Piano Technology Certificate Program
New program re-launching in May 2025
Western University is proud to re-launch the only in-person, university-based, full-time certificate program of its kind in North America.
Discover challenging work, independence, strong market demand for your services, and excellent earning potential. Qualified piano technicians fulfill a vital role in a wide variety of cultural industries around the world and are an integral member of any musical community.
Successful graduates of the intensive eight-month program will find their skills as piano technicians and tuners in high demand across the musical landscape, including with prestigious institutions and organizations in Canada and around the world. Some graduates choose employment with established retailers, manufacturers or institutions while others enjoy the freedom and challenge of owning their own business.
Technicians who choose self-employment maintain instruments for performing artists, school boards, universities, schools of music and private homes.
The Piano Technology Certificate program, housed at the Don Wright Faculty of Music at the heart of Western's campus, and offered through Western Continuing Studies, builds upon on the success of the program previously offered from 2000-2015.
Timeline
The eight-month program runs in-person at Western's Don Wright Faculty of Music for two four-month academic terms (summer and fall). Summer term runs from May-August, fall term from September-December.
Successful students spend an average of 60-70 hours per week, which includes lectures, labs and the minimum amount of practice time. The majority of classes occur during mornings and afternoons each weekday, with the possibility of some evening classes.
Course descriptions
This certificate requires students to successfully complete the eight half courses for a total of four non-academic credits. Topics include piano tuning, regulation, repair and intonation. Download course descriptions (PDF)
What employability skills will I have upon completion?
Graduates of this program will have the skills to work in the music industry as piano technicians and tuners helping to repair, tune, and refurbish instruments in addition to supporting performers and pianists. While piano technology is a niche industry, there is a lack of formal training options internationally. There is also a specific need to train high-level concert piano tuner technicians. This type of program can also lead to partnerships with piano manufacturers, piano retailers, universities, music schools, and music teachers – in short, all those involved in the music industry and performing venues internationally. An article from The Guardian provides a good summary of job prospects.
What are the admission requirements?
Applicants to the Piano Technology Program must have graduated from high school (or equivalent). Although many have advanced training in music, it is highly recommended that students have at least Royal Conservatory of Music Rudiments or the equivalent.
Eligibility for the program is based on the recommendation of the Faculty of Music. Applicants will be interviewed by the selection committee and must successfully complete hearing and manual dexterity tests. Applicants will be presented with a few tools and, after a demonstration, be asked to repeat a few basic tasks. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of music theory and the piano keyboard (understanding the rudiments of music theory as notated for and performed on a keyboard instrument). An in-person or video interview will also be utilized for applicants.
Cost
Tuition is $25,000 CDN for domestic and international students. Students will be required to purchase some basic and essential piano tools. Housing is not included, but options on or near campus will be made available to successful applicants who require it.
Endorsements from alumni of the program
“We are pleased to see the Piano Technology Certificate program resuming at Western University. This program provides the essential knowledge-based, skill-building environment required to set a path towards a career as a concert piano technician.”
- Damon Groves, Head Piano Technician, The Royal Conservatory of Music and Tanglewood Music Festival
- Andrew Novosky, Senior Piano Technician, Faculty of Music, University of Toronto
- Brad Selves, Concert Piano Technician, Don Wright Faculty of Music, Western University
How to apply
Applications will be submitted to Western's Continuing Studies (open in January 2025). Complete this form to be notified by email when applications are open, or to request a phone discussion with the Piano Technology Program Coordinator.
Contact us
Don Stephenson
Piano Technology Program Coordinator
pianotech@uwo.ca
