December 2019
A Call for Tips
The Piano Technicians Journal needs tips! What’s a good tip? Simple: anything that helps you do your job better or faster. Common categories include cool tools or tool hacks, jigs, software for phone/tablets, tuning tips or even chemicals or glues. Tips should be concise (generally one or two paragraphs and a couple photos. Send them to Scott Cole, RPT, at TTT@ptg.org .
Holiday Hours and Store Orders
The PTG Home Office will be closed the following dates: 
December 24, 25 & 26, 2019 
January 1, 2020
The PTG Store will be closed from December 31, 2019 through January 6, 2020 for inventory. Please place orders before noon on December 30 if you know that you’ll need anything during this time. The PTG Store will reopen on January 7, 2020.
December 31 Is Deadline for 2020 Dues
Dues invoices for 2020 were e-mailed November 1. Use the  Pay Online  feature at ptg.org to pay your invoice securely and quickly 24/7. If you've already renewed, thank you! It's important to pay your dues before December 31 to ensure that there are no interruptions in your Journal subscription and other member benefits. If you haven't received a copy of your invoice, please contact  sandy@ptg.org  or call 913-432-9975.
Save the Date!
2020 PTG Convention
July 29 - August 1
DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Sea World
Orlando, FL
The classes are set and the planning work is underway as PTG gets ready to head to Orlando in 2020. We're pleased to announce that the PTG member rate for a full convention pass will remain at $499. In addition, a first-time convention attendee can save $300 on a 2020 registration. We'll be sharing more details about those programs and the convention in the upcoming months through E-news, the  Piano Technicians Journal  and on the web through  convention.ptg.org (coming soon) , social media and the PTG websites. Registration opens February 1, 2020.
PTG Spring 2020 Home Office Class Schedule
Great hands-on educational opportunities are just ahead as PTG will be hosting three classes at the Home Office in Kansas City this spring (including a first-time offering).

Voicing: Pragmatic, Intuitive, and Inclusive Tone Building
March 5 - 7, 2020
Presented by Jim Busby, RPT and Vince Mrykalo, RPT
A different approach from most voicing classes. Each technician will have their own piano to work on, and together as a class, all participants will hear the transformation of every one of the pianos; some lecture, much demonstration, and lots of hands-on with one-on-one attention. Only 4 spots left!

NEW!
Polyester & Lacquer Finish Touch Up Academy
March 27 & 28, 2020
Presented by Mike Ello, RPT, author of Master Guide to Piano Finish Touch Up
Lecture and discussion along with plenty of hands-on opportunities. Great for rebuilders, movers and retailers. Registration includes a copy of  Master Guide to Piano Finish Touch Up. Class size limited to 12.

Grand Action Regulation in 37 Steps
April 30 - May 2, 2020
Presented by Kathy Smith, RPT, David Vanderlip, RPT and Ward Guthrie, RPT
Intensive three-day skills-based course. Small group instruction and individual feedback. One piano per registrant. Class size limited to 10.

Visit the Online PTG Academy 24/7 on-demand presentations, videos, and workshops.
PTG Members Get Discounted NAMM Registration
The PTG and the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) are pleased to announce an agreement that will allow all PTG members to attend the 2020 Winter Trade Show January 16 - 19 in Anameim, CA at the discounted price of $25. To register for a badge, you must be a current PTG member. You'll need a digital version of your PTG membership or business card, or other document establishing your professional credentials as a piano technician and PTG member. To register as a PTG member, click this link:

1. Find the blue Registration bar, click on the blue “Get Started" button.
2. Click "NO" when it asks if you are a NAMM member.
3 .Click "NO" when it asks if you qualify for NAMM Membership. 
4. Under Promo Code enter: PTG2020. Fill out all required information in the form. Complete the required information on the rest of page 1 and click next. 
5. Complete the required information on page 2.
6. Establishing Credentials. Once you've uploaded your credentials, hit next and go to page 3 to review your documents. Hit the button to confirm your registration. 
7. Enter Payment information.
  • You'll get an e-mail confirmation of your registration. You'll need that information to get your badge at the show so either print it out or keep it handy on your phone. If you take advantage of this offer, please stop by the PTG Booth and say hello. We'll be on the third floor with other piano exhibitors in Lounge 88.
Deadline Calendar
December 31, 2019 - Awards
December 31, 2019 – Dues
  • Renew your 2020 dues by December 31 to avoid letting your membership lapse. Pay online! It’s quick and easy.
February 1, 2020 - Nominations for PTG Board
April 1, 2020 – PTGF Convention & Exam Scholarships
  • Apply online or download an application and guidelines. Visit foundation/scholarships/convention to learn more. Applications must be received by April 1, 2020 to be eligible.
PTG Going Green
As adopted in 2005, the Council Book of Resolutions states, "Home Office and PTG membership shall be environmentally aware." Over the last year, the HO has been working towards eliminating the printing and mailing of such things as newsletters, supplements, invoices and monthly statements. 2020 dues invoices were sent via email, so please  update your profile online  or contact the HO if we do not have your current contact information.