Stockport is now one of the few towns in the UK - indeed in Europe - which can boast the presence of a certified Pianoforte Tuners' Association (PTA) member.

Pete Sadler-Eastwood of Saddlewood Pianos - based in Reddish - picked up this prestigious membership after passing a series of rigorous exams first-time.

Off the back of this, he is continuing his piano tuning and repair business in earnest, now offering a new range of services.

Pete describes his new accreditation as offering 'peace of mind'.

"It's reassuring for me and for customers that I meet the high standards set by the association", he said.

"Because Piano Tuning is not a regulated industry, certification isn't required to provide these services. Therefore, a fully accredited technician gives customers the confidence that they are receiving the best quality service."

Pete's meticulous approach to craftmanship has earned him a place in the prestigious PTA association (Image - Alasdair Perry)

Pete explains that his aim is to be a cut above the competition, whilst also keeping prices affordable for his customers. "I passionately believe that having a quality working piano is something which should be accessible to everyone, beginners and professionals alike"

The PTA itself describes its members as "fully accredited professional piano technicians who have the highest level of technical expertise."

It is certainly true that the PTA accredits only top technicians; there are only a select number across the country, and it is testament to Pete's talent that he achieved scores in the high 85-95% region in each of his three exams: tuning by ear, fixing breakages, and addressing mechanical issues.

Yet although Pete's outlook may have changed to some extent with his new accreditation, the approach to business remains the same. His work still involves a range of tasks - everything from the restoration of family heirlooms and total instrument overhauls to minor improvements.

Pete has refurbished pianos of all shapes and sizes - from 19th century artefacts to modern Yamahas (Image - Alasdair Perry)

Pete describes a recent refurbishment of a piano from 1880, for example. "It was incredibly old and in desperate need of an overhaul. After a visit to the workshop it is now back to working order and once again being enjoyed by its owners", he said.

"I like the idea of keeping something alive, rather than it being scrapped."

Not all work is so antiquated, however.

Pete has just launched a new 'revive' service, aimed at giving pianos of any shape and size a new lease of life. This service is aimed particularly at people who are looking to get back into using their piano, but are put off by its abrasive sound or its shabby state.

For £85, Pete buffs the brasswork and keys; cleans the piano inside and out; and eradicates squeaks and clunks, giving the piano a much needed facelift.

He describes it as a 'spruce up'. "It's popular, because it doesn't cost the earth, and it makes a big difference, especially if you want to get back into playing", he says.

Pete's work takes him across the North West to a variety of different locations, via a strong and wide network of recommendations. From a quick once-over on a household piano, to thorough overhauls of school pianos for student lessons, no job is too big, no instrument too battered.

For more on Pete's process and philosophy with regards to pianos and their repair, read our 'Up Close' piece HERE.

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