Hammer Replacement

[Jim Coleman, Sr.]

Hi Dave:

I always felt that the key performance piano should be used only for 
Concerts. If that is not possible, then more frequent replacement will 
be needed. If the piano is also used by performance majors for their
regular practice (16 Hours a day) then, you should plan on replacement 
of hammers shanks and flanges every two years. If it has limited use by 
piano instructors, perhaps replacement every 4 or 5 years will be good.

Upper Treble strings will need to be replaced with every second hammer
replacement.

Jim Coleman, Sr.

On Mon, 26 Oct 1998, Dave Swartz, RPT wrote:

> List,
> 
> I'm curious as the longetevity of hammers in your concert/piano major's
> pianos.  Two years ago last August I replaced hammers (Abel) with shanks on
> one of our Steinway D's.  Incredibly, the hammers are extremely worn and I
> feel unacceptable for filing when considering the importance of this
> piano's usage.  The instrument is used for student recitals, faculty
> recitals, and unfortunately...lessons!  
> 
> I would think (there I go again) that a new set of hammers should last
> longer than 2 years.  Do you find in your institutions this to be the norm?
>  Now, I realize that if the piano is used just for concerts, that would be
> a different story.  Comments???  Thanks
> 
> Dave Swartz, RPT
> dms200@majesticpiano.com
> Northwestern College, Roseville, MN
>