There is an alternate explanation. The piano is fine. The soloist is an asshole and likes to make people jump through hoops. The conductor does or doesn't re

There is an alternate explanation. The piano is fine. The soloist is an asshole and likes to make people jump through hoops. The conductor does or doesn't realize this, but either way doesn't want to upset the soloist. The piano tuner knows the piano is fine but doesn't mind getting paid so plays along. The author plays along, unwilling to point out them emperor has no clothes.