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Services
 We are
pleased to offer a full range of services that will help you maintain the
health and quality of your piano for many years.
Tuning
On the
first visit our goal is to tune the piano to standard pitch (A440), do any
minor adjustments and/or regulation if needed. I also evaluate the condition
of your piano for any repair needed. If its been longer than a year since
the piano has been tuned it may require a
pitch
raise.
Reconditioning
Reconditioning is the process of putting a piano back in good
condition by cleaning, repairing, and adjusting for best performance with
parts replacement only where necessary. This is most appropriate for a piano
with only moderate wear or those of medium value with average performance
requirements.
Reconditioning does not involve replacing major components such as the
soundboard, bridges, pinblock, and most action parts. This means the
performance and life-span of an older piano will not be restored to new.
Instead, reconditioning is designed to improve a piano's performance,
keeping in mind both costs and benefits.
Reconditioning may include:
-
Thorough cleaning
-
Repair
or replacement of damaged parts as needed, typically including such jobs
as felt replacement, hammer filing or replacement, and partial
restringing
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Adjustment, regulation, tuning, and voicing to return all parts to
proper function, reduce mechanical noise, and improve tone
 Rebuilding
Complete rebuilding includes the entire pianos structure -- including
soundboard, bridges, pinblock, and strings -- as well as the action,
keyboard, and case refinishing. Partial rebuilding includes only one or two
of these areas, for example rebuilding of the action and structure, but not
case refinishing.
Rebuilding restores the piano to original condition or better. Such
comprehensive work is usually most practical for high-quality instruments
here maximum performance and longevity are required.
Complete rebuilding typically includes:
- Complete disassembly of the instrument.
- Repair or replacement of soundboard, bridges, and pinblock, as well as
repair of any structural damage to the case.
- Replacement of all strings and tuning pins.
- Thorough restoration of action and damper system, including replacement
of hammers, many action parts, springs, and most felt.
- Rebuilding of the pedal and trapwork system, including replacement of
all worn felt, leather, and metal parts.
- Refinishing of case and plate, polishing or replating of all hardware,
and replacement of all decals, felt trims, and rubber buttons.
- Complete action regulation, tuning, and voicing.
- Multiple tunings to stabilize new strings
Voicing
Every
piano has its own unique sound. One might be described as 'glassy,' another
as 'warm'. One might have a 'full singing' tone, and yet another sounds
'thin.' Although the original design establishes the basic character of your
piano's tone, your technician can modify it to better suit your taste or
restore its original tone if it has deteriorated with age. The process of
modifying a piano's tone is called voicing.
For
more about piano voicing,
Click here for an article at the PTG bulletin.
Appraisals
A written
appraisal includes a complete evaluation of both the musical workings of the
instrument as well as the condition of the case. An estimate for any needed
repairs is given in writing as well as Whole Sale Value, Fair Market Value,
Retail Value, and Replacement Cost.
Estimates for Repairs
An estimate
for repairs includes a complete evaluation of both the musical working of the
instrument as well as the condition of the case. An estimate for repairs is
given in writing, often with several cost options. A written appraisal of value
both before and after repairs is provided as well. The fee is credited towards
the cