Tuning instability question

[Dave Swartz]

At 04:53 PM 2/5/96 -0700, you wrote:
>     We're having some trouble with our Hamburg Steinway D going out of
>tune during performances(it seems to be getting worse) and wonder if the
>extreme low humidity in the hall could be a factor. The entire building is
>without humidity, so the piano has been at 25% RH for a month now. It DOES
>jump up to 33%, but it pretty much stays at 20-25%. The question is:
>
> Will constant low humidity cause tuning instability? I'd appreciate
>answers from those who have had experience with these conditions.
>Thanks...
>
>John Minor

John,

Yes.  I too experience the same symptoms on a "D" (NY) at the same R.H.% I
don't have all the difinitive answers as to why this is but do attribute it
to be consistent low humidity levels.  The plate bolts needed tightening,
(even though they have been done 3 times this season) which made a positive
difference.  The tuning process is not as smooth either at that RH as in the
summer months when RH is around 55-60.  Less bearing, crown, pinblock
bedding are some of the few factors discovered at the lower RH...(I'm
refferring to the "D" here, although it be true for most pianos).  Other
pianos on campus have supported my belief of unstable tunings=low humidity
levels...We have a "B" that is a pain 8 months of the year at that humidity
level.  Get humidity (constant that is) into the instrument and it's a
different horse.  Has a DC installed (to the gills).

Shortly: other examples, same symptoms.  M&H "A", Steinway "B", Steinway
"A", Story & Clark 5'3" (Samick), twin sister of "D" in different location
on campus.

Hope this helps

Dave Swartz, RPT
NWC
dms2000@pioneerplanet.infi.net