My Training and Experience
Piano Technicians Guild
If you inquire about the background of a piano technician, you should be aware of the following distinctions regarding membership in the Piano Technicians Guild (PTG).
PTG Member - Anyone who has paid dues to the organization, whether a tuner or not.
RPT (Registered Piano Technician) - a member who has also taken and passed three exams: a written exam, an exam to demonstrate proficiency in tuning, and one to demonstrate skills in repair and regulation of the mechanical parts of the piano. If the technician uses an electronic device as an aid in tuning, s/he must demonstrate a basic skill level in tuning aurally as well.
I have passed the written, tuning and technical exams and have received the Registered Piano Technician designation.
There are many excellent piano technicians who have not taken these tests. Taking the tests demonstrates a standardized level of proficiency.
More information about the PTG is at their website, www.ptg.org