communicate material through a variety of methods and means. Whether making a chapter presentation, giving a talk to music teachers or preparing to teach at regional event or national conventions, first time presenters and seasoned instructors will both benefit from this class.
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College & University (CAUT)
(I) The Business of Concert Work
Kathy Smith, RPT, Los Angels, CA Chapter
Learn about business and special projects in concert work. After the piano is in good shape, you still must deal with various billing styles, contracts, tech riders, pricing and scheduling. Venues need problems solved: special music desks and benches, dollies, and leg repairs. The class includes lots of visuals and details and the information also applies to non-concert work.

(E) CAUT Forum Discussion
Keith Kopp, RPT, BYU and CAUT Committee Members
Come share ideas about the need for additional studies and research in different areas. Subjects to be considered are: How to effectively market CAUT technicians. What surveys are available to aid us in our work and what additional surveys may be helpful. We examine the need for training and credentialing of CAUT technicians beyond the RPT classification. Ways to find new financing for college and university inventories.

(E) The University Contract, a 33-Year Journey  NEW!
Mike Reiter, RPT, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
If you work in a university or college setting, don’t miss the advice of this seasoned university technician. Hear how to design and maintain a university program, and we’ll discuss the future of piano programs in educational institutions. Mr. Reiter has been the piano technician for Pacific Lutheran University and the University of Puget Sound since the fall of 1980, and overseen the service, purchase and rebuilding of the entire music inventory for both schools.
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Design & History
(I, A) The Art & Science of Strings and Scales
Del Fandrich, RPT, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
Using a “two-note mono-chord” test fixture built especially to test and compare the nature and performance of different types of piano strings, we’ll make direct side-by-side comparisons of the vibrating characteristics of strings having different lengths, diameters, construction and metals each tuned to the same pitch.

(E) Extremely Rare Action Models
Jack Wyatt, RPT, Dallas, TX Chapter, Laura Olsen, RPT, Chicago, IL Chapter, Bruce Dornfeld, RPT, North Shore, IL Chapter
PTG Foundation Board members highlight many of the Foundation’s unique collection of action models assembled by Jack Wyatt over the years. Two brand new models will be debuted. This is a rare opportunity to see these models in action! See how many ways there are to get a hammer to a string and then stop it’s vibration. A slow motion video of a working grand action will be shown for comparison.

(I) How the Piano Works
Del Fandrich, RPT, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
Hear a comprehensive overview of how the piano works. Beginning with an overview of the whole instrument, we examine each major design and construction element of the modern piano and show how they all work together to produce the sounds we know and love. Included are discussions of stringing scales, soundboard design and construction, plates and skeletons, and hammers and actions.

(A) Hybrid Wire Scales  NEW!
Ed McMorrow, RPT, Seattle, WA Chapter
Rescaling pianos has become common since the late 1970’s. The new piano wire from Stephen Paulello and PureSound opens up new ways to approach improving the tone at the scale break. Converting plain string tri-chords to wound strings is no longer the best approach.

(E) Tuning Organizations of the Past
Vince Mrykalo, RPT, Utah Valley Chapter
Past tuning organizations have greatly shaped what we have today in the PTG. To look at where PTG is heading, it gives us perspective to see where we have come from, so this class takes the listener from the beginning in 1893 to the merger that resulted in PTG.
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Health
(E) Are They Bad For You? Hazard and Risks of Commonly Used Chemicals
Roger Wheelock, Dampp-Chaser Corporation
Learn the basics of hazard analysis and toxicology for the chemical products that technicians use. Learn about a framework for risk analysis and how to interpret Material Safety Data Sheets and other sources of information. You’ll develop the skills needed to independently assess products you encounter.

(E) Stayin’ Alive in the 21st Century
Malinda Powell, RPT, Twin Cities, MN Chapter and John Blessing, RPT, Chicago, IL Chapter
Body aches and pains? Stressed out? Your doctor told you that you have Metabolic Syndrome? Come join a fun-filled class where you will hear information geared toward ensuring your health and safety. Part One of the class will be a speaking presentation with illustrations. In Part Two we answer individual questions, and provide blood pressure, heart rate, and respirations checks.

