[CAUT] performance techniques

Avery Todd atodd@uh.edu
Wed, 09 Mar 2005 09:05:58 -0600


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I got mine (almost identical) from Chris Purdy. What goes around, comes 
around,
I guess. :-)

Avery Todd
University of Houston

At 05:16 PM 3/8/2005, you wrote:
>Hey Alan,
>
>I think I got it from Eric Wolfley. (w/ some revisions)
>
>Jim Busby BYU

Policy Regarding Prepared Piano Use
March 23, 1999

1.  All structural changes to any piano must be approved by and in most 
cases performed by the piano technician. This includes removing the lid or 
other case parts and attaching anything to strings or soundboard to modify 
the sound.

2.  Marking strings.
Small stickers may be used on dampers or agraffes to mark notes. Please 
purchase stickers that are easy to remove such as the small colored dots. 
Care must always be used when touching dampers as they are easily bent. 
Never use masking tape or any other adhesive that may leave a residue. The 
performer is responsible for removing any stickers immediately after any 
performance. There should be nothing applied directly to the strings. This 
includes white-out, tape, stickers, nail polish, etc. In some cases chalk 
may be used to mark steel strings but never the copper wound bass strings.

3.  Striking and plucking strings.
Strings may be struck or plucked with fingers or guitar pick. Other devices 
must always be a material that will not mar or scratch strings. On steel 
strings only materials that are softer than the steel string may be used, 
such as brass or aluminum. Copper wound bass strings must also be struck or 
plucked with a material softer than the copper. Acceptable material include 
wood, plastic, rubber, etc. Never use a steel chisel on piano strings. As 
the piano technician, I will be happy to help any performer select 
materials that will not damage the piano.

In some cases, literature calls for the insertion of screws or mutes 
between piano strings. Again, a material softer than the string must be 
used, such as brass or aluminum.

4.  Extreme volume.
There is a fine line to be drawn between passionate musical expression and 
outright banging on a piano. Please use good judgment when playing above a 
forte. Harsh playing is damaging and will not be tolerated.

5.  Common sense.
Most damage to our pianos can easily be avoided by using good 
judgment.  Please consult with the piano technician or piano faculty before 
using unconventional techniques. Usually an alternative can be found to 
satisfy both the performer and this policy.

-Christopher D. Purdy R.P.T.   School of Music  Ohio University  Athens 
OH
-purdy@oak.cats.ohiou.edu   (740) 593-1656    fax# (740) 593-1429

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