[pianotech] shorter final tuning time with pitch raises; forearm smash

[David Nereson]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Terry Farrell" <mfarrel2 at tampabay.rr.com>

 > . . . . . . the difference between a piano
> that doesn't need a pitch adjustment prior to tuning, and one 
> that  just had a pitch adjustment done and is ready to tune - 
> they should be  pretty much the same. >>

    You're right; they should be.  But for some reason (for me, 
anyhow,) the final tuning doesn't take as long after a pitch 
raise.  There are exceptions, of course-- any piano with 
exceptionally tight pins, such as brand-new ones, Baldwins; and 
the "razor's-edge tolerance" pianos, and pianos in which the 
strings just don't render easily.

    (Slightly different subject):  Just tuned a Steinway 'B' a 
few hours ago.  It was right at pitch when I arrived.  Still 
took me an hour and 45 min, which is better than the two hours I 
often spend.  Was trying to do an extra-good job since the 
pianist was quite accomplished and was going to use it for a 
recording.  Wanted to sock it in pretty good for him and I used 
fairly heavy test blows but just couldn't bring myself to use 
the forearm smash in the home and with the owners there.  (What 
do you say:   "Bear with me for a few seconds here, folks"?  or 
"This hurts me more than it does the piano."?  or  "Trust me on 
this one." or just "Cover your ears for a sec ..." or "Here's my 
latest number --it's called "Train Wreck."? or what?)
        --David Nereson, RPT