Fortepiano pitch levels

[Dennis Johnson]

Stephen-

Thank you for the comments.  You are correct, of course.  Considering the huge
range of pitch that could be considered "authentic",  my primary concern as
technician is what would be best long term for the instrument.  I think it is safe
to say, as you also implied,  that some of the higher pitches used on those early
pianos were not necesarily the best for that particular instrument, which resulted
in problems.  No doubt these were some of the factors which contributed to the
demand for stronger cases in time.  Granted, a modern builder today probably
should be able to design an early piano which can hold up to 440 long term.   With
such a huge non-standard pitch range, almost anything could pass as "authentic" so
we are left with the builders recommendation and that is fine with me.

thanks again-

Dennis.