In brief
Terry Harper reflects on his journey, family legacy, and the incredible experiences he has had inside Sydney's iconic landmark.
For 50 years, Terry Harper has been an essential figure at the Sydney Opera House, ensuring that its pianos are finely tuned for performances by renowned musicians. As he retires, Terry reminisces about his lifelong journey in the building his father first began nurturing when it opened in 1973. Since its inception, the Opera House has hosted a myriad of events from extravagant performances to historic gatherings. The majestic venue, which defined Sydney's skyline, has been a canvas for art and culture, including memorable moments such as Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic win at the Mr. Olympia bodybuilding championship.Terry's journey began as a young boy, visiting the then-incomplete structure alongside his father, Ron Harper, a prominent musician and piano tuner. “The sails were up, but it was all very bare,” he recalls. But as the Opera House grew, so did Terry’s passion for the music it housed. After completing a piano tuning course in 1973, Terry joined his father in his craft, fine-tuning the ability to hear the subtlest discrepancies in pitch.Now, 50 years later, Terry reflects on a career spent tuning not just pianos, but also creating a deep connection with the venue and its artists. "It’s a very happy place for me. It’s pretty much been my life," he states. The disciplined nature of his job, often requiring tunes as frequently as three times a day, has contributed to his impeccable skills.While he has had the opportunity to tune pianos in legendary music venues from the Royal Albert Hall to Abbey Road, none has brought him as much joy as the Sydney Opera House. "I think I’ve been doing the work of six people," he jokes, alluding to the potential change as the Opera House seeks a new contractor for piano tuning.With his retirement, Terry expresses mixed emotions about leaving behind the camaraderie and connections he cherished throughout his career. “We like to be in a room by ourselves… but I’ve always had the camaraderie of all the people that work here. I’m going to miss the place.” As he closes this chapter, the legacy of the Harper family at the Sydney Opera House will forever resonate in its sounds.