(E) Trigger Point Self-Treatment for Head, Neck and Shoulders  NEW!
Amber Davies, LMT
Learn how to self-treat head, neck, and shoulder pain and dysfunction based on techniques from the “Trigger Point Therapy Workbook” authored by our own Clair Davies. Clair’s daughter, co-author, and massage therapist Amber Davies, LMT will teach this hands-on class. Leave class with simple tools and techniques you can use today. This class is limited to 30 participants. Offered twice. You must pre-register for this class. Fee: $25

(E) Trigger Point Self-Treatment for Knee and Leg Pain  NEW!
Amber Davies, LMT
Learn how to self-treat knee and leg pain and dysfunction based on techniques from the “Trigger Point Therapy Workbook” authored by our own Clair Davies. Clair’s daughter, co-author, and massage therapist Amber Davies, LMT will teach this hands-on class. Leave class with simple tools and techniques you can use today. This class is limited to 30 participants. You must pre-register for this class. Fee: $25

(E) Trigger Point Self-Treatment for Lower Leg and Foot Pain  NEW!
Amber Davies, LMT
Learn how to self-treat lower leg and pain and dysfunction based on techniques from the “Trigger Point Therapy Workbook” authored by our own Clair Davies. Clair’s daughter, co-author, and massage therapist Amber Davies, LMT will teach this hands-on class. Leave class with simple tools and techniques you can use today. This class is limited to 30 participants. You must pre-register for this class. Fee: $25
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Players
(E) Disklavier
The Yamaha Team - Bill Brandom, RPT & Martin Arroya
The first part of this class addresses basic Disklavier service. The second part features more advanced case studies. Choose what you want to see in Disklavier, and take advantage of the opportunity to see some things never offered before.

(I) PianoDisc – What’s New?
Mark Burgett, PianoDisc
Discover new products like the SilentDrive High Definition (SDHD), iPad, and iTouch wireless connectivity, and how they connect to the new SilentDrive High Definition system. The setup procedure for iQ and how it connects to SilentDrive is also be a topic of discussion. Last of all, learn how to connect and record with your PianoDisc system with devices like iPad, and iTouch.
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Rebuilding & Shop
(I) All Day Touch and Tone
Wally Brooks, RPT, Melanie Brooks, Brooks, Ltd & Norbert Abel, The Abel Hammer Company
Geared to the field technician and rebuilder, Wally demonstrates how to prepare and build tone and touch in a new or rebuilt piano. At the end of the day, you’ll have a thorough understanding of how to control touchweight, what affects tone in the piano, the art of listening to tone and a slew of technical tips on hammer selection and voicing hammers. Beginning with a raw piano and ending with a piano that has a clean, strong, focused tone and improved volume and projection, you will see how to get the most out of an in home or concert piano. You’ll get the most benefit from attending the full day, but you are welcome to sit in on any session if space is available.
Tone Regulating the Piano
Hear and see a thorough discussion and demonstration of the cause and effect on tone by strings, bridges, action parts, etc., and the adjustments the technician may do to a piano after manufacture or rebuilding. Practical Touchweight Analysis
This session offers a practical approach to touchweight and its use in grand hammer and action parts replacement. You’ll gain the proper technical knowledge of weight measurements and parts selection and how they affect tone and touch in the grand piano action. We will also discuss using pre-hung hammers.
Felt: And The Piano Hammer
Learn with the help of modern technology and graphics how felt is made, types of wool used and why. Take a microscopic tour through a piano hammer to learn the effects of heat during manufacture and voicing with needles or chemicals. Learn what is different about the new Natural Felt.
Tone Regulating the Piano Hammer
This session entails a thorough discussion and demonstration of the process of putting a new set of hammers into their optimum working state and the art of listening to tone.
Hammer Tone Regulation
You’ll see a demonstration of Tone Regulating a complete set of new hammers as discussed in the “Tone Regulating the Piano Hammer” (a recommended pre-requisite.)

(E) The Anatomy of Restoration   NEW!
Jude Reveley, RPT, Boston, MA Chapter & Rod Verhnjak, Southwest, BC Chapter
The art of our craft originates upon first contact with our client and their piano. As piano doctors, we must know our patient (the piano) inside and out; and we need to exude this confidence to their parents, our clients. This class will include the estimate, evaluation, appraisal and condition report, but will also delve deep into the marketing, selling, planning and execution of the high-end rebuild. Rod Verhnjack and Jude Reveley are coordinating to broaden the scope of this subject with their inherently contrasting experiences of demographics and geography.

(E) The Business of Rebuilding
Wally Brooks, RPT, Brooks, Ltd.
Discover an experienced and proven approach to creating professional estimates, appraisals and contracts. Learn how to successfully sell large and small piano restorations while covering your backside.

