Learn to tune softer, less demanding test blows. It also saves ears. You might change your hammer position. I carry four hammers, and though I tune lefty on uprights, and righ-handed on grands, I don't stick with the standard positions. It isn't uncommon for me to use three different hammers on a single piano. I suspect "keeping on" is ignoring body warning signs which could kick you really hard somewhere down the line. It sounds like your body is telling you to find some new ways to approach tuning. On of the locals, a 'two handed tuner' advises if one is a lefty, tune one or two notes on every tuning with right hand. Then slowly increase that, so that over time one can become capable of tuning either way. Dave Porritt tunes in a way that I was sure couldn't be done, and yet I watched him over and over slip unisons in like the gods were doing the work. His technique might be of some help for you as well. Somwhere you are "out of alignment" when you tune. Maybe having someone with twenty years experience watch you for awhile might provide some insights also........ les bartlett houston www.bartlettpianoservice.com -----Original Message----- From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of J W Stein Sent: Sunday, October 08, 2006 9:33 PM To: Pianotech List Subject: Re: A downside to self-employment Interesting topic. Speaking about pain, I wonder if anyone has developed any neck pains over the years. I tune with my right hand, thus using left to strike the keys, and over the years have developed a tightness and pain on the left side of my neck. It's annoying but I keep on. Anyone else have any similar symptons? Any suggestions for relief, besides weekly chiropractic visits? -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.407 / Virus Database: 268.13.1/466 - Release Date: 10/07/2006
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