bass bridge question

[Les Smith]

Well, Steve, I have to admit that on occasion I've removed all the
bass stings at one time from a piano without lowering the pitch
first and never run into a problem other than the tuning getting
thrown badly out of whack. HOWEVER, I've never done it on a piano
that was 112 years old! Also I'd hate see a subsequent post of yours,
inquiring of the whereabouts of another 1885 Bluthner plate! Sorry
I can't be more helpful

Les Smith
lessmith@buffnet.net

On Tue, 18 Mar 1997, Stephen Birkett wrote:

> I recently completed work on an 1885 Bluethner, which was actually pretty
> modern by comparison with what I would normally work on. The main job to
> be done was restoration of the original Bluethner action...an interesting
> task, since many parts had to be re-fabricated. Anyway that job is
> finished.
>
> I would like a little advice on a problem that has developed with this
> piano, that is essentially a "modern" piano problem...and beyond my
> experience. An unpleasant and short-lived rattle/buzz that has developed
> with mf or louder on three tenor notes. There are also two cracks that run
> right through the bass bridge apron, maybe a mm wide in places...the riser
> and bridge appear to be intact, but the apron is cracked right through. I
> think the cracks are probably the cause of the rattle, but, before tearing
> into removing the bridge and repairing it, I'd like some comments from you
> experienced modern piano guys if this is likely to be correct. I normally
> work with pianos that have no iron, let alone a plate, so I would also
> like to confirm that it is safe to remove all the bass strings at the same
> time, without causing damage to the plate.
>
> Thanks for any advice.
>
> Stephen Birkett
>
> Stephen Birkett Fortepianos
> Authentic Reproductions of 18th and 19th Century Pianos
> 464 Winchester Drive
> Waterloo, Ontario
> Canada N2T 1K5
> tel: 519-885-2228
> email: sbirkett@uoguelph.ca
>
>