Piano Technician

Just as every pianist needs a piano, every piano needs the regular attention of a piano technician. Piano technicians use their expert knowledge of the construction and design of the instrument to keep it in the best playing condition possible and make any repairs needed. In addition to developing the skills necessary to assess and adjust the tuning of various styles of pianos, technicians also study the mechanical action of the instrument. Whether a key lever needs adjustment, a hammer’s felt needs repadding, or a pedal is not working as intended, piano technicians are able to bring a piano back to its optimal playing state.

Most technicians learn the necessary skills for this trade through apprenticeship under an expert technician. While no degree or certification is required for this work, certification by professional groups like the Piano Technicians Guild can be helpful toward finding clients and providing proof of your skill level.

Pianists with a passion for hands-on work and learning a wide variety of technical skills can make excellent technicians. A pianist’s performance experience and ear training lend themselves to understanding what a piano should feel like at its best when assessing the instrument. This career most often begins as a side gig to something like performance, but can develop into its own career by developing a clientele and reputation.