About David
A Life in Music
From piano to percussion—and beyond.
Although piano was David's first instrument, his musical interests quickly expanded. At age ten, he began private drum lessons and developed a lasting interest in reading, writing, performing, arranging, and composing percussion music.
Over the decades, his percussion experience has included classical percussion ensembles, Scottish-style drumming, and traditional fife-and-drum music. He continues to perform occasionally with the Los Angeles Fifes and Drums.
David has also spent years playing acoustic guitar, exploring styles including blues, jazz, rock, and folk—often accompanying other musicians in informal settings.
A lifetime of music. A thoughtful approach to every piano.
For David Nesser, piano service begins with an understanding of music—not simply the mechanics of an instrument.
David began studying piano at eight years old and has spent decades developing his experience as a musician, performer, arranger, composer, and educator. Today, he brings that musical background together with ongoing piano-technology training to provide tuning, repair, regulation, voicing, and other piano services through Figure 88 Piano Tuning Services LLC.
His approach is centered on helping each instrument achieve the best sound and playability it has to offer, while considering the individual preferences of the person who plays it.
Education & Musical Training
State University of Brockport — New York
Bachelor of Science
David studied Music Theory, Music Composition, and Percussion Studies, including the study and performance of works by composers such as Lou Harrison, John Cage, Henry Cowell, and Carlos Chávez.
Nazareth College — Rochester, New York
K–12 Instrumental Music Education Teaching Certification
His studies included brass, string and woodwind methods, Orff Schulwerk, and orchestral score arranging
Piano Technology
David continues his development as a piano technician through mentorship and study with multiple piano-technology programs and professionals:
International Piano Technicians School (IPTS)
Montreal, Canada
Mentorship with Mark Cerisano — 5+ years
APEX
Nashville, Tennessee
Mentorship with Eric Michael Roberts — since January 2025
Artisan Piano Craft Services
Portland, Oregon
Mentorship with David Hayes — since February 2026
Experience at the Piano
David has tuned and worked on both upright and grand pianos from manufacturers including Story & Clark, Steinway, Kohler & Campbell, Mendelssohn, Cadillac, Wurlitzer, and Knabe, with piano work dating back to 2001.
Today, Figure 88 provides piano services throughout Graham County, Arizona and surrounding areas, with an emphasis on helping each instrument reach its potential in both sound and playability.
References & Recommendations
“I am a member of the Monroe Street Christian Church in Los Angeles. During the renovation of the main sanctuary, which lasted for several weeks, church services were held in a side building. A decades-old upright piano was utilized for the Sunday morning service. David, a skilled technician, repaired the sustain pedal and provided recommendations for future reference and maintenance. David is practical, knowledgeable, and straightforward, offering valuable insights into piano repair and service. He will guide you in determining the necessary actions.”
Brian White Eagle
“Having known David Nesser for almost fifty years, I have always seen him get the job done with anyone regardless of the circumstance. I have seen him as a student teacher, performed with him, and watched him perform. He seems to always find the best solution. Those looking for a piano tuner will find him easy to get along with and exacting with your instrument.”
Irving B. Phillips, Ph.D.
“We’re extremely grateful for David’s work on our family piano. Not only did he restore its vitality by tuning it and repairing a sticky key, but he demonstrated great thoroughness, punctuality, respect, and consideration as well. David also tuned the grand Knabe at our local church. We highly recommend his work!!” Tammy Gonzalez Los Angeles
“I am so glad I asked David Nesser to fix our piano. The pedal was broken and he replaced and also tuned our piano to perfection. Thank you David”
Claudia Calderon
“David tuned our historic church’s Knabe grand piano. He was punctual, friendly, and super knowledgeable! It sounded worlds better afterwards. He was trained by a great mentor. He is a fine musician himself, and has a wonderful ear and professionalism. I highly recommend him!”
Sarah Romero Yetter - 1st Evangelical Free Church of LA