Article about bridge agraffes - function, types

[Calin Tantareanu]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org 
> [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Alan R. Barnard
> Sent: duminică, 19 noiembrie 2006 03:16
> To: pianotech at ptg.org
> Subject: RE: Article about bridge agraffes - function, types
 
> I think it's interesting that the violin family goes for the 
> thinnest bridges possible, consistent with required 
> sturdiness, and a small "footprint" actually touching the 
> soundboard. Piano bridge construction kinda goes the other way. 
> 
> We could increase energy, thus volume AND sustain, by 
> replacing the hammers with rotating wheels of horsehair! 
> Think about it: A 9-foot Steinway & Sons Concert Hurdy-Gurdy!
> 
> Excellent work putting that together Calin.

Thanks. I would never compare violins with pianos, becaause there is a
fundamental difference. While a violin receives a continuous input of energy
through the bow, which lasts as long as the note sustains, the piano
receives energy only onces, through the hammer stroke, and is supposed to
sustain as long as possible after wards.
Pluck a violin string or strike it with a small hammer (in the manner of a
piano), and listen then for sustain. There will be almost none. 
So much for comparing violins and pianos.

If one wants to build a piano like a violin, you have to give up hammers and
start using bows. This has been made in the distant past, with rotating
wheels under the strings. Seen one in a museum, but it's not a piano...

Calin Tantareanu
http://calin.haos.ro
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