Hello, my name is Steve Hicks, Certified Piano Technician and Owner of Crown Piano Service (formerly Wesco Piano Service).
Charles Wesco started tuning pianos at the age of 12 when his grandfather, the founder of Walter Piano Factory, gave him his first tuning lever. He enjoyed tuning and started Wesco Piano Service, but shared his story and passion for the ministry with clients for over 30 years.
In 2014 my life was at a turning point after 25 years in corporate sales and logistics. As a close family friend, Charles helped change the direction of my career by introducing me to the world of piano technology. Piano tuning is not for everyone, but with Charles’ patient, intense and full time mentorship, I fell in love with the complexity of the piano right away.
Charles welcomed me as a tuning technician in servicing pianos for the South Bend Symphony, the Elkhart Symphony, public and private schools, ISSMA, churches, senior centers and private customers. The piano has inspired generations of musicians to create beautiful works of art, and it became my passion to ensure these instruments continue to inspire. I was honored when Charles offered me ownership of Wesco Piano Service as he wanted to pursue ministry work.
In October of 2018, Charles, his wife, Stephanie and their 8 children moved to Cameroon, Africa to live as missionaries. Tragically, after only 12 days in Cameroon, Charles was killed by an unknown gunman. Stephanie and her children returned to the States and they are involved in a ministry to those suffering from PTSD.
After several years of careful contemplation, we have chosen to change our DBA name from Wesco Piano Service to Crown Piano Service for 2 reasons:
1. To honor Charles’ life as the Bible says: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the CROWN of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” -James 1:12
2. The soundboard of the piano appears to be flat, however a newer and healthier soundboard should have plenty of CROWN, or a slight dome, that curves up towards the strings. Having CROWN in the soundboard improves the tone, projection and sustain of the piano.
The truth is, I love my career, my clients, and meeting new faces; but more than all of that I love helping you discover the full potential your piano has to offer. You may be surprised at how good your piano can sound and how much more enjoyable it is to play after a fine professional tuning service.
Give us a call to learn more. With everything it’s worth to you, your piano needs consistent care to maintain its value. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you take the best care of the piano you love.
Your Piano Technician,
Steve Hicks, Owner
Crown Piano Service
(269) 240-0932
CrownPianoService.com