How I became a professional piano tuner

During my training as an organ builder and tuner, I learned a great deal about the intricacies of instrument making, especially in the areas of high-class carpentry and precise action work. Meanwhile my ear was being trained in the art and craft of tuning. It's an art because judgment on subtleties of pitch and timbre are involved. And it's a craft because the tuner of either instrument is also a mechanic.

 

For example, pulling a piano into tune requires the ability to increase or decrease, by tiny steps, 200 metal wires under high tension. This is done by hand, note by note, with a 'lever socket' or wrench. To ensure an instrument remains in tune for as long as possible, each turn of the lever needs to be careful and accurate. As there are three strings per note on most keys, this skill alone takes time, patience and experience.

 

West Yorkshire has been my home for nearly 30 years and my link with the organ continues with my work for a local company, Wood Pipe Organ Builders, whose portfolio includes a number of important concert and cathedral organs.

 

Outside work, I enjoy singing from time to time. I was in a church choir when I was young and a few years ago I spent an enjoyable period singing bass in the choir at Leeds Cathedral.

 

When I go to tune a piano, customers will often ask if can play – and I tell them that it was the piano that brought me into this job. I passed Grade 8 when I was in my teens – but I'm afraid I don't play very much these days. When I'm at the keyboard, it's usually with a lever socket in my hand!