Hammer re-facing and blow distance

[annie at allthingspiano.com]

I know what you mean, Terry, as I go through that argument with myself,
too.  BUT... these pianos aren't fine instruments to begin with -- and
these piano owners are usually pretty resistant to the idea that they need
to maintain 'em.  (I use lots of automotive analogies, as they seem to
"get" that, especially the school administrators.)

The way I see it, if I can get the piano playing better for a modest
investment, then somebody's more likely to play that piano... and maybe
even enjoy it.  And then they might be more receptive to the idea of
actually and really making it play "right".

Maybe I need an attitude readjustment, myself, and maybe I'm selling the
pianos and myself short -- don't know -- but that's my current thinking.

Dunno.  I'm just so glad to be in an area where folks actually value their
pianos enough to let me do anything to 'em.  Where I was, most people
couldn't have cared much less.

Annie G.

> You're probably correct that the steps above will improve the
> long-neglected
> piano, but I have to admit that I have a hard time getting around doing
> those procedures without leveling key and setting dip (and as is so often
> needed, replacing felt under the keys - oh, and how 'bout them key
> bushings....).
>
> I guess I find that I try to sell either a complete "action
> reconditioning"
> (full regulation, including keys) or just let the thing wallow in
> disrepair.
> Maybe I need to adjust my attitude?
>
> Terry Farrell
>