CAUT

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Congratulations Jim. Sounds perfect, except for the various ailments. Not sure where the "sell-out" comes in, unless your original plan entailed being carried away from an unfinished tuning.
-------------------------------------------
David Skolnik
Hastings-on-Hudson NY
914-231-7565
-------------------------------------------



Original Message:
Sent: 9/30/2014 11:07:09 AM
From: jim_busby@byu.edu
Subject: Last day at BYU

All, FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits. As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work. last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU. Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears. Best, Jim p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired. ------------------------------------------- James Busby Mt Pleasant UT 801-422-3400 -------------------------------------------

Hi Jim,

Congratulations and best of luck to you!  I'm starting to wonder about these things myself but I don't have a great plan B like you.  Your post gives me food for thought.

I understand my former student Lana visited your shop there at BYU recently!

Chris

-------------------------------------------
Christopher Purdy, RPT
Piano Technician
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132
(740) 590-3842
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Thanks Chris,

Yes she did, but I missed her. Keith showed her around.

I think CAUTs should know that their skills are very valuable. A CAUT experience (IMO) makes you a much better tech, having dealt with concert halls and practice rooms as well.

Best,
Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:28
From: Christopher Purdy
Subject: Last day at BYU

Hi Jim,

Congratulations and best of luck to you!  I'm starting to wonder about these things myself but I don't have a great plan B like you.  Your post gives me food for thought.

I understand my former student Lana visited your shop there at BYU recently!

Chris

-------------------------------------------
Christopher Purdy, RPT
Piano Technician
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132
(740) 590-3842
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Completely agree, Jim. And I also congratulate you! (You may have to go into some sort of "hiding" in order to keep customers who will now think you now have time for them, under "control"!)
😳😳
Best for sure! Kevin

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------



Original Message:
Sent: 9/30/2014 11:39:16 AM
From: jim_busby@byu.edu
Subject: RE: Last day at BYU

Thanks Chris, Yes she did, but I missed her. Keith showed her around. I think CAUTs should know that their skills are very valuable. A CAUT experience (IMO) makes you a much better tech, having dealt with concert halls and practice rooms as well. Best, Jim ------------------------------------------- James Busby Mt Pleasant UT 801-422-3400 -------------------------------------------
Original Message: Sent: 09-30-2014 11:28 From: Christopher Purdy Subject: Last day at BYU Hi Jim, Congratulations and best of luck to you!  I'm starting to wonder about these things myself but I don't have a great plan B like you.  Your post gives me food for thought. I understand my former student Lana visited your shop there at BYU recently! Chris ------------------------------------------- Christopher Purdy, RPT Piano Technician Middle Tennessee State University Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132 (740) 590-3842 -------------------------------------------
Original Message: Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07 From: James Busby Subject: Last day at BYU All, FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits. As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work. last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU. Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears. Best, Jim p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired. ------------------------------------------- James Busby Mt Pleasant UT 801-422-3400 -------------------------------------------

Original Message------

Hi Jim,

Congratulations and best of luck to you!  I'm starting to wonder about these things myself but I don't have a great plan B like you.  Your post gives me food for thought.

I understand my former student Lana visited your shop there at BYU recently!

Chris

-------------------------------------------
Christopher Purdy, RPT
Piano Technician
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132
(740) 590-3842
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Sounds like a great plan for you.  Congrats on getting to a slower pace! You deserve it.  So, will BYU hire 3 more techs to take your place??

Good luck in your new digs.



-------------------------------------------
Paul T. Williams RPT
Director of Piano Services
School of Music
813 Assembly St
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC 29208
pwilliams@mozart.sc.edu
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------



Original Message:
Sent: 9/30/2014 12:44:36 PM
From: pwilliams@mozart.sc.edu
Subject: RE: Last day at BYU

Sounds like a great plan for you.  Congrats on getting to a slower pace! You deserve it.  So, will BYU hire 3 more techs to take your place?? Good luck in your new digs. ------------------------------------------- Paul T. Williams RPT Director of Piano Services School of Music 813 Assembly St University of South Carolina Columbia, SC 29208 pwilliams@mozart.sc.edu -------------------------------------------
Original Message: Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07 From: James Busby Subject: Last day at BYU All, FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits. As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work. last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU. Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears. Best, Jim p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired. ------------------------------------------- James Busby Mt Pleasant UT 801-422-3400 -------------------------------------------

Thanks Kevin, Paul, Scott,

Well... it's kind of fun to say that Rick is replacing me!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:47
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: Last day at BYU

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------

Jim,

As one of the many who learned under your tutelage and is now part of CAUT myself at a university, I can safely say everything I know, I know from you (and Keith Kopp!).  My time at BYU with you has been priceless.  THANK YOU!!!

-------------------------------------------
Samuel Yamamoto
Lethbridge AB
403-795-2705
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:52
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Kevin, Paul, Scott,

Well... it's kind of fun to say that Rick is replacing me!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:47
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: Last day at BYU

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------

Thanks Sam!

