MAINTENANCE OF THE PIANO’S ACTION

When you look inside your piano, you’ll discover an intricate system of levers, springs, and hammers connected to the keyboard.The complex system which causes a hammer to strike a string when you press a key is called the piano’s action. This mechanism needs to be responsive to every nuance of the pianist’s touch.

When a piano leaves the factory, each of its parts is adjusted to a tolerance of a few thousands of an inch. This process is called action regulation. Because the wood and felt parts of the action may change their dimensions due to the humidity and wear, the action must be serviced occasionally to maintain its responsive qualities. The three systems involved in regulation are: the action, the trapwork, and the damper system.

SIGNS THAT A PIANO NEEDS REGULATION

If your instrument displays a lack of sensitivity or decreased dynamic ranges, it is a candidate for regulation. If you notice that the keys are not level (some higher or lower than others), that the touch is uneven or that the keys are sticking, the need for regulation is indicated. However, a sluggish action or deep grooves in the hammers indicate the need for restoration or repair.

TAKING CARE OF THE PIANO’S WOOD FINISH

As with any piece of furniture, keeping drinks off finished wood surfaces is a simple to always follow. New piano finishes generally require only occasional cleaning with either a dry or damp cotton cloth. Older piano finishes may benefit from an occasional polishing with a good quality polish.

BRANDS WE WORK WITH

PLACEMENT OF YOUR PIANO

Pianos function best when the environment is as stable as possible. Minor variations are inevitable in all households, but by keeping your piano away from heat sources, you help keep those variations to a minimum.

By placing your piano away from hot air vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, and sunny windows, you let the heat diffuse and dissipate as much as possible. The same holds true for cold and moist air. Watch out for open windows in winter that allow cold air to blow directly into the piano.

To have any of your questions answered, please
e-mail us or call us at (416) 230-5560.

Book Your Appointment

Want to inquire about our piano care service? Then contact us at (416) 230-5560 or fill out the form below. We are open 7 days a week by appointment only.