Larry Lobel wrote:

> I would like to urge Mike Haydon to ignore the advice that he
> defraud piano supply companies by printing phony business cards and
> posing as a piano tech. The piano supply companies, like any other
> wholesale business, try to protect themselves and their customers
> from this type of fraud, and for a registered piano technician to
> make this suggestion can only be the result of his not realizing
> that to do so sabotages both himself and the profession.

My apologies if this was taken as "fraud".  This is a very strong word
and implies criminal activity.  When I entered this profession I had a
real difficulty getting "in" with the supply companies.  The problem is
cyclical in that in order for one learn and become professional one has
to obtain the required tools and supplies first.

The method I described was actually recommended to me by someone else
who went through the same dilemma.  I ultimately had to do this with
all of supply the companies.  Now they receive regular business from
me and I can do quality work.  There is nothing "phony" about it.

The purpose of their policy not to sell to the open market is to
preserve the quality and professional standards of the business.
I believe that anyone subscribing and posing this question to this
list provides evidence of a will to learn the correct way of doing
things with the proper tools and to improve skill.  Sooner or later
you will step up to a higher level of competence.

I'm sure that by making repetitive phone calls and obtaining enough
references they would eventually give you an account number.  The
end result either way is still the same.

The method I described, at least for me, saved a lot of time and
frustration.  As an alternative I might suggest attending some local
PTG chapter meetings and perhaps become an associate member.  This
would likely provide a very helpful referral and you may find someone
willing to assist you in the learning process.

Rob Goodale, RPT
Staff Tech, Northern Arizona University