at the
present, or that have ever been used extensively. His experience has
proved that all but one is hampered with uncertainty, difficulty of
execution or imperfection in some respect.

A system which will positively insure the strictest uniformity of
difference in pitch of any given interval in all the keys, and that
makes use of the fewest intervals in tuning and the easiest
ones--those in which a discrepancy is most readily perceived by the
ear, is the best system to adopt and follow. Such a system is the one
followed by the author for years with the most satisfying results. He
does not claim any high honor by this statement, but does claim that,
while his system differs but slightly from some of the others, it is
more certain to produce the best results, is the simplest to
understand, is the easiest to follow, and, consequently, is the best.

To become a piano tuner of the highest skill, many things are
necessary; but what may be lacking at the outset may be acquired by
study and practice. More depends upon the ear than upon anything else;
but no person, however talented, has a sufficiently acute perception
to tune perfectly without some culture. Some practice in tuning is
necessary to bring the ear to that acuteness of perception so
indispensable in certain portions of the instrument. It may also be
said that no extraordinary talent for music is absolutely necessary,
since many of the best tuners are not musicians in any sense of the
word. Patience and perseverance, associated with conscientiousness and
an insatiable desire to excel, are among the foremost requirements.
Having these it only remains to gain a thorough knowledge of every
detail of the work; a little practice will bring skill and dexterity.

Finally, we would impress the student with the strenuous importance of
thoroughly mastering the lessons which immediately follow. You should
be inspired with the utmost confidence, both in yourself and in the
possibilities of the profession to those who merit a reputation. And,
while this lesson contains little technical instruction, if by its
study the pupil is impressed with the maxims herein presented, and is
inspired to make earnest effort in his future work, both in acquiring
and in practicing the art of Piano Tuning, the author will feel that
its mission is, by no means, the least significant one in the course.

LESSON VIII.

~THE TEMPERAMENT.~

Some tuners favor the term, "laying the beari