(A) Designing New Actions for Old Pianos  NEW!
Jude Reveley, RPT, Boston, MA Chapter
Discover the inner workings of the grand action through the process of designing a new action for an old piano from scratch. Learn where a new action may be called for, and use this knowledge to upgrade your existing process of restoring actions.

(E) Factory Precision Restringing   NEW!
Ed Howard, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
This hands-on class includes preparation, loop tying, felt preparation, scale layout, and all aspects of restringing. Learn to produce consistent coils and beckets. Please bring eye and ear protection. Ed specializes in rebuilding pianos and has literally restrung hundreds of pianos.

(B) French Polish – The Easy Way   NEW!
Doug Gregg, Long Island-Suffolk, NY Chapter
During this workshop, you'll learn to use commercial French polish and other professional furniture repair products to repair piano defects such as the classic water spot and scratches. Color blending, filling and graining, as well as special methods for the ebony finish, will be demonstrated followed by French polishing to a high gloss. Attend "French Polishing with Modern Methods" to prepare for this class. Twelve attendees chosen from the "French Polishing" class will be participating in hands-on activities, but all attendees will benefit from this presentation.

(B) French Polishing with Modern Methods   NEW!
Doug Gregg, Long Island-Suffolk, NY Chapter
This illustrated lecture compares modern French polish to traditional along with some history of French polish. The goal is to demystify French polishing and show that many finish flaws can be repaired with professional results in the home. You'll receive added tips to repair scratches, dents, missing veneer, and the ebony finish. Twelve attendees from this class will be chosen to participate in the hands-on "French Polish - The Easy Way" class.

(I) Grand Action Rebuilding
David Vanderlip, RPT, Orange County, CA Chapter & Kathy Smith, RPT, Los Angels, CA Chapter
Rebuild a grand action, starting with thorough keyframe work, including key bushing, polishing pins and capstans, backcheck work and much more. Then emphasizing efficiency, we cover parts prep, installation, alignment and regulation. Other great classes describe parts selection and geometry – this class takes it forward from there, for a quick, accurate way to get a stable action working at its best, with many slides of tools, jigs and techniques.

(A) Installing the Wessell, Nickel & Gross Top Action
Bruce Clark, Wessell, Nickel & Gross
Replacing an old action with a new one requires different skills than rebuilding. This class covers a number of the skills required to replace an old action. You’ll learn a great deal in this fast-paced class.

(B) Learning All About WNG Hard Bushings
Mark Burgett, PianoDisc
Get some hands-on experience in pinning WNG hard bushing parts and gain an understanding of why these parts are superior to cloth bushings.

(E) Mastering the Grand Action Rebuild
Melanie Brooks, Brooks, Ltd & Norbert Abel, The Abel Hammer Company
From start to finish, learn how to recognize when new parts are appropriate, and how to create a plan of action to sell and complete the job. By focusing on straightforward, practical methods of taking measurements, parts selection and installation tips, you’ll build confidence in your skills, increase your profit, improve the value of the instrument and gain customer satisfaction.

(E) Measuring Protocols
Anne Garee, RPT, Florida State University College of Music
This class gives participants the opportunity to practice measuring techniques for grand action geometry analysis. Lines of convergence, action spread, stack height, action ratio, and additional fore finishing topics will be explored. Improve your grand action renovation projects by establishing good measuring protocols. This class is limited to 20 participants. You must pre-register for this class. No fee.

(B) New Hammers – 6 Ways to Go
Norbert Abel & Helmut Abel, Abel Hammer Company
Starting with fundamental information about felt and hammer manufacturing, learn the basics of weight, voicing, elasticity and hardness of hammers. Make your daily work more effective and easier by learning about the right material and techniques. Take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions from an expert with over 50 years of experience in hammer making.

(A) Off Center Balance Rail Bearings
David Stanwood, RPT, Rhode Island Chapter & David Andersen, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
Alteration of key tipping points relative to the balance rail pins profoundly changes the way pianos play and sound. Historical examples of off center bearings will be cited. See a simple in-home technique for shifting the key balance points to change the action, and how this method evolved into the patented Adjustable Leverage Action.

(E) Piano Teardown/Destringing   NEW!
Ed Howard, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
This hands-on class includes piano evaluation, piano scale information, string and tuning pin removal. Please bring eye and ear protection. Ed specializes in rebuilding pianos and has literally torn down hundreds of pianos.

