In a message dated 96-02-08 23:31:06 EST, you write: > I have always tuned using hard test blows but it has caused me some >ploblems. > > First It is hard on my ears . In fact my ears use to actually hurt after >a day of tuning especially while tuning the notes in the High treble using >repeated hard blows. > > Second, I found I was much too tense while tuning , finding it hard to >relax while continuously switching back and forth between soft blows and loud >blows. I tended to tense up while stricking hard blows and found myself with >sore tense soulders and neck at the end of the day. > > Third, I find the hard test blows hard on the nerves and I believe they >interfere with listening because I tend to want to not here such a loud sound > It interferes with my concentration. > > Dear Sir, I have found earplugs useful in this situation. Check the archives for previous discussion on this. I have used them for six years and find I tune better now than then. Another point- I try to get the piano as close as I can before pounding it in. IOW, at pitch across the scale with the unisons pulled in. I would rather go across the whole instrument quickly, then come back and retune with stronger blows. I don't find a discrepancy between good hammer technique and hard blows to settle strings, I use both to the best of my ability. I do find the combination of pounding and pitch changing unfruitful. I hope this helps. Dale Probst Registered Piano Technician Ward & Probst, Inc. Piano & Organ Service Wichita Falls, TX
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