The Newark Piano School is recognised as the UK centre of excellence for
piano tuning, restoration and repair. Designed for those who wish to work
in the piano industry as a tuner and/or technician, it is the only programme of
its kind in the UK making this offer and is valued throughout the world. It
prepares successful learners with the skills needed to join the piano trade for
sustainable employment.
The school is situated in a specialist building close to the main college
campus, giving easy access to the college facilities and the town centre.
The school’s modern, well-appointed facilities boast sixteen individual
tuning rooms containing more than fifty pianos, which are used exclusively for
piano tuning practice. The dedicated workshops are fitted with tailored
workbenches and storage facilities, and are fully health and safety and COSHH
compliant. Large stocks of trade specific tools, materials and parts are
available along with numerous and varied types of upright and grand pianos.
Together this ensures that students gain a wealth of practical experience of all
aspects of piano tuning, restoration and repair.
Learners also benefit from the school’s strong links with the industry: a
regular feature of which is visiting speakers from trade organisations and
suppliers. Graduating students enjoy a range of job opportunities either in
employment by piano firms and shops or on a self-employed basis. The Steinway
Company, amongst others, have recruited directly from the Piano School.
Typical Course Structure
Year 1
Anatomy and Design
Basic Techniques
Workshop Practice
Making
Specialist Tools 1
Historical and Contextual Studies
Year 2
Core modules:
Applied Acoustics
Problem Solving
Making Specialist
Tools 2,
Optional
Modules:
Maintenance
Restoration
Overhaul
Tuning
Case
Finishing
Year 3
Business Practice
Advanced Craft Techniques
Professional Standards
Test
Final Major Project
Preparation and Realisation