Jeff Shumway just came down and told me there was a problem with a piano in the recital hall. I went up with him and the whole music faculty and all the piano majors were there for a surprise party! (I tied to avoid making a big deal out of leaving)

Man, I hate to leave all my friends. This has been the best place to work!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 14:43
From: Samuel Yamamoto
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

As one of the many who learned under your tutelage and is now part of CAUT myself at a university, I can safely say everything I know, I know from you (and Keith Kopp!).  My time at BYU with you has been priceless.  THANK YOU!!!

-------------------------------------------
Samuel Yamamoto
Lethbridge AB
403-795-2705
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:52
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Kevin, Paul, Scott,

Well... it's kind of fun to say that Rick is replacing me!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:47
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: Last day at BYU

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------

Original Message------

Thanks Sam!

Jeff Shumway just came down and told me there was a problem with a piano in the recital hall. I went up with him and the whole music faculty and all the piano majors were there for a surprise party! (I tied to avoid making a big deal out of leaving)

Man, I hate to leave all my friends. This has been the best place to work!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 14:43
From: Samuel Yamamoto
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

As one of the many who learned under your tutelage and is now part of CAUT myself at a university, I can safely say everything I know, I know from you (and Keith Kopp!).  My time at BYU with you has been priceless.  THANK YOU!!!

-------------------------------------------
Samuel Yamamoto
Lethbridge AB
403-795-2705
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:52
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Kevin, Paul, Scott,

Well... it's kind of fun to say that Rick is replacing me!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:47
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: Last day at BYU

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------

And a surprise party ... good till the last drop.

Since you've had so many joint operations and the tendonitis, no one could accuse you of malingering or selfishness in moving on. You really gave your all. Sometimes just the chance to REST is golden.

Well done. I hope you can enjoy your new life working on the good stuff, decently paid, for many years.

-------------------------------------------
Susan Kline
Philomath, Oregon

-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 14:57
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Sam!

Jeff Shumway just came down and told me there was a problem with a piano in the recital hall. I went up with him and the whole music faculty and all the piano majors were there for a surprise party! (I tied to avoid making a big deal out of leaving)

Man, I hate to leave all my friends. This has been the best place to work!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 14:43
From: Samuel Yamamoto
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

As one of the many who learned under your tutelage and is now part of CAUT myself at a university, I can safely say everything I know, I know from you (and Keith Kopp!).  My time at BYU with you has been priceless.  THANK YOU!!!

-------------------------------------------
Samuel Yamamoto
Lethbridge AB
403-795-2705
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:52
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Kevin, Paul, Scott,

Well... it's kind of fun to say that Rick is replacing me!

Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 12:47
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: Last day at BYU

I was just thinking the same thing, Paul!! At LEAST 3!
😱

-------------------------------------------
Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Lubbock TX
806-778-3962
-------------------------------------------

Original Message------

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Thanks Debbie, and Kent, all.

I'm walking out the door right after this email. Feels really weird. A sad happiness, or a happy sadness? I can't think about it too much or I'll eat a whole box of comfort ice cream...

Cheers!

Best,
Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 16:40
From: Debbie Cyr
Subject: Last day at BYU

Congratulations Jim!  

Enjoy some of your "time off"!!

Debbie Cyr

Registered Piano Technician 

508-202-2862 cell

Sent from my iPhone

Original Message------

Thanks Debbie, and Kent, all.

I'm walking out the door right after this email. Feels really weird. A sad happiness, or a happy sadness? I can't think about it too much or I'll eat a whole box of comfort ice cream...

Cheers!

Best,
Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 16:40
From: Debbie Cyr
Subject: Last day at BYU

Congratulations Jim!  

Enjoy some of your "time off"!!

Debbie Cyr

Registered Piano Technician 

508-202-2862 cell

Sent from my iPhone

Jim, with the schedule you've been keeping, you need those calories!  Go for it.
Congratulations, job well done.  Ruth

-------------------------------------------
Ruth Zeiner
ruth@alliedpiano.com
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 16:59
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

Thanks Debbie, and Kent, all.

I'm walking out the door right after this email. Feels really weird. A sad happiness, or a happy sadness? I can't think about it too much or I'll eat a whole box of comfort ice cream...

Cheers!

Best,
Jim

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
 

Jim-
Not selling out, but getting out while there is enough of you left to work less and still make a living. Very happy for you and your family and your body!

Best of luck-

David

-------------------------------------------
David Brown
Dallas TX
214-288-9413
-------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------

Jim,

If there were a Hall of Fame for CAUTs, you would definitely be in it!

And about your closing remark: Selling out? Naw. Matriculating is more like it. You are moving on to what sounds like a good  situation. And if we don't take care of our selves, who will?

All the best, and Congratulations,

-------------------------------------------
Alan Eder, RPT
Herb Alpert School of Music
California Institute of the Arts
Valencia, CA
661.904.6483
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Congratulations Jim.  

Not selling out, but honestly cashing in.  You gave your all to subsidize a great music department.  You don't need to subsidize the dealer, it's a win win situation.  You make money and he makes money.  Life is good.  Just hope your body can hold together for those big paydays;--)

Be well,
Carl

-------------------------------------------
Carl Lieberman
RPT
Venice CA
310-392-2771
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 17:59
From: Alan Eder
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

If there were a Hall of Fame for CAUTs, you would definitely be in it!

