Elizabeth Ackerman, M.Mus. in Piano Performance
Certified: National Guild of Piano Teachers
Member: MTNA, NFMC
First Place: 2007, 2010 WSMTA Student Composition Contest
“When I found out about Clark Foerster and his impressive knowledge of pianos and his experience I contacted him because my lovely new Bosendorfer had been damaged by a technician who did unnecessary voicing on it, thereby altering the beautiful tone.
Clark worked extensively on my 6’1″ grand to regain its sweet sound for which Bosendorfer is famous. Fortunately for me, he had just returned from several weeks in Austria at the Bosendorfer factory learning about the construction of the instrument.
One very special thing about Clark is his great passion for pianos and their care. He explains anything you ask and his standards are the highest.
I have lived in the Portland area since 1969 and I think Clark is the finest technician we have ever had.”
Craig E. Jones
Reed Institute
Multnomah University
Transformational Voice Institute
“Clark Foerster is by far the best piano technician I’ve ever encountered.
The upper register of my grand piano now sounds clear. I appreciated the options that were available.
My piano is back to life.
I specifically was impressed on Clark’s ability to regulate, voice, and tune the other problem areas.
I highly recommend Clark’s services. He is an expert.”
Todd Ferris
Vancouver, WA
“My 4 year old Estonia 190 Grand is a great piano. I had my technician service it regularly and I was happy with the piano. When my normal technician was unavailable I got a referral for Clark Foerster.
I asked Clark to provide an evaluation of the piano. He talked with me and listened to me play so he understood what I wanted, my style of play, and my budget. He then recommended some regulation and voicing work and provided a quote.
When the work was completed I was very impressed. You just don’t know how much better your piano can be until somebody of Clark’s skills works his magic.
And even though the work took a bit longer than anticipated the original quote was honored.
I also appreciated his willingness to explain what he was doing and why he was doing it.”
Dr. Kenn Wilson
Bosendorfer Educational Artist
Professor Emeritus of Music History and Keyboard Studies, George Fox Univeristy
“I have known and worked with Clark for four years. In this short time Clark has worked with the entire fleet of pianos at the University (our fleet – about 20 pianos – includes major manufacturers such as Bosendorfer (Imperial and 7-foot), Yamaha, Kawai, and Schimmel).
He has done much more than tuning – he has regulated actions, voiced the pianos, and replaced worn parts including bushings and hammers.
When I first met and spoke with Clark several years ago, I remember he said that the maintenance of a piano must go beyond basic tunings – and include regulation and voicing work as well – all three areas work in tandem with each other and affect each other.
I continue to appreciate his thoroughness, his attention to detail and his great care with each instrument he works on.
He is truly a master at his craft!
I recommend him to friends and colleagues without reservation.”