(E) Replacing Plastic Keytops
David Betts, RPT, & Debbie Cyr, RPT, Boston, MA Chapter
This class features step-by-step procedures that range from removing old keytops to replacement with new plastic keytops. This multimedia presentation with discussion includes: rounding keys to a new height, gluing and clamping, trimming excess material, and final buffing. You also see diagrams of various jigs.

(I A) Steinway Action Rebuilding
Kent Webb, Steinway & Sons
Customers want the assurance of genuine Steinway parts in their pianos that are repaired or rebuilt. We’ll discuss the current parts production and the recommended application for maximizing repairs utilizing Steinway parts. Examine the interchangeability, geometry, and comparisons of Hamburg parts and New York part. Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable information that adds to the quality and value of the repairs and restorations you perform.

(B) Sweat the Small Stuff   NEW!
Rod Verhnjak, Southwest, BC Chapter
We all want to serve our clientele with non-compromising standards that achieve the best results. Find out what to evaluate when inspecting a grand or upright piano for restoration, especially if it has been restored once before. This class is a PowerPoint presentation of "What to..." not "How to..." Learn how to evaluate whether to repair or replace parts and why not to leave the small details out.

(E) Tools for Action Analysis
Robert Marinelli, RPT Pianotek Supply Co. and Anne Garee, RPT Florida State University
This two-period class gives technicians the opportunity to identify action imbalances using diagnostic tools. Class participants will work as teams using action models to find the action ratio using the Stanwood metrology table for advanced touchweight analysis. Strike weight, key ratio, balance weight, wippen weight, and front weight will be covered. A discussion of action remedies and appropriate replacement parts selections will conclude this hands-on class. No pre-registration required, but materials and tools will only be provided for the first 30 students to walk in the door.
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Service & Repair
E) 6-Pack of Technicals
Isaac Sadigursky, RPT, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
Back by popular demand, you’ll enjoy this fast moving set of mini-technicals on tools, gadgets and timesaving tips that will improve your efficiency.

(E) An Everyday Guide to Grand Piano Dampers
Fred Redekop, RPT, Manitoba Chapter
Designed to bring a thorough understanding of the purpose and effect of every bend in the damper wires, we’ll cover troubleshooting and the correction of common problems. You will also gain a better understanding of individual and collective lift.

(I, A) The Full-Service Approach to Piano Maintenance  NEW!
Steve Brady, RPT, Seattle, WA Chapter
Take your daily work to a new level with this full-service approach, by “servicing” instead of “tuning” the pianos in your clientele. Increase your income and customer satisfaction while making your job more interesting and rewarding.

(B) Grand Piano Prep: Making a Difference Dealers will Pay For!   NEW!
Don Mannino, RPT, Kawai America
Revised especially for the PTG convention, this seminar provides practical guidelines and demonstration for preparing new grand pianos in the dealer showroom. We’ll cover evaluation of the piano, prioritizing what work can be done in the time allowed, and making sure you give the dealer the most bang for the buck. In addition to technical aspects of dealer work, learn how to work with dealers so that they will learn to value the results of the preparation.

(E) Heart of the Hammer, The Art of the Bump
Fred Redekop, RPT, Manitoba Chapter
You’ll be guided through traditional techniques of grand piano hammer needling, filing and fitting, as well as regulation steps to achieve a uniform and satisfying aftertouch. Also included is an opportunity for you to get some hands-on experience.

(E) How To Service Grand Pedals With No Recalls
Roger Jolly, Samick Music Corp.
This class completely reviews all Samick Pedal types and how to solve their respective problems. Learn to make bushings that work, and last, with our step-by-step tutorial. Avoid callbacks by using the correct lubricants for pedals and trap work. Learn to make your own leather spacers, and glue them so they stay in place. Regulate pedals for no pianist complaints. Review half pedaling for both unacorda and damper pedals. Find out why concert pianists are so fussy about pedal use and adjustment, and we’ll relate the pedal to a musical performance. Get professional results with easy, commonsense solutions.

(B) The Jansen Artist Bench: Anatomy, Service & Repair
Bruce Stevens, RPT, Paul L. Jansen & Son, LLC
This all-new convention class starts with a fast-paced PowerPoint presentation on what is involved in the care and maintenance procedures of the world-renowned Jansen & Sons artist bench. The second half features a demonstration of these procedures.

(E) Lacquer Finish: Touch-Up and Repair
Ruth Phillips, RPT, Allied Piano
See a demonstration of the restoration of older finishes and touch-up of lacquer and varnish. Learn to make repairs and de-gunk the finish. Burn-ins, color matching, pigments versus dyes and other subjects are covered. Bring your questions.

