[pianotech] String Breakage

[Michael Magness]

On Tue, Mar 2, 2010 at 11:56 AM, Matthew Todd <toddpianoworks at att.net>wrote:

>   Yes, the break occurred on the string located right above a plate screw.
> It's interesting how you guys are nailing this on the head.  I appreciate
> the help!  More for me to explain to the customer than anything.
>  ***TODD PIANO WORKS*
> Matthew Todd, Piano Technician
> (979) 248-9578
> http://www.toddpianoworks.com
>
>
> --- On *Tue, 3/2/10, paul bruesch <paul at bruesch.net>* wrote:
>
>
> From: paul bruesch <paul at bruesch.net>
>
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] String Breakage
> To: toddpianoworks at att.net, pianotech at ptg.org
> Date: Tuesday, March 2, 2010, 3:53 PM
>
>
> Is there a plate screw right above it? Is it a very short distance from
> termination to pin? Like this picture?
>
> If so, it's most likely the abrupt angle changes. I've also had a similar
> break in a very new YC console.
>
> Any ideas out there for avoiding breakage on strings like this?
>
> Paul Bruesch
> Stillwater, MN
>
> On Tue, Mar 2, 2010 at 9:34 AM, <toddpianoworks at att.net<http://us.mc838.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=toddpianoworks@att.net>
> > wrote:
>
>> List,
>>
>> I was tuning a Yamaha P22 this morning, when a monochord string broke
>> while I was tuning it.
>>
>> I use CyberTuner, and the note was almost in tune, just a tiny bit flat,
>> and as I turned the pin only one notch with my hammer to bring the note
>> slightly above pitch so I could settle it back to pitch, the string snapped.
>>
>> Is there any rhyme or reason why a string breakage such as this would
>> occur?
>>
>> Matthew
>> Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
>>
>>
>

Hi Todd,

There is no need to explain or find reasons for a string breaking to a
customer, strings occasionaly break while tuning, leave it at that.
I have been tuning for 40+ years and I have never broken a customer's
string, I have had many break while I was tuning but I never broke any of
them!!!
If the pianos are unstable in the rooms they are in and have no airflow as
you say, other than doors being left open, perhaps more frequent tuning
would be in order and placement of the pianos away from the draft of the
doors?
It is your job as the professional to make suggestions to enhance the
customer's enjoyment of their instrument.

Good job having Mapes number with you to order the string on the spot!

Mike
-- 

It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without
accepting it.

   Aristotle (384 BC - 322 BC)

Michael Magness
Magness Piano Service
608-786-4404
www.IFixPianos.com
email mike at ifixpianos.com
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