And about your closing remark: Selling out? Naw. Matriculating is more like it. You are moving on to what sounds like a good  situation. And if we don't take care of our selves, who will?

All the best, and Congratulations,

-------------------------------------------
Alan Eder, RPT
Herb Alpert School of Music
California Institute of the Arts
Valencia, CA
661.904.6483
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Congratulations on your "retirement", Jim.  Thanks for sharing some of the details with us.  We'll look forward to hearing more from you in your new situation.  

-------------------------------------------
Gary Bruce, RPT
Bruce Piano Service
Edmond, OK
405-413-TUNE
www.brucepiano.com
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 20:37
From: Carl Lieberman
Subject: Last day at BYU

Congratulations Jim.  

Not selling out, but honestly cashing in.  You gave your all to subsidize a great music department.  You don't need to subsidize the dealer, it's a win win situation.  You make money and he makes money.  Life is good.  Just hope your body can hold together for those big paydays;--)

Be well,
Carl

-------------------------------------------
Carl Lieberman
RPT
Venice CA
310-392-2771
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 17:59
From: Alan Eder
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

If there were a Hall of Fame for CAUTs, you would definitely be in it!

And about your closing remark: Selling out? Naw. Matriculating is more like it. You are moving on to what sounds like a good  situation. And if we don't take care of our selves, who will?

All the best, and Congratulations,

-------------------------------------------
Alan Eder, RPT
Herb Alpert School of Music
California Institute of the Arts
Valencia, CA
661.904.6483
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

We should at least nominate Jim for a Hall of Fame...unless he's already there with all honors! I'll write a letter of recommendation.

-------------------------------------------
Paul T. Williams RPT
Director of Piano Services
School of Music
813 Assembly St
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC 29208
pwilliams@mozart.sc.edu
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 17:59
From: Alan Eder
Subject: Last day at BYU

Jim,

If there were a Hall of Fame for CAUTs, you would definitely be in it!

And about your closing remark: Selling out? Naw. Matriculating is more like it. You are moving on to what sounds like a good  situation. And if we don't take care of our selves, who will?

All the best, and Congratulations,

-------------------------------------------
Alan Eder, RPT
Herb Alpert School of Music
California Institute of the Arts
Valencia, CA
661.904.6483
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------

Hey Jim, Congratulations! Speaking from experience, retiring from the high pressure CAUT world is a good thing and I know you will enjoy it. (Yes, I had a few of those operations myself!) Listen to Richard West though, getting busy can really sneak up on you. Don ------------------------------------------- [Don] [McKechnie,] [RPT] [Piano Technician] [dmckech@ithaca.edu] [Home 607.277.7112] -------------------------------------------
Original Message: Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07 From: James Busby Subject: Last day at BYU All, FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits. As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work. last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU. Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears. Best, Jim p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired. ------------------------------------------- James Busby Mt Pleasant UT 801-422-3400 -------------------------------------------

Congrats to you and make sure you put your feet up on the bench when you get there!!

:}
Michelle
-------------------------------------------
Michelle Stranges
Assistant Piano Technician, Ithaca College
mstranges@ithaca.edu
Ithaca, NY
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-30-2014 11:07
From: James Busby
Subject: Last day at BYU

All,

FWIW, this will be my last day at BYU. I'm taking early retirement. Since many of you know me I thought I should let you know that I'm not bailing out of CAUT life; I'll still be the technician at Snow College (37 pianos, "Steinway school", 1 day per week) but I've been given a very good offer by a local music store which I've decided I couldn't pass up. I will be working on high end pianos in two large stores, and will only work 2 days a week. In those 2 days I will actually be earning more than I earned here at BYU. By retiring, instead of quitting, I will have insurance for the rest of my life, and many other benefits from BYU. My wife and I will be able to take classes for free as long as we want (Journalism degree Ed!) and there are many more benefits.

As many of you know I have burned the candle at both ends for many years. 60-80 hours a week, depending on concert schedules. I have had both knees, both shoulders, and both wrists operated on. Now my elbows have extreme tendinitis. Surgery isn't needed, luckily, but the doctors told me I MUST slow down. No more 5-10(!) tunings a day. In my new job I will not be doing floor tunings, but will be doing voicing, fine regulation, touch weighting, and generally high end work.

last month I helped the dealer by taking a B that was unplayable and touchweighting it, etc.. The next week he sold the piano for nearly 20K more than he was asking the week earlier. This is the kind of work we regularly do in CAUT that is a very valuable to dealers. This is only one example of pianos that he has sold  immediately after I had prepped, or otherwise done what I would do on any grand here at BYU.

Yes, to a certain degree I'm selling out, but there comes a time when most of us need to shift gears. Just thought you all should know. I ain't dead, but just shifting gears.

Best,
Jim

p.s. What will I be doing in my spare time? You'll hear more from me in Denver next summer! Oh, and Rick Baldassin is contracted to take over for a month or so until someone permanent can be hired.

-------------------------------------------
James Busby
Mt Pleasant UT
801-422-3400
-------------------------------------------