(I, A) New Topics, Themes and Imaginings   NEW!
Eric Schandall, RPT, New York City Chapter & Tone Røimål, Norway
This class features voicing demonstrations, techniques, and new ideas specifically for octaves 5 and 6, regulating techniques focused on the pianist, and thoughts about the importance of imagination in our profession. You’ll also hear an overview of technical education in Europe, compared and contrasted with those offered in North America, followed by a commentary on the presenters’ work in Norway.

(E) The Piano Life Saver System – Respond to Clients Needs and Exceed Their Expectations
Kelly Hollifield & Steve Malloy, Dampp-Chaser Corporation
Be your client’s hero! Establish yourself as a knowledgeable and trustworthy resource. Learn to educate piano owners, recommend best solutions, and install and service a System efficiently. Benefit your business and make a client for life! Assisting Kelly is Steve Malloy. Steve has extensive experience in harsh Midwestern and mild Northwestern climates.

(E) Polyester Finish Repair
Ruth Phillips, RPT, Allied Piano
Polyester finishes are everywhere, not just on pianos. See demos of scratch removal, simple fills, and larger damage and edge repair. It’s rewarding to be able to satisfy a customer who is distraught over the chip the cleaning service caused, or to get rid of the scratches on the music desk or lid from music and lamps.

(B) So You Want / Need to Move a Piano
Gary Telleen, RPT, Wichita, KS Chapter & Pete Coleman, Phoenix, AZ Chapter
This introductory class in basic piano moving examines typical moving techniques and showcases necessary equipment needed to safely and efficiently move both vertical and grand pianos. The hands-on approach allows some class participants to experience how to safely break down and set up a grand.

(E) Strategic 8-Hour Piano Maintenance NEW!
The Yamaha Team - David Durben, RPT & Yoshi Suzuki
Follow along as we examine an outline of an 8-hour maintenance procedure, and how it should be done on any piano, but especially pianos that are used in circumstances with more critical expectations.

(E) Troubleshooting Dynamics
Phil Glenn, RPT, Puget Sound, WA Chapter
Good troubleshooters use intuition and reason to solve problems. You’ll learn common sense problem solving from a veteran of more than 35 years with Yamaha, Samick and Young Chang. The class concentrates on action and voicing situations, but you’ll be able to bring up your own examples for the class to solve. Stump the class and win a prize.

(B) Tying the Tuner’s Splice
Ed Sutton, RPT, Charlotte, NC Chapter & John Parham, RPT, Charlotte, NC Chapter
Tying the Tuner's Splice is a basic skill involving conceptual and practical understanding of materials and tools. This class uses structured exercises to give a focused hands-on learning experience that will quickly place new skills in the hands and mind of the student, demonstrating the kind of skill development needed to become a competent piano technician. No pre-registration required, but materials and tools will only be provided for the first 20 students to walk in the door. Offered twice. Observers welcome.
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Tuning
(E) Aural Pitch Raising
Dan Levitan, RPT, New York City Chapter
This class features a complete aural pitch raise of a grand piano, using a variety of extremely fast and accurate techniques that offer a pleasant break from the ETD.

(E) Fusion Tuning
David Brown, RPT, Dallas, TX Chapter
Using your ETD and ears is not an either/or proposition. Come learn to use the most powerful aspects of both to produce a musical and stable tuning. Listening to the piano is only part of the equation.

E) Impact Tuning Hammer Technique
Dean Reyburn, RPT & Nate Reyburn, RPT, Reyburn Piano Service
Impact tuning can reduce the strain on your body at the same time it allows you to tune with ease, stability and speed. This technique requires a different type of tuning lever than the standard fixed tuning lever. We'll show how to hold and manipulate the impact lever, different types available. Reducing the strain on your shoulder, neck and back are crucial whether you're just starting out or have been tuning for years. Impact tuning is an easier skill to learn for new tuners, and doesn't require upper body strength, just fine control.

(E) The Law of Averages vs. The Laws of Nature   NEW!
Dan McElrath, RPT, Alaska Chapter
See a different view of how you approach the tuning of pianos in extreme climates. Learn how to document piano tuning history and utilize that information in conjunction with formulas that will insure greater longevity and stability in pianos, that for various reasons, you may not see as often as necessary.

