In a message dated 4/9/01 5:47:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time, beckingt@mb.sympatico.ca writes: << When I opened up the piano today, I immediately noticed that about half of the iron wound bass strings had been replaced with newer copper wound strings. This set off alarm bells in my head. >> Hi Terry I can never figure out why someone replaces ½ of a set of bass strings or hammers or whatever. That should be the alarm bell. You should really check out the rest of the piano for integrity and explain to the customer the risks due to age, what it might really cost to make the piano whole again. Very important to find out her sentiment towards the piano (came from Mom & Dad you know) don't be too harsh. Maybe try some interim steps to see if you can just get it going, you said the action wasn't too bad. You have to decide if YOU want to take on the piano as well. In my experience some of those old Deckers were pretty good, well built instruments. Mark Ritchie RPT
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC