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All Articles
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Jan 110 min read
Hammer Traveling, Squaring, & Alignment
This article explains hammer traveling, squaring, and aligning separately and proposes a method for each that will help clarify the process.
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Apr 18, 20237 min read
Regulating Grand Damper Timing
This article is covers damper theory, the two points of damper timing regulation, and methods of regulation.
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Jan 17, 20233 min read
Do No Harm: Lubrication Edition
There are many lubricants marketed to the piano technology field. Some are safe and helpful, others should be avoided altogether.
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Nov 14, 20225 min read
Key Height Regulation Methods & Tools
There are many techniques that can be used for setting key height during a regulation. This article details the method I have adopted.
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Oct 27, 20221 min read
Using Shorthand To Track Your Work
Use this shorthand chart for tracking your work through the regulation process.
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Oct 9, 20221 min read
Upright & Grand Action Worksheets
Learn basic parts terminology with these downloadable action worksheets.
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May 14, 20222 min read
Grand Lyre Refresh
Including grand pedal lyre maintenance in your regulation service is a great way to enhance the value of your work.
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Mar 24, 20224 min read
Simplifying the Secrets of Upright Aftertouch
This article is a fresh approach to understanding aftertouch. Try to throw out what you have been taught so far and read like a novice.
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Feb 15, 20222 min read
Three Tool-Free Black Key Dip Methods
Black key dip doesn’t have to be a guessing game, and you don’t even need a gauge!
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Jan 17, 20221 min read
Pedal Repair Kit
Organized kits make fast service calls. Put a pedal kit together so you can quickly fix squeaks, thumps, and rattles: I recommend having...
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Jan 8, 20222 min read
Setting Upright Lost Motion Correctly
Setting upright lost motion isn’t actually about lost motion. It’s about repetition.
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Aug 11, 20214 min read
Spring Things: The Hidden Helpers
Instrument builders have long understood the utility of springs to store and release mechanical energy. Springs are hidden helpers.
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Jul 13, 20212 min read
Easy Upright Damper Timing Regulation
Had a frustrating experience with the upright damper spoon bender? Try this method instead.
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Apr 17, 20211 min read
Adjusting the Practice Pedal
On many uprights, the middle pedal is referred to as the “practice pedal.” This pedal lowers the mute rail felt between the hammers and...
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Feb 26, 20213 min read
Fundamentals: Key Care Part 2
A good regulation starts with a prepared keyframe and keys.
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Feb 12, 20212 min read
Fundamentals: Key Care Part 1
A good regulation starts with a prepared keyframe and keys.
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Sep 21, 20203 min read
Fingers, Eyes, and Feelings
Regardless of your skill level, it's good to develop a sensitive and consistent touch when regulating.
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Aug 24, 20202 min read
How to Set Key Height to Case Parts
Whether you are practicing regulation on an upright model or trying to set key height on an older piano with no manufacturer’s spec, an...
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Jul 28, 20204 min read
Grand Regulation Tools List
Getting your shopping list ready? Read our suggested tool list to get the most bang for your buck.
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Jul 28, 20204 min read
Bedding the Keyframe
By Jim Busby, RPT Editor’s note: Articles sponsored by Piano Technician Tutorials are small segments of the complete books available at...
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