Hammer technique for 7' grands

[Nichols]

Sherry,
     What size tip do you use? What is the angle of the head? Roughly what 
position (o'clock) do you use for the tuning lever?
     These factors can make a difference. "Popping" strings are common with 
some models, like the Baldwin, and can be reduced by using a number three 
tip. I find the twenty degree head to be helpful, also, especially near 
struts. The larger S&S grands I service seem to respond better to a pull 
from the 2 to 3 o'clock position (facing the pins), and the Yomamas seem to 
like a push, from the 8 to 11 o'clock. (for the Baldwins, anywhere you can 
fit the 3 foot cheater bar, no? <G>)Could be just me, of course.
    Sounds like you did have more than your share for one day, though. 
Life's entertainments.

Peace,
Guy



At 09:33 AM 6/1/2004 -0400, you wrote:
>Hi,
>     I recently had 4 different jobs tuning 6'11" to 7' grands (Steinway,
>Yamaha and Baldwin).  With each of the pianos I had the same problem.  I
>would use short, sharp "jerks" on the tuning hammer to bring a string to
>pitch.  I would feel the pin move (not twist but actually move) but the
>pitch wouldn't change.  Then suddenly on the 5th or 6th stroke the pitch
>would jump quite a bit above where I wanted it to be.  When I tried to lower
>it to the correct pitch the would stay put and then leap back down below
>where I wanted it.  Eventually I was able to get it to the right spot but it
>was all very frustrating.  Is there a special (or different) hammer
>technique that one should use with the larger grands or did I just manage to
>get 4 difficult pianos?
>         Thanks for the help.      Sherry
>
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