Mr. Simon, Finally the source of your rant slides into focus. You are less concerned about the effects of fabric softener on hammers than you are about the lack of scientific analysis on any piano technical procedures. If a procedure is documented enough, can it slowly be accepted as a standard in the piano technical field? In August 1997, I wrote an article for the Journal about bridle strap function that contained a glaring error, that was immediately seized upon by Jim Ellis, RPT in a letter in the following issue. Not content with the letter, Jim conducted an experiment which he published in the December '97 Journal that conclusively proved his point. It was also written in classic scientific experimental format: Introduction, Historical Background, Experimental Data, Conclusion and References. The results were fascinating and a clear example of 'gold medal' writing. My point: If you are greatly agitated by the lack of experimental data regarding fabric softener and hammers, (and by the volume and tone of your posts, I assume this is a matter that weighs upon you), there are at least 5 different types of hammers and an entire laundry aisle of fabric softeners, we eagerly await your publication. Also, why are you concerned with extreme hammer voicing methods on 90 year old pianos that will never have their hammers changed? I assume the owners don't have the means to replace a set of hammers, or these hammers are of such a precious variety that they can never be sullied with undocumented voicing techniques. Eagerly awaiting your response, Rob Kiddell RPT Atonal Piano Service http://www.telusplanet.net/public/atonal/
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