Cracks and ridges

[Pianocraft@aol.com]

Dear list,

It has come to my attention that some of you may have misinterpreted my
response to David Stanwoods resent post on soundboard cracks and ridges as a
sleight on his integrity. If I have given this impression I am sincerely
sorry. My comments to their possibly being something wrong with the water or
to David’s working habits where meant as good-natured ribbing. David is a
friend and a valued colleague and as most people in this category subject
from time to time to my teasing and jests.

It is clear from David’s post that he was quoting form Steinway’s position on
the subject and was not stating a position he felt strongly for or against.
He offered Steinway’s explanation of ridging as a point of departure for
further discussion. Any criticism I have for describing soundboard ridges as
raised grain should be taken as directed toward the original author (probably
some lawyer).

What I find particularly absurd is the idea that ridges in soundboard
indicate superior wood handling and seasoning. If this is true we should be
seeking pianos with ridges for our clients to buy and the more ridges the
better! Let’s keep the ridges in the Ruffles.


John Hartman