Tuning a concert piano with humidity control

Jerry Cohen emailforjc@yahoo.com
Sat, 05 Mar 2005 22:32:49 -0500



If a Dampp-chaser system is installed in a piano that is only used for
concerts, what is the best schedule to observe for unplugging the
Dampp-Chaser, moving the piano on stage, and tuning?

Here is the problem I see. The Dampp-Chaser will maintain the piano at a
fairly constant humidity, especially with a floor length cover over the
piano. But when the piano goes on stage, the lid is raised, and the lights
are on, the humidity as well as the temperature will change. I understand
that the effect of temperature change, especially from the lights striking
the strings is almost immediate, while the plate takes longer to warm up.
The effect from the humidity change is much slower since wood takes longer
to change its moisture content.

As a practical matter, how soon before the concert should the Dampp-Chaser
be disconnected, and the piano moved on stage? And when should it be tuned?

Looking forward to your responses.

Jerry Cohen, RPT
NJ Chapter


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