(E) On Pitch
Rick Baldassin, RPT, Salt Lake City, UT Chapter
Rick's book On Pitch has been called "a modern classic in the field of piano technology." The author and former Journal Tuning Editor lectures on tuning again this year at the annual convention. The subject is tuning theory and the integration of aural and electronic tuning techniques. Overtones, intervals, aural tests and setting instructions will be presented from both perspectives. The class will be of equal benefit to aural tuners, those using an electronic aid, and those who utilize both methods. Wireless headsets will be provided to make the beats easier to hear. You are guaranteed to hear the beats! The revised edition of Rick's book will serve as the class outline. It is suggested that participants bring a copy to class, as there will not be an additional handout.

(E) The Piano Tuning Formant: Tuning Using Psychoacoustic Vowels   NEW!
Ben Gac, RPT, Chicago, IL Chapter
Explore the characteristics of intervals and how their partial structures contribute to the illusion of the vowels. After identifying the parallels between vocal sounds and piano sounds, we’ll take a look at how to utilize the similarities for better tuning results.

(E) Practical Tuning (Always Tighten the Bench)
Jeff Hickey, RPT, Portland, OR Chapter
Learn some practical tips from a simple bench-fix to adjusting spinet lifters. See why “tuning” is just part of the job in your customer’s home. The heart of this tuning class is a 4ths/5ths aural temperament you can easily master and tuning tips on everything from pitch raises to stability…practically speaking.

(E) Six Things You Need to Know to Tune a Temperament
Randy Potter, RPT, Portland OR Chapter & Lynne Potter
Perhaps one of the reasons some have trouble learning temperament tuning is because it is made out to be so hard. It’s not as complicated as we sometimes make it seem. There are only six things you need to know, and be able to do, in order to tune a temperament. So let’s go back to the basics – and get on with it.

(I) Tuning in the “Goldilocks Zone” - A Guide to Efficient Tuning   NEW!
Ben Gac, RPT, Chicago, IL Chapter
Want to learn to speed up your tuning time without compromising quality? Find out how to place your intervals “just right” by listening to the “too hot” and “too cold” intervals surrounding it. Time is also devoted to exploring the method of tuning unisons as you go.

(I, A) Tuning Techniques for Stability and Speed
Steve Brady, RPT, Seattle, WA Chapter
Without stability, it doesn’t matter how good your tuning sounds. Without a certain amount of speed, you can’t make a living by tuning pianos. This class provides tips and techniques to help in both areas.

(E) Unison Tuning – Alternate Approaches
David Brown, RPT, Dallas, TX Chapter
Unison tuning is the most important, least talked about aspect of tuning. Come and learn a variety of methods for setting solid, clean musical unisons. We’ll focus on hammer technique and a wide array of listening skills.

(E) Use the Fourths, Luke
David Andersen, Los Angeles, CA Chapter
We prove with certitude that the beat speed of fourths in a quality ET tuning stays the same¬–between 1 and 2 bps–across the whole scale of the piano, and can be used to tune with tremendous accuracy. Learn to implicitly trust your own ears so you can provide custom, musical tunings on every piano. The class will be inspired to rely more on their ears and their body and less on devices, protocols, rational analysis, or speculation.

(E) Tuning Tutoring
Keith Kopp, RPT, Utah Valley Chapter and Eric Nikiforoff, RPT, North Dakota Chapter
There’s no better way to improve your tuning than one-on-one tutoring by a master tuner. Private tutoring will benefit you no matter what your skill level. With an outstanding duo of tuning tutors, you’ll find a universe of tuning knowledge to explore. This all takes place in a one-on-one format lasting 90 minutes. Only 18 slots available. You must pre-register for this class by calling 913-432-9975. Fee: $120
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Electronic Tuning Devices
(All on Thursday or Saturday evening from 5:45 - 7 p.m.)
(B) Basics of Tuning with the Accu-Tuner
Paul Sanderson, Inventronics, Inc.
For the technician who is not familiar with the Accu-Tuner or wanting to know more of the features of the Accu-Tuner, this is a chance to learn the basics: how the lights work, selecting a page in memory and using the stored tunings, how to create and store 88-note tunings in memory at pitch or offset, and using the automatic pitch-raise feature. You'll have a chance to see the Sanderson Accu-Tuners I, II & III and there will be time for questions and answers.

(A) Advanced Features of the Accu-Tuner IV
Paul Sanderson, Inventronics, Inc.
See how you can use the Accu-Tuner IV to lighten your workload. The Accu-Tuner IV has taken the features of previous Accu-Tuners and is moving forward with new features. We'll cover the new menu system, varying pitch raise overshoot, early music temperaments, sequences, and loading/offloading tunings to memory with Piano Librarian software.

