President, of the Association of Blind Piano Tuners

Richard Foster is one of Britain’s most respected piano tuner-technicians and a long-standing advocate for the profession of blind and visually impaired piano tuners. Widely recognised for his technical expertise, dedication to high professional standards and commitment to training, he has devoted much of his career to preserving the craft of piano tuning while promoting opportunities for visually impaired people within the music industry.

Foster began his professional training in piano tuning in 1968 after successfully passing aptitude assessments for the specialist course. Following three years of intensive study and practical experience, he qualified in 1970 before remaining in training for a further period to broaden his experience working on a wide variety of instruments. Over more than five decades, he has developed an outstanding reputation for meticulous workmanship, tuning and repairing pianos for private owners, schools, churches and professional musicians alike. (thepianoshopkent.co.uk)

Throughout his career, Foster has challenged the common misconception that blind people possess an innate advantage in piano tuning. Instead, he has consistently argued that excellence comes through rigorous training, experience, dedication and a commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards. His views have helped reshape public understanding of the profession while highlighting the skill and craftsmanship required of every piano technician. (thepianoshopkent.co.uk)

As Chairman, and subsequently President, of the Association of Blind Piano Tuners, Foster has played a leading role in supporting fellow professionals, encouraging continuing education and representing the interests of visually impaired piano tuners throughout the United Kingdom. Under his leadership, the Association has continued its mission of promoting excellence in piano tuning while providing training, guidance and advocacy for its members. (Charity Register)

Highly regarded by colleagues and clients alike, Richard Foster remains an influential figure within the British piano trade, combining exceptional technical ability with a lifelong commitment to education, professional integrity and the preservation of one of music’s most specialised crafts.

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