Pianotech

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Consider the free piano technology curriculum, just announced by Howard Piano Supply:

https://www.howardpianoindustries.com/piano-technician-curriculum/

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Best thing to do is go get a job in the trade, and get paid as you learn. 

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

For someone on a budget, the Levitan Classic should be considered. I would look at the Kestrel as well.

Best thing to do is go get a job in the trade, and get paid as you learn. 

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Best thing to do is go get a job in the trade, and get paid as you learn. 

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

------------------------------
Benjamin Sanchez, RPT
Piano Technician / Artisan
(256) 947-9999
www.professional-piano-services.com
www.FromZeroToSixFiguresBook.com

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Yamaha just posted this the other day... you're close. Open to PTG members.

Greetings PTG Members,

Yamaha Piano Service proudly announces the next generation of piano technology learning opportunities directly from the manufacturer. Building on the legacy of our technical pioneers, we are excited to reintroduce the much-beloved Schoolhouse piano technology program.

To commemorate Yamaha's new corporate building, we invite you join to us for a full-day technical seminar in the NEW Yamaha Corp. of America headquarters, in Buena Park, California. Choose from a range of classes and learn from Yamaha's own piano technicians the modern approaches to traditional piano technology methods. Courses include aural tuning, fine grand regulation skills, and maintenance and troubleshooting techniques for Disklavier Silent Hybrid pianos!

Join us for an upcoming Yamaha Open House:

• October 20, 2025, 9:00am - 5:00pm
• March 16, 2026, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Download the attached flyer for more information and survey link. Complete the survey no later than September 8, 2025.

• Yamaha's Open House is free to attend, by invitation only.
• Space is limited, please apply for consideration.

------------------------------
PTG Administration
Kansas City KS
------------------------------

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

I newer apprentice at the place I work bought the PTA toolkit. I felt the lever on some pins and can definitely say that I would not recommend trying to use it to learn tuning. The fit of the tip on the pins was extremely poor, and my experience with cheap Chinese levers like this one is that they do not use the standard thread, so you can't upgrade to a better tip. I would highly recommend checking out Charles Faulk's levers. They are well made, light, stiff, and more affordable than many other high end levers. 

https://www.faulkpiano.com/tuning_hammers/

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

Thank you so much for the recommendations Benjamin. I'll be sure to have this as my option to buy tools I don't have in the future as I learn. I did buy the pro tool kit from PTA (Piano technician academy) so I do have a head start with what I have now. Although I'm curious to what kind of tuning lever was provided with it which I'm Extremely positive is a Watanabe tuning lever (Equivalent) given its design Especially with the shaft. Is this a good enough tuning lever to try out before moving to more expensive (and reliable) lever? It's an 11 1/2 inch lever weighing 17 oz (so a little on the heavy side) and I'm positive the steel tubing is going through the wooden handle as well.

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta CA
(951) 240-1440

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 19:58
From: Benjamin Sanchez
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Hi John-Paul,

Welcome! I've got a list of tools that I recommend to every beginner, sorted by job and when you should buy them. It also includes where to get them so you buy them for wholesale prices and make your budget stretch a lot further. If you or anyone else is interested, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to share it with you. I'd also be happy to talk privately about options to get some solid education without breaking the bank.

Good luck!

------------------------------
Benjamin Sanchez, RPT
Piano Technician / Artisan
(256) 947-9999
www.professional-piano-services.com
www.FromZeroToSixFiguresBook.com

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

I use the Fujan lever and like it. The proptn.org website under The Collection tab lets you rent a tuning lever to try them out before purchasing. Professional tuning levers get expensive very quickly. Student levers are cheaper but too flexible, which makes learning to tune/set pins harder.

------------------------------
John Ginter
La Grange TX
(832) 722-3033

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------

JP,

You do know (I hope) that this is not an "accelerating" business, but rather on the declining side of things. (I'm sure this statement is going to get me in hot water with a number of individuals).

If you look at it from the standpoint of how much time and effort it has taken you to learn to PLAY the piano proficiently, please be advised that it will be very similar in learning to tune and service pianos proficiently, AND you will need to start at the "bottom of the ladder" so to speak after you've learned the basics.  About the only other way around that is to acquire a "retiring" tech's business, but of course that usually  requires money as well, and can be "problematic" in itself for various reasons (been there done that).

Hope that doesn't disillusion you too much 😉  Just trying to be realistic. 

Peter Grey Piano Doctor 

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 08-22-2025 12:11
From: John Ginter
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

I use the Fujan lever and like it. The proptn.org website under The Collection tab lets you rent a tuning lever to try them out before purchasing. Professional tuning levers get expensive very quickly. Student levers are cheaper but too flexible, which makes learning to tune/set pins harder.

------------------------------
John Ginter
La Grange TX
(832) 722-3033

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------

Hello peter! I don't feel disillusioned in the slightest and Thank you for your words of warning when it comes to this profession. I don't expect to learn things very fast. I really like taking my time to learn a craft even if it means taking years to learn the basics and hone those skills overtime cause that's just life in general. And I really appreciate you being realistic with me Peter! Even if the business (Might) be in a bit of a decline (Depending on where you are of course but I live in Southern California close to Los angeles and San diego), I'm very much interested in the craft in general (Even if it doesn't make me a lot of money)! But because of that, I actually feel more motivated in moving forward in learning the craft. I Just joined the PTG, purchased the PTA course(including the tool kit), and plan on attending a local chapter meeting at a Steinway gallery in October with Brian Janey (He was fun to talk to!)

JP,

You do know (I hope) that this is not an "accelerating" business, but rather on the declining side of things. (I'm sure this statement is going to get me in hot water with a number of individuals).

