Hammer Thanks

[Avery Todd]

Hi Dave,

> How about "starting" a thread?

   Well, I see you took my advice. :-) Good question.
   My experience here is turning into roughly the same as some of the
others. Our Recital Hall is used for almost all student recitals with 2-4
hrs. practice time allowed, when available. Plus, all the piano teachers
hold a weekly studio class for 2 hrs.
   Both pianos (New York and Hamburg) have Renner hammers and they are
holding up well. Both sets are about 3 yrs. old.
   Since we have a new concert hall (faculty, guest artists, etc.
concerts), I've been able to voice the American down to that small hall.
Now the wear
is much more evenly spread between the two instruments with the majority
of pianists leaning toward the New York D.

Avery

>Thanks list for your comments and input.  My initial thought was that every
>2 years would be the norm taking into consideration the amount of play.
>Fortunately the hammers are still resilient and produce a beautiful tonal
>quality.  The faculty loves what the instrument has become since new
>hammers and high-end voicing/regulating, etc.  I've suggested less play for
>this particular piano, but I believe in vain.  We have a twin sister "D" in
>our major concert hall that gets played maybe 1/4 the time.  This piano
>still has the factory hammers and aren't really worn (manufactured 1982).
>I've been preparing them (their budget planning) for keybushing (last time
>I installed highest quality leather) and shanks/hammers.  I'll probably do
>this next summer.  I'm also pitching for new backchecks as well.  Balance
>rail holes still in great shape but will suggest that in a couple more
>years as well.  Thanks again...it's nice to be in the presence of
>professionals.
>
>Dave Swartz, RPT
>dms2000@majesticpiano.com
>Northwestern College, Roseville, MN