My first annual convention made an enormous impact on me. It was in 2000, in the Washington, D.C. area, and coincided with the Smithsonian's 300th anniversary of the piano's invention. I was still considering whether or not to change careers, and was studying informally.
At the convention, I learned the amazing depth of this profession, from woodworking and finish work, to action geometry and physics, through the mathematics of tuning. The hundreds of people sharing these passions all in one place was impressive, and the camaraderie was enveloping. Being able to handle and try out dozens of different tools was a big benefit.
I urge you to set the goal of passing the RPT tests. The earlier you do this in your career, the more it will pay off for you. An enormous amount of work has been put in to making them reasonable and fair, and tremendous effort goes into giving them (thank you, examiners!). They tell you which areas you're solid in, and which ares you need to focus on. I particularly recommend the classes which are the introduction to the written, tuning, and technical exams, to give you an idea of what your next goals should be.
We've all started from square one at some point, and we all remember being stumped by a particular problem. The casual conversations between classes can be just as valuable. Our profession has a tradition of generosity and helpfulness that is unique, and I'm grateful for it.
I've also found myself in classes way over my head. We always have classes useful to anyone, and many tailored just for beginners, including my own "Aural Tuning 101", which has absolutely no prerequisites.
In any case, stop by the Institute Office at the convention, and any of us will be glad to help you get the most out of your experience.
--Cy--
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Cy Shuster, RPT
Albuquerque, NM
Associate Director, Denver 2015 Technical Institute
http://www.shusterpiano.com -------------------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 03-26-2015 01:31
From: Elizabeth Hoenig
Subject: New member considering attending convention for the first time
I am currently about half-way through my piano technician's course and am doing well (so far). I hope to be close to completion of the course by July. Given my situation, I am wondering if it is worthwhile for me to attend this year's convention. I realize that there are classes for different experience levels (everyone, basic, intermediate, advanced), but am concerned that the information might be over my head at this point. Should I attend this year or wait until next year when I have more experience?
Thank you for your help and input.
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Elizabeth Hoenig
Winterset IA
515-770-1221
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