(E) Introduction to the SMARTER Reyburn CyberTuner for iPhone/iPod
Dean Reyburn, RPT & Carl Lieberman, RPT, Reyburn Piano Service
In this class we will be using the NEW iRCT for Apple iOS. We quickly cover RCT basics, then demonstrate using RCT's Smart Partials analyzing a piano's inharmonicity to create smoother transitions at the breaks. We also explore basics such as quick, accurate pitch raises, and converging the ear's aural preferences with a machine's digital decision making using RCT's Custom Equalizer and Pianalyzer tools.

(E) Tunelab for the Android and iPhone
Robert Scott, Real-Time Specialties
Learn how to use TuneLab on Android and iPhone devices. This includes the new pitch-raise function and split-scale mode for dealing with poorly scaled pianos. We sample inharmonicity, examine the tuning curve, use auto note switching and auto partial selection, and manage tuning files.

(A) Advanced TuneLab ETD
Cy Shuster, RPT, New Mexico Chapter
Have you been using TuneLab for a while? Have you been wondering how to use it for pitch raises, to integrate it with aural techniques, to select alternate temperaments, or when to use split-scale mode? See how TuneLab has evolved through the years to solve an assortment of problems we face.

(E) Tuning with the Verituner
David Carpenter, RPT, Veritune, Inc.
The Verituner is now available on the high performance iPhone, iPod, and iPad devices from Apple. See up close how to take advantage of the unique tuning features of the Verituner product line. A demonstration on how to perform pitch raises, fine-tuning, setting standard pitch, temperament, custom stretch styles, and saving tunings. Learn the best practices for using the Verituner's exclusive inharmonicity measuring technology to give the best tuning on any piano with the fewest steps.
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Voicing & Concert Prep
(A) Extreme Hammers
David Stanwood, RPT, Rhode Island Chapter
Insight into tone production is gained by listening to hammers made to high/low extremes in weight, hardness, leverage, and tension. Building tone using materials such as rubber, synthetics, and other non-traditional materials brings a deeper understanding of the piano tone and its relation to the hammer.

(A) From the Point of View of the Pianist
Fred Sturm, RPT, New Mexico Chapter
As piano technicians we have our own notions of what constitutes a good, well-prepared piano. But how does the pianist feel and hear the instrument? How do different styles of regulation, voicing, condition of parts, etc., effect the musician making music? This class presents a view from the other side.

(I A) Hammer Voicing – Learning to Listen
Dan Levitan, RPT, New York City Chapter
To voice well, we have to learn how to listen: to pianos, to our colleagues, and to pianists. This class offers an original way of understanding not only how the hammer functions, but also why certain voicing practices are effective, and introduces some new needling techniques.

(I A) Steinway Concert Touch and Tone
Kent Webb, Steinway & Sons
The design of the piano defines its character. The successful regulation of touch and tone enables a pianist to develop its range of personality. In this fast-paced class, we’ll discuss the most beneficial tone and action adjustments you can make to maximize the performance dynamics of a grand, plus tips and techniques to bring out the best in the Steinway grand piano.

(I, A) Under the Lid: The Art and Craft of the Concert Piano Technician   NEW!
Steve Brady, RPT, Seattle, WA Chapter
A proven routine for working with concert pianists plus a pre-concert checklist that will help eliminate worry. Specific information and advice on tuning, regulating, and voicing for concerts are included. Material for this class is from the book by the same title.

(E) Voicing the Renner Blue Point Hammer
Rick Baldassin, RPT, Renner USA and Michael Spreeman, RPT, Ravenscroft Piano
In this class, a full set of newly installed Renner Blue Point hammers will be voiced on a Ravenscroft concert piano. You’ll see an effective, easy to assimilate, step-by-step voicing procedure that is the culmination of 70 years of combined education and experience in symphony and university concert work, piano restoration, consulting to manufacturers, and production. This new hammer allows the voicing to be achieved predictably in a very short amount of time. The class will conclude with a short performance on the Ravenscroft, allowing the class an opportunity to hear and evaluate the voicing.

(E) Voicing the Vertical Piano
Fred Sturm, RPT, New Mexico Chapter
A vertical piano can have the same evenness, range and focus of tone available to grand pianos. It requires laying a foundation with fine traveling, squaring and filing hammers, and leveling strings, along with shoulder needling, needling close to the crown, and mating hammers to strings. This class shows you how.

