I firmly believe in firm test blows, but I have always doubted the usefulness of hand-held beaters. I have used them, but I feel that I don't really have a sense of how hard I'm hitting the key and that instead of stressing the fingers and hand, I'm stressing the wrist. Since I'm an aural/electronic tuner, I use the tuner to monitor my stability. I find moderate blows work well, especially if one uses pianistic technique to achieve forte blows without punishing the piano or one's anatomy. I also agree with those that advocate good physical conditioning. Good upper body conditioning has helped me considerably in avoiding back and shoulder problems. In addition multiple strikes tell a lot about stability. Four or five, quick, light to moderate test blows will test stability better than one or two hard strikes. And too hard a blow will destabilize the string so that on soft blows the pitch will rise. In any case, (not to belabor the old aural-electronic debate) I've noticed a marked improvement in my stability since using the ETD. Unfortunately, I still have occasional problems with split finger tips (ouch!). Any "tips" on handcreams to avoid dry skin? Richard West University of Nebraska
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC