And I am not at all referring to a medication proportioner, trader or even a leatherworker, (you will find explanations of these at the bottom of the article 😉 ) professions that are disappearing due to their diminishing usefulness. But a highly specialised profession, closely linked to pianos and still very much in demand despite having been established around 200 years ago. Do you already know what profession this is about? No, we will not be writing about pianists here, but about piano tuning school.
What does a piano technician do?
Well, they are people who deal, as the name of their profession indicates, with building upright and and grand pianos and repairing and restoring or tuning them. A piano is a rather complex instrument consisting of over 12,000 parts and can weigh up to half a tonne. The person who makes it or later maintains it must also have the necessary training and skills. These can be acquired at one of the three piano schools in the world which train piano tuning technicians. One of piano tuning school is located in Kalisz. Our representative Anna went there to talk to its representative Marcin Kaftanowicz about this elite profession.
Why choose TBF Kalisz?
This is a typical vocational secondary school, where two qualifications are pursued during the five years of study: piano building and restoration, and piano tuning and correction. After passing the professional examinations in both qualifications, the graduate is awarded the title of upright and grand piano construction and tuning technician.
We have excellent instructors, internships take place in renowned piano production and restoration companies. The school has its own technical workshop equipped with all the necessary equipment and tools for practical vocational training. It is a school with a long tradition and rich history. In addition to a unique, well-paid profession, it also gives you a lifelong membership that lets you join and meet a wonderful group of people. The TeBeFiaks, who have a graduates reunion every five years. In addition to learning their profession, i.e. working on instruments, they can develop artistically by participating in academies, competitions or concerts inside and outside the school. They are an amazing group of people whose friendships continue even after graduation.
What are the benefits of being a piano tuner?
Apart from a decent salary, this profession is certainly a passionate job. Not only does it allow one to come into contact with wonderful instruments. But also to meet many exceptional people who are not indifferent to music. And preparing a piano, i.e. tuning or adjusting it in a private home or in a grand concert hall. Thats rings great satisfaction in accomplishing some kind of artistic work.
Does a piano technician find it difficult to find a job after graduation?
No, provided they do their work diligently. They usually start with small adjustments or tunings. And end up working in music academies or setting up their own company. They also have no problems finding employment abroad.
Is being a piano tuner/technician a prestigious profession? Why?
A unique profession, from the only school in Poland. Undoubtedly elitist, bringing together a circle of people who are technically gifted but also artistically sensitive.
What qualities do you need to have to come to piano tuning school?
Well, you just have to be open to new experiences… But what really counts in learning this profession is accuracy, patience and commitment. There used to be entrance exams including Polish, maths, hearing, sense of rhythm and singing skills. That was back in my day, 30 years ago. Nowadays you can get into the school without exams.
Would a non-musically gifted person find their way into TBF?
Music education starts from the very beginning. That is, notes and playing the piano. Depending on the student’s level, it is either learning from scratch or continuing and developing the skills they already have.
And here are a few more words about a student from Kalisz TBF
So, are there any new future grand and upright piano tuning technicians here? You can find out more about recruitment and about the school itself on their website, FB or TikTok.
Medication proportioner - a pharmacy worker involved in measuring the correct portions of medication for patients Trader - a person involved in short-term trading in large financial institutions Leatherworker - a person who repairs leather goods e.g. belts, bags, wallets etc.