If you look at it from the standpoint of how much time and effort it has taken you to learn to PLAY the piano proficiently, please be advised that it will be very similar in learning to tune and service pianos proficiently, AND you will need to start at the "bottom of the ladder" so to speak after you've learned the basics.  About the only other way around that is to acquire a "retiring" tech's business, but of course that usually  requires money as well, and can be "problematic" in itself for various reasons (been there done that).

Hope that doesn't disillusion you too much 😉  Just trying to be realistic. 

Peter Grey Piano Doctor 

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 08-22-2025 12:11
From: John Ginter
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

I use the Fujan lever and like it. The proptn.org website under The Collection tab lets you rent a tuning lever to try them out before purchasing. Professional tuning levers get expensive very quickly. Student levers are cheaper but too flexible, which makes learning to tune/set pins harder.

------------------------------
John Ginter
La Grange TX
(832) 722-3033

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------

Hi John-Paul! 

Just in case you are interested in aural piano tuning, take a peek at my theory playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6RYO1N8Y1hHMFSz5ybKU4zO4BflLSxKv . If you want to go down that rabbit hole, it can give you a strong foundation for learning aural tuning. 

I also do an aural tuning Q&A livestream once a month. It's the last Thursday of every month, at 8AM on odd months and 8PM on even months. You can see what topics have been covered so far here: https://www.youtube.com/@PianoTechMaggie/streams . Time markers are in the descriptions. 

It's all free. ;-) 

Welcome to the PTG! 

Maggie

Hello peter! I don't feel disillusioned in the slightest and Thank you for your words of warning when it comes to this profession. I don't expect to learn things very fast. I really like taking my time to learn a craft even if it means taking years to learn the basics and hone those skills overtime cause that's just life in general. And I really appreciate you being realistic with me Peter! Even if the business (Might) be in a bit of a decline (Depending on where you are of course but I live in Southern California close to Los angeles and San diego), I'm very much interested in the craft in general (Even if it doesn't make me a lot of money)! But because of that, I actually feel more motivated in moving forward in learning the craft. I Just joined the PTG, purchased the PTA course(including the tool kit), and plan on attending a local chapter meeting at a Steinway gallery in October with Brian Janey (He was fun to talk to!)

JP,

You do know (I hope) that this is not an "accelerating" business, but rather on the declining side of things. (I'm sure this statement is going to get me in hot water with a number of individuals).

If you look at it from the standpoint of how much time and effort it has taken you to learn to PLAY the piano proficiently, please be advised that it will be very similar in learning to tune and service pianos proficiently, AND you will need to start at the "bottom of the ladder" so to speak after you've learned the basics.  About the only other way around that is to acquire a "retiring" tech's business, but of course that usually  requires money as well, and can be "problematic" in itself for various reasons (been there done that).

Hope that doesn't disillusion you too much 😉  Just trying to be realistic. 

Peter Grey Piano Doctor 

------------------------------
Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com

Original Message:
Sent: 08-22-2025 12:11
From: John Ginter
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

I use the Fujan lever and like it. The proptn.org website under The Collection tab lets you rent a tuning lever to try them out before purchasing. Professional tuning levers get expensive very quickly. Student levers are cheaper but too flexible, which makes learning to tune/set pins harder.

------------------------------
John Ginter
La Grange TX
(832) 722-3033

Original Message:
Sent: 08-21-2025 01:08
From: John-Paul Karas
Subject: Buying tools as a beginner, Planning on Joining the PTG, and looking to find a Mentor. But don't know where to start

Greetings everyone! This is my first time posting here. (And apologies if my writing isn't the best)

I am a student that's currently in college for piano performance major (And I'm currently in my 3rd year). As my ambitions to being a a proficient pianist improved quite significantly in the past 3 years, I've grown very fond (Maybe a little obsessed), intrigued, and fulfilled with playing the piano for 3 years. My professor(which she noticed how much I really loved how the pianos worked and felt nothing but inspired of the piano technicians work at the college) decided to give me a scholarship  to cover my commute and private tuning lesson with Alan Eder at Cal arts. After meeting Alan Eder, I was very fascinated of his life story and everything about him on how he became the piano technician that he is today. I took the lesson with him in the piano shop(At Cal Arts) tuning a partially restored Baldwin Grand (from the early 1900s) and learned quite a bit from him even if it was only just one lesson. Though it has been since June 2024 when I took the lesson with and couldn't pursue it temporarily due to getting injured with tennis elbow/forearm tendonitis from overplaying (But have recovered since then!).

I've gone through quite a bit of research through the PTG Website (Which was also recommended by Alan if I remember correctly) and saw a lot of people saying that joining PTG is the way to go to finding mentor and getting recommendations on what tools and supplies I should purchase to get started. As I went through some of the PTG recommended tools/supplies page, I'm planning join the PTG, ordering a pro tool kit (Through Piano technicians academy instead the hassle of buying a lot of the individual tools that are already in the kit) and a Fujan Carbon fiber tuning lever for my beginner lever. I am having a bit of hesitance on what to do since this is my first time committing to something like this which makes me feel nervous (But also thrilled!).

I don't have a very big budget (Poor College student) but can spend at most 5,000 usd. I unforunately can't afford the loans to attend piano tech schools like North bennett street school or anything else outside the state and country. Is there a piano technician that could help guide me in the right direction on what I should do? I don't want to make a lot of mistakes buying the wrong things due to my budget. I also live in Murrieta, CA incase if people wanted to know.

If contacting me is preferred/desired, my contact info is right here if you want to send a voice message, text, call, or shoot me an email!

Email: karasjp4u@gmail.com

Phone:(951)-240-1440

------------------------------
John-Paul Karas
Murrieta, CA
Phone:(951) 240-1440 Email:karasjp4u@gmail.com
Riverside City College
------------------------------