Piano Tech Radio Hour Piano Technicians Masterclasses

In this podcast episode, we are joined by Mark Cerisano, a seasoned piano tuner and educator who’s making significant contributions to the field of piano technology. He is known for creating the Go Ape System for accurate and efficient piano tuning and has shared his expertise globally through publications and teaching at the International Piano Technician School (IPTS).
Mark's background includes engineering, teaching music in high school, being a professional musician, authoring four books on piano tuning, online content, and live lectures.
The discussion covers Mark’s journey from studying jazz at McGill University to becoming an engineer turned musical maestro. We delve into how he combines precision with musicality, the importance of clean unisons whether tuning by ear or using devices, auditory illusions that can deceive even experienced ears, and more about his approach to shaping sound quality.
We also explore advanced concepts like ensuring all partials decay uniformly without resurgence to achieve perfect harmony. Mark shares about tools like Oceanaudio, which allow for nuanced listening and analysis of sounds.
The conversation touches upon different approaches to tuning pianos—intuitive versus electronic—and emphasizes learning through exploration before choosing one’s tools. The importance of understanding physics in achieving musical stability is highlighted alongside embracing varied perspectives.
Looking ahead at the industry's future demands higher standards of tuning precision due to musicians' discerning ears. This necessitates training technicians capable of delivering such exactitude—an endeavor that Mark aims to address through IPTS which also focuses on providing employment opportunities post-education.
For new technicians or graduates seeking guidance, Mark aims to develop elegant and objective feedback mechanisms, using tools like band pass filters, to provide evidence of technical understanding. 
Listeners interested in following Mark's work can find free resources on https://internationalpianotechniciansschool.com/ as well as interactive content on his public Facebook group and YouTube channel.
About Mark Cerisano:Mark Cerisano has been tuning pianos since 2000 and teaching people how to tune, repair, and regulate pianos since 2005, and most recently through the International Piano Technicians School found at https://IPTS.online. He brings to the job of training technicians his experience as a mechanical engineer, a high school teacher of music, math, and other subjects, his experience as a professional musician, and his experience as a professional piano technician.
Since developing his unique tuning system which he calls the Go A.P.E. System for more Accurate, Precise, and Efficient piano tunings, he has been published multiple times in the Piano Technicians Journal, given multiple online classes in over a dozen other countries around the world, and has had four books published on piano tuning. He has been a presenter at the annual PTG convention and technical Institute in Denver Colorado in 2015 and will be presenting two classes on his unique tuning system in Reno Nevada in the summer of 2024.
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Subscribe to radio hour for just $16/mo and get direct access to each weeks private zoom call, as well as all the archival recordings of hundreds of episodes in our member area. Join using by visiting https://bit.ly/joinptrh

Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to service concert pianos for the finest performer

In this podcast episode, we explore the captivating world of piano restoration with a focus on Chris Brown’s recent project involving an 1889 Steinway D. This historic piano underwent significant transformations including new soundboards and modernized parts while retaining its legacy.
Chris delves into the technical aspects of regulation, discussing the challenges of integrating contemporary components with historical dimensions. He emphasizes the importance of meticulous measurements and adjustments to accommodate changes in height for optimal playability.
The conversation also touches upon balancing a customer’s available investment against preserving original aspects of the instrument. Chris shares how even a prestigious brand like Steinway has evolved over time to meet public and artist demands. Chris shares his preference for using copper weights instead of traditional lead for key weighting. Health effects of handling lead can be significant and irreversible, so copper offers a blend of modern sensibilities with classic care.
Furthermore, Chris recounts his experiences as a university technician dealing with neglected pianos and highlights the necessity for technicians to be versatile within budget constraints. He stresses understanding the complexities of a hammer’s behavior as it arcs toward the string and changes throughout a hammer’s usable life.
If you enjoy this session, make sure to check out the Chris Brown RPT YouTube channel and Grand Work Tools blog series to dive deeper.
About Chris Brown:Chris Brown RPT started work as a piano technician in 1977. A graduate of North Bennet Street School, he has worn many hats in his career: college technician, concert tuner, rebuilder, private customer piano-care provider, teacher. And now, designer, engineer, and manufacturer.

In 2005, Chris officially specialized in grand regulation and rebuilding and started work on the tools and protocols that have become the Grandwork System.
Good regulations benefit customer, technician, dealer, and manufacturer. With the Grandwork System, Chris has reduced the experience needed to successfully regulate grand pianos. His goals are to help those entering the trade and those hiring them, enhancing work for both beginners and experienced technicians.
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Subscribe to radio hour for just $16/mo and get direct access to each weeks private zoom call, as well as all the archival recordings of hundreds of episodes in our member area. Join using by visiting https://bit.ly/joinptrh

Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to service concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/

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Gain insights into Jim's experiences with music icons and the lessons he's learned along the way. Beyond rubbing shoulders with legends, he learned valuable lessons from them about music and life.
Explore how musical trends and tech advancements shape piano performance and recording. Jim was at the forefront of groundbreaking midi technology. Understand the importance of nurturing young talent and how it influenced Jim's journey. You won’t believe how far music can take you.
Discover the fascinating connection between piano technology and creative expression. Jim shares captivating encounters with music legends. From singing with Paul McCartney to adventures with Dan Fogelberg, Jim's journey is astounding to tune in to.
Here’s a little bit about our guest Jim Wilson:
Jim Wilson's career is nothing short of legendary. From humble beginnings as a piano tech, he went on to serve and collaborate with some of the most iconic names in the music industry. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to groundbreaking insights, Jim's experiences are as enlightening as they are entertaining.
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/
Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.
Instagram -Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) 
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Tune in to hear the maestro David Amram sharing unheard stories from his encounters with pianos and pianists across the globe, alongside recent collaborations with other PTRH community members. Explore the inspirations behind his most celebrated piano compositions.

This session is a rare opportunity to hear directly from a composer who has not only created an incredible body of work but has lived through some of the most pivotal moments in musical history. Whether you're a lifelong fan, a music scholar, or someone who appreciates the profound beauty of piano music, this podcast promises to be an enriching experience.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey through the life and music of David Amram. 
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/
Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.
Instagram -Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) 
FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook
Spotify - Piano Tech Radio Hour | Podcast on Spotify

In today's episode, we started with touching tributes to Tanya Ragir and Joe Patrych, honoring their legacies in our community. Additionally, Donna shared about the legacy of Joe Patrych, a cherished member of the New York piano community whose unexpected departure in December deeply affected so many. Donna Weng, moved by Joe's passing, shared heartfelt reflections on his life and contributions. Joe's presence in the Greater New York piano community was profound. He left behind a legacy of excellence in music production and sound engineering. Donna's tribute to Joe set the stage for a session filled with gratitude, remembrance, and celebration of his impactful life.

As we transitioned into the session's discussions, Donna shared updates on her ongoing projects and collaborations. She spoke about her efforts to harness the power of music and poetry to address mental health challenges among children and teens. She draws inspiration from the famed "Carnival of the Animals," delivering its spirit in present-day forms. Donna's commitment to using art as a tool for healing and expression was truly inspiring, and we look forward to supporting her upcoming performance. We also got a sneak peek of "Never Fade Away," Donna's film which was showcased at Times Square in honor of AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Heritage Month. The film, depicting her immigrant father's life-changing encounter with music, has garnered acclaim at numerous film festivals worldwide. Additionally, Donna shared about her induction into the Steinway and Sons Teacher Hall of Fame, reflecting on her teaching experience and the significance of this recognition.
Donna graciously shared personal reflections on her journey within the piano world, delving into the transformative experiences that have sculpted her identity as both an artist and educator. Through her narrative, she underscored the profound impact of resilience, the strength of community, and the boundless potential of artistic expression to bridge divides and foster profound connections.

As the session concluded, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in “Quiet Poems”,  three solo piano pieces by Donna's friend Kim Sherman, complemented by a visually captivating video by Karl Sonnenberg. Departing from classical norms, it highlights the interplay of sound and silence, prompting reflection on what lies between the notes.
Here’s a little bit about our guest Donna Weng Friedman: 
Award winning pianist Donna Weng Friedman enjoys a distinguished career as a soloist, chamber musician, educator, curator, producer, filmmaker and app developer. She was inducted into the Steinway & Sons Teacher Hall of Fame on October 5th, 2023, for her "passionate commitment to teaching and inspiring young people in music" - Gavin English, President of Steinway & Sons Americas.
Donna wrote, directed and produced the award winning documentary short, NEVER FADE AWAY featuring  Chun Wai Chan, the first principal dancer of Chinese descent in New York City Ballet’s 75-year history.
Donna is the inaugural winner of the Women Who Innovate Grant 2023, awarded by the International Alliance for Women in Music, Global Initiatives committee for her "impactful and meaningful" work.
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/
Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Masterclass. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single livestreams, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills such as:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.
Instagram -Piano Technicians Maste

In this group discussion, Eathan talks about the annual PTM convention and the release of a lecture by David Stanwood who delivers a lecture about piano touch and tone. It’s a really interesting lecture and one key takeaway was about wool and its role in the sound of the piano. The properties of wool are really special for the creation of piano hammers and the tone we want to get out of them. The lecture also touches on some important themes like voicing, components and the hammer - strike point, shoulders, the different layers, felt - and how they affect the different sounds you want to get out of the hammer. 

Another interesting lecture that addresses the importance of wool in pianos is by Alex Kirsten. He talks in great detail about the kind of wool they use and how it is processed, the special requests they give at Steingraber to the hammer makers to create a hammer that would produce the sound they appreciate the most. 

A subscription to Piano Technicians Masterclasses will give you access to these lectures and more so you can learn about the wool and its importance in sound, tune in now to find out more! 
Here’s a little bit about our host:

Eathan Janney:

Eathan has 20 years of experience as a piano technician. He studied with Dave Miller, the staff piano technician for the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, New Jersey.

Dave Carpenter, the inventor of the Verituner electronic tuning device, provided mentorship for Eathan in Chicago. Eathan also worked with Ken Eschete and Bill Schwarts, the staff piano technicians at Northwestern University in Chicago.

In 2009, he founded Floating Piano Factory of New York, a company that allows piano technicians to move from Apprentice to Craftsman level while offering value pricing to clients as technicians progress toward mastery. In 2017 he founded Piano Technicians Masterclasses, an online project designed to offer cutting-edge instruction from piano industry masters to anyone on the globe with an internet connection.
𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐔𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐆𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓❗❗

Browse more masterclasses and lectures from Piano Tuning Pros here: https://www.pianotechniciansmasterclass.com/
Piano Tech Radio Hour is brought to you by Piano Technicians Master. We provide cutting-edge piano technology instruction from piano industry masters without leaving your home, featuring monthly subscriptions, conventions, single live streaming, and recorded masterclasses. Learn advanced skills:
How to tune pianos.How to repair pianos.How to rebuild pianos.How to tune concert pianos for the finest performers in the world.
Instagram -Piano Technicians Masterclass (@pianotechmasterclass) 
FB - Piano Technicians Masterclasses | Facebook
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