It is amazing to me how the condition of the piano at a performance can be so inferior sometimes. In spite of my performance agreement stating, "all keys must play, all pedals must work, well-tuned condition, sturdy bench, clean", etc, I continually arrive to find dismal situations. I know that the ideal thing would be to go to the venue ahead of time, but in a tour situation, that is not possible. Any suggestions?

BTW, I'm new here, so hi!

Welcome to the forums, Sherry. I'm Ralph and understand your interest in this subject. When I assisted at the programs my university sponsored we took extra pains to make sure the staging area was the best we could--lighting, heat/cool, greeting, seating, etc. For the performers I, or someone, would drive to the airport in Savannah and pick them up, deliver them to the motel/hotel, see that an eating place was available or take them to dinner,and, as some performers like to eat after, some volunteers would have a dinner for them at their home.

Point: We tried to make them comfortable.

We secured music stands if necessary,practice time, etc., and if there were two performances back to back a practice facility for the one(s) waiting. For pianists in particular we rented a 9' Steinway, had it tuned before the concert, a tuner on hand to make sure the artist was ok with the tuning and, on most occasions had the tuner stay through the first half in case something needed attention.

The Beaux Arts Trio was engaged and I picked them up, delivered them to the hall, had preferred libations in the 'green room' and we made efforts to see that everything was satisfactory. They commented that it was unusual for them to get that kind of treatment.

After I quit the artist committee the person who took over didn't have the piano tuned, didn't provide anything for the performers and got BAD reviews.

It makes a big difference for the artists whether they are treated nicely or left to their own devices by the sponsors of a program.

I always try to go try out the piano before a gig. If it isn't up to par, I take my electric piano.

I was pleasantly surprised when trying an old Steinway grand recently. I had tried it a few years ago, and it had failed the test (out of tune, with some key tops missing) so I did some gigs with my Yamaha. But they've fixed it up, and it was tuned just a few weeks ago.

You should look up "Brown M and Ms" to see how one group dealt with these things.

I always feel I should treat the artists as if they were volunteering their services, even if they are getting paid. I have been fortunate to work with good people all my career.