Albert E. Sanderson

Albert E. Sanderson Scientist and Inventor; 80 Carlisle Albert E. Sanderson, III entered Harvard College at the age of 16, where he earned his undergraduate and his master's degree in engineering sciences. He later returned to Harvard University to earn his PhD in applied physics. Upon graduation with his PhD, he was offered a position on the faculty and taught at Harvard from 1965 to 1976. He lectured on applied physics and engineering sciences and served as the director of the Harvard University Electronics Design Center, which created custom electronic instrumentation designs for numerous research projects. First and foremost he leaves his much loved family: his wife Mary (McGettigan), of 59 years, whom he met in second grade in Wayland and married right out of college. He also leaves his four children: David Sanderson and his wife Karin of Concord, Linda Sanderson and her husband William Dwyer of Hadley, Kathy Fox and her husband John of Upton, Paul Sanderson and his wife Wendy of Westford, and eleven grandchildren. An inveterate inventor, Dr. Sanderson's greatest invention is a yet "unrealized" project he was working on with his brother Robert - the Sanderson Engine and Pump. They are hoping their unique Engine/Pump design will eventually replace the traditional crankshaft. Application of their invention is presently being assessed by some of the largest technology companies in the world. Dr. Sanderson has secured more than 16 patents in his lifetime, including eight for this revolutionary engine and pump design. Dr Sanderson was also well known in the piano technician's world. H e created the "Sanderson Accu-Tuner" which was the first electronic piano tuning instrument to become widely accepted among aural tuners. Many years ago Dr. Sanderson tuned for the great Arthur Fiedler, using his new piano tuning invention. Dr. Fiedler was so pleased with the sound of his piano that he provided Dr. Sanderson with a letter of recommendation for his invention. In 1972, with his new tuner, Dr. Sanderson launched the company, Inventronics, Inc., which his son Paul now operates in Tyngsboro. The "Sanderson Accu-Tuner" is now used by piano tuners the world over. Dr. Sanderson's many accomplishments have been highlighted by the Piano Technician's Guild by their bestowing upon him every award they have to offer. Affectionately referring to him as "Doc", in 1993 they elected him to their "Hall of Fame" for contributions to the theory and practice of piano technology and in 1998 he received the PTG's greatest award, the "Golden Hammer Award" for a lifetime of service, teaching theory and practice of piano tuning and scale design. Al Sanderson was a very gifted man with many accomplishments, but his love of family and willingness to share his knowledge with others gained him their respect.