In yesterday's MMD, Julian Dyer suggested:

> How about producing a checklist of restoration points together with
> a page or so of supporting information to make its aims clear?  Put
> it on the web site, and owners could use it to determine with their
> rebuilder which tasks are to be done, and use it afterwards to
> confirm that the work has indeed been done.

My book "Player Piano Servicing and Rebuilding" includes such a list
on pp. 207-210, with approx. 40 major headings, and with approx. 200
subheadings for piano work and nearly 100 for the player action.

This list is by no means complete, but it at least presents the piano
owner with suggestions for what might be required.

Too many player piano "technicians" only tell a customer that they will
"restore" or "completely restore" an instrument without giving any
details.  When the player piano owner requires technicians who are
bidding on a job to use the checklist, the owner should have a better
understanding of the difference between a $600 repair job and a $6,000
restoration.

Of course, just because a technician says he or she will make certain
repairs doesn't mean those repairs will be done correctly, but at least
the form offers some insight into each technician's intent.

My form falls under the book's copyright, but I'm happy for any reader
to customize the form for his or her own private use.  I know of one
conscientious rebuilder who adapted it to his billing form.  It helps
him to make more accurate cost estimates, as well as enabling the
customer to more fairly compare his estimate with others.

Art Reblitz