Pianotech

  • 1.  Factory Apprentice

    Posted 08-04-2019 18:09
    Has anyone recently (10 years) gone through any factory apprentice program? I see that Steinway has such a position that is a 2 year program.

    What are these programs like?

    I'm looking for formal education in piano technology and am currently building funds to do so. I considered NBSS, but that is expensive. I am considering North Texas School by Dave Conte. I am considering factory apprentice programs as well if there are others available. I've considered Piano Technician's Academy but have been told I'd do better off elsewhere. I'm just keeping my options open before considering relocating for school.

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    Cobrun Sells
    cobrun94@yahoo.com
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  • 2.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-04-2019 21:20
    Hi Cobrun,

    I know Yamaha offers a week long training seminar at their facility in Buena Park, CA. While it's not exactly an apprenticeship program, I've heard really good things about it from a friend who is not easily impressed. The only drawback is, in my understanding you have to be recommended by a Yamaha dealership.

    Also consider the Renner Academy. I just went though the week long program they offer, and I must say I'm impressed! That's the report I get from everyone I talk though who went though the Academy. You can call Renner for more details.

    I know these aren't exactly what you're looking for, but they are options. They cost a little money, but they are in-person, hands on training. Hope this helps,

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    Benjamin Sanchez, RPT
    Piano Technician / Artisan
    (805) 315-8050
    www.professional-piano-services.com
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-04-2019 22:52
    Mr. Sells,
    I spent 7 1/2 years working for Steinway and Sons in the 1990's. There was no formal apprentice program at that time but I regard those years as one of the 3 seven year long apprenticeships I have been blessed to have had. Were I starting out today I would crawl on my hands and knees across broken glass all the way from New Mexico to New York for the opportunity to work in that factory and be trained by those people. I have a young friend from South Florida who has been working there for the last year or so and I am awed by the progress he has made as a technician and as a person. In my own case I moved from rural Georgia to Manhattan for 12 dollars an hour with no guarantee of success past the 90 day trial period. It was the best gamble I ever took.

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    Karl Roeder
    Pompano Beach FL
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-05-2019 00:41
    Hey Cobrun,

    What Steinway is offering is a brand new full time 2 year program that I think differs from the others mentioned in two distinct ways.

    The Steinway program is a paid apprenticeship whereas the others are tuition based, and the Steinway program is designed to create a pipeline for entry level craftspeople to become skilled factory workers whereas the others are geared towards independent piano service professionals. 

    The two year apprenticeship being offered is definitely attractive if you see yourself calling New York City your home and working in the Astoria factory.

    It's an incredible opportunity that I wish was available when I was getting my career started.

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    Daniel DeBiasio
    Brooklyn, NY
    646.801.8863
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-05-2019 16:42
    Oberlin College offers a 2 year program that costs about the same as NBSS, it's Steinway centric. https://www.oberlin.edu/piano-technology

    You might make inquiries to Mason & Hamlin as well. 


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    Steven Rosenthal
    Honolulu HI
    808-521-7129
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    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Posted 08-05-2019 17:36
    I believe Oberlin's is a Master's program. I have not even completed a bachelor's.



    Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone



    Original Message


  • 7.  RE: Factory Apprentice

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 08-05-2019 18:12
    Cobrun, actually it is an "Artist Diploma", while they ask for a bachelor of music degree, they allow for those "...who have acquired extensive musical experience or training through institutional or private studies or through unusual performing experiences..."
    I'm pretty sure they would consider your previous studies and professional practice. They are looking for technicians at an intermediate level to begin, that's generally not found in BM studies.

    https://www.oberlin.edu/admissions-and-aid/conservatory/artist-diploma-applicants


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    Steven Rosenthal
    Honolulu HI
    808-521-7129
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    Original Message