| The National Piano Foundation was founded on June 28, 1962 as the educational branch of the National Piano Manufacturers Association. The purpose of this dissertation was to document the activities of the National Piano Foundation that have served the piano community including manufacturers, teachers/pedagogues, students, dealers/merchants, publishers, and technicians. Three research questions guided this project: (1) What are the goals or objectives of the National Piano Foundation and how have they changed? (2) What structural or administrative changes have been implemented in this organization in order to continue to meet these objectives? (3) How have the objectives of the National Piano Foundation been reflected in its kinds of activities and achievements?; An historical methodology was employed to conduct this study. The researcher collected primary data by interviewing ten participants who were chosen because of their affiliation with and expertise in the organization. Three of the participants served in administrative capacities of the National Piano Manufacturers Association or the National Piano Foundation as president, educational director, or chairman of the board. Five participants served as project directors. Also, the current executive director and project manager of the National Piano Foundation were interviewed. In order to support and verify information given by each individual, a study of secondary sources was necessary. These secondary sources included meeting minutes, letters, memos, flyers, brochures, curriculum outlines, reports, job descriptions, and newsletters. To organize the data, a separate chapter was completed for the three administrative tenures of Dr. Robert Pace, Dr. Robert Steinbauer, and Dr. Don W. Dillon/Ms. Brenda Dillon that mark the history of the organization. Within each of those chapters, specific categories or topics were discussed. These categories included Administrative Structures, Activities for Teachers, Activities for Students, Activities for Dealers, Publications, and Other Major Projects or Research. Extensive appendices were also prepared to support the contents of each chapter.; The goal of the National Piano Foundation has and continues to be to offer activities, programs, and resources that benefit every member of the piano community. They have successfully modified and adapted the administrative structure of the organization to reflect trends or fluctuations in the industry. Many of the activities and programs have been successfully implemented to reflect the goals and ideals of the organization. The National Piano Foundation serves as a vital liaison between the manufacturing, retail, and publishing industries and piano teachers, pedagogues, researchers, and students. |