(E) Voicing Without Needles / Angel Shots
Zhiwei Huang, RPT & Larry Lobel, RPT, San Francisco, CA Chapter
Needles and lacquer should be “weapons of last choice.” You’ll see a demonstration of other voicing techniques that can even eliminate the need for jabbing or juicing. If you have to needle, “Angel Shots” are fast effective and long lasting. Learn to focus tone, reduce false beats, and make a spinet sound like a grand!
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RPT Exams & Exam Prep
Introduction to the RPT Written Exam
Jack Stebbins, RPT
Get some extra help preparing for the RPT written exam. Learn about the purpose of the exam and the four sections of the exam (revised 2008): tuning, regulation/action function, repairs and voicing/general information. For PTG Associate Members Only.

Taking the RPT Written Examination
Jeff Hickey, RPT
This is the class period when the ETSC offers the RPT Written Exam. If you want to take this exam, come to the room indicated on the schedule. You will need to bring your current PTG membership card with you to take the exam. Visually impaired technicians will take their exams in the ETSC office. For PTG Associate members only. Download form to pre-register for RPT Exams.

Getting Ready for the Tuning Exam
Jeff Hickey, RPT
Are you worried about what goes on inside the Tuning Exam room? If so, this is your class. We’ll cover how to practice for the exam using an ETD as a tutor, how to score yourself and how the examiners master tune the exam piano, time limits, detuning and the scoring procedures. See aural verification techniques especially useful to examinees using an ETD. Questions encouraged. For PTG Associate members only.

Introduction to the PTG Technical Exam
Ann Fell, RPT
You will be led through the requirements of the PTG technical exam and a survey of test equipment and procedures. Find out how to prepare for the exam, what tools and supplies you will need to bring to the exam site and what examinees are entitled to before, during and after the examination. Learn how to best utilize your time, improve efficiency, and cope with exam anxiety and other skills and strategies you need to successfully tackle the exam. For PTG Associate members only.

(IA) All-Day Technical Exam Prep
ETSC – Dave Davis, RPT, Ann Fell, RPT & Curtis Spiel, RPT
This class is aimed both at students well on their way to attempting the Technical Exam, and at students who are first exploring the areas covered by the exam. Students will work independently, and multiple instructors will offer demonstrations, individual assistance, tips on repairs and regulation. Students will spend as much time as they feel is needed on their chosen task(s). This class is limited to 37 participants. Download form to pre-register for this class. Fee: $88
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RPT Examiner
Becoming a CTE (Certified Tuning Examiner)
Atsundo Aikawa, RPT
Whether you are an RPT who helps give tuning exams, an RPT working toward becoming a CTE, or a current CTE, getting better at giving exams is an ongoing process. Together we will crack the manual, review procedures and scoring, and discuss issues that can arise in administering exams and master tunings.

Technical Examiner Training (Technical Examiner, Certified)
ETS Committee
Lead examiners on PTG Technical Exams must be certified as TECs (Technical Examiner, Certified) in order for the exam to be valid. We will discuss the certification requirements, demonstrate exam equipment, analyze the skills and attitudes required of a competent examiner and talk about common exam problems and issues. All RPTs with an interest in Technical Testing - veteran certified TECs, TEC trainees and RPTs just thinking about getting involved in testing are invited to attend. Active TEC trainees are required to attend in order to be certified.
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CAUT (College & University Technicians) Recommended
All Day Touch and Tone
Bösendorfer Factory Damper Installation & Regulating
Bösendorfer Factory Hammer Prep & Voicing
The Business of Concert Work
Can I Level With You?
CAUT Forum Discussion
Factory Precision Restringing
From the Point of View of the Pianist
Grand Action Rebuilding Grand Action Regulation and More
Grand Damper Systems Demystified
Hammer Voicing – Learning to Listen
Installing the Wessell, Nickel & Gross Top Action
The Jansen Artist Bench: Anatomy, Service & Repair
New Topics, Themes and Imaginings
Piano Teardown/Destringing
Steinway Action Rebuilding
Steinway Grand Service for Touch and Tone
Taming Inertia: Creating a Touch to Die For
The Ultimate Tool
Under the Lid: The Art and Craft of the Concert Piano Technician
The University Contract, a 33-Year Journey
Vertical Action Regulation: Maximum Results in Minimum Time
Vertical Regulation Plus
Voicing the Renner Blue Point Hammer

Voicing the Vertical Piano
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