The common speculation is that the strap is exclusively for keeping the whippen from falling down after action removal. This belief probably takes root in the fact that, while in the piano, the strap doesn't interact with any parts (except for the Wood/Brooks 90-degree action) and is non-funtional. But how do we know what was going through the mind of the Father of the Bridal Strap (apologies) - maybe it was one of those, "Oh, look what else it does" things. I say this because it seems there could have been another reason for them...like maybe to INTENTIONALLY lift the whippens on a soft pedal execution. In my experimenting it seemed that when the strap lifts the whippen during soft pedal, there is more control over the hammer's force (no lost motion), better repetition, and a wider range of dynamic control. But of course there is the trade off of lost motion vs. a more shallow dip. But since it was most likely designed for pp passages, the trade off is a better deal. I think. Larry Trischetta, Pocono NE Chapter Scranton, PA DGPEAKE@AOL.COM writes: > After several years in the business I have never really thought through the > methods. What the bridal strap is there for. Repetition. Lining the jack > under the hammer butt so it will not lock up the hammer. Other ideas?
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