In reply to John Tuttle's comments on my prices:
Firstly I have admitted that they are low; this is because I want the
business in order to get wider experience. I am upping my rates on each
quotation that I give as I gain that experience.
Second, it is partly a hobby with me. That's not to say that I do not
take the job seriously -- just that I have another source of income apart
from player restoration. I just want to save players from the scrap
heap.
My workshop overlooks a main railway line -- another of my passions. I
have my hi-fi playing ragtime and Dixieland jazz behind me as I work. My
daughter is downstairs cleaning a piano action. I am happy. At my age
quality of life comes into it!
The quote that I gave was for a simple player, and yes it would include
replacement of all soft goods and tubing but not the hammers. I would
re-profile unless that was impractical, in which case I would charge extra
to replace them.
As I say, I am a beginner. I'll let you know in 12 months time whether
or not I am still in business!
Watching the steam trains go by...
Roger Waring
|