What does it take to master your craft? Eddie Paik firmly believes in the 10,000-hour rule of specialization. As a piano tuner, he relentlessly pursues perfection with every instrument he touches.
“We live in an incredibly diverse area with a blend of cultures and traditions,” Paik shared. “Life here is fast-paced and tech-driven, yet there’s still a deep appreciation for music and the arts. Music is the universal language that unites us all. It has always been a vital cultural element, and I’m grateful to play a role in preserving that tradition.”
Music is central to Paik’s life. He plays both the piano and guitar, while his wife is a trained pianist. His journey from craftsman to artisan began several years ago, sparked by an unexpected gift of old piano tools.
“At the time, I wasn’t focused solely on pianos,” Paik explained. “I was restoring guitars, repairing them, building them, and even crafting drums from scratch. I tried to be a one-stop shop for everything musical.”
One day, while finishing work on a classic guitar for a client, Craig Aycock, Paik delivered the project to much satisfaction. The two parted ways.
“Out of nowhere, Craig contacted me and said, ‘Eddie, my father was a piano technician. He passed away years ago, but I’d like to donate his tools to you,’” Paik recounted. “I was both surprised and deeply honored.”
The donation consisted of two large boxes filled with handmade tools. While working on a piano with a difficult-to-reach area, Paik sifted through the boxes and found the perfect tool for the job. That moment prompted him to learn more about the original owner, Percy Aycock.
“I discovered Percy was somewhat of a legend in this area,” Paik said. “He was the guy who tuned the Steinway piano at the White House. He worked for the Kennedy Center, preparing pianos for performances by famous artists. Even the Steinway factory in New York invited him to lecture and host technical workshops.”
This newfound connection deepened Paik’s appreciation for his craft. It also inspired him to narrow his focus exclusively to pianos. His approach to repairs evolved from simply addressing issues to considering the instrument’s broader context.
“I aim to understand the client’s needs, the piano’s purpose, and the music being played,” Paik explained. “My role is to breathe life back into the piano and unlock its full potential, whether that means basic functionality or making it resonate deeply with the owner.”
This year, Paik’s dedication earned him a spot at the Renner Academy, an exclusive, week-long immersion program for intermediate and advanced technicians seeking to refine their skills. Though he lacked a personal mentor, Paik found inspiration in Percy Aycock’s legacy.
“I think Percy would appreciate that I’ve embraced the tradition of pursuing excellence in this trade,” Paik said. “His tools symbolize a legacy of craftsmanship, and I’m honored to carry that forward.”
Among the tools, one stands out—a simple flathead screwdriver.
“It’s over 100 years old, and you can tell Percy inherited it, too,” Paik said with a smile. “It’s one of the best screwdrivers I’ve ever used. I carry it in my field bag and use it daily. It reminds me of the tradition and passion behind what I do.”
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