String Breakage

[FRED W TREMPER]

I service a Yamaha grand, G1-J, at an apostolic church.  It has suffered 
several broken bass strings.  In the past I have replaced strings nos. 
11,13,18,20,21,25,30,31,34,and 35, and there may be more.

Of course, strings break on this piano when the pianist cannot contain 
herself (all of the pianists are female and weigh about 97 lbs.).

I think what happens is that when the dampers are raised and the string 
is at the top of its vibration envelope another hard blow comes along and 
drives the string even higher.  Breakage is the result.  Am I correct?

I have increased the let off to reduce power and I have recommended that 
the sustain pedal be disconnected and showed the minister how to do it.

Any other suggestions?

Fred

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Fred W. Tremper, RPT
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY 40351
f.trempe@morehead-st.edu
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