An exam scoring program is already included in each of the four most popular ETDs: Reyburn CyberTuner (RCT), Sanderson Accu-Tuner (SAT), TuneLab, and Verituner.Ī mock exam differs from an RPT tuning exam in some very important ways. A mock exam yields results similar to a real RPT tuning exam because it uses an ETDs RPT tuning exam scoring program, the very same exam scoring program that examiners use to score a real RPT tun. Can we harness the power of these ubiquitous ETDs to help solve the very problem ETDs have created?Ī mock exam is an unofficial clone of the RPT tuning exam that mimics its procedures: detune a piano, tune it au-rally, then measure and score it. Many smart people in PTG have been work-ing long and hard on this problem, but more needs to be done. Sixth (15%) was, The education and training to pass the exams is not available on a local level.Ĭlearly, there are lots of Associates who use ETDs and who need help get-ting to, and through, Part 1 of the RPT tuning exam, the aural portion. Third (25%) was, I only tune with an ETD. The 2012 Member Survey also asked Associates, What best describes your reasons for not becoming an RPT? The #1 reason (39%) was, I do not feel prepared or am intimidated by the exam process. Whether you think this is a good or bad thing, theres no arguing with the facts: About two thirds of us use an ETD to tune pianos. (In the 2006 survey, 59% and 38%.) These numbers are almost certainly higher for newer members and Associates. According to the 2012 PTG Survey, 62% of us use an ETD always or most of the time and 42% use an ETD as a primary tool. Before the 1980s, almost every piano tuner tuned com-pletely aurally, armed only with a tuning fork, a knowledge of theory and craft, and a keen pair of ears. Just as computers have changed our world, their digital off-spring, electronic tuning devices (ETDs), have revolutionized piano tuning as a craft and profession. Piano tuning has undergone a profound transformation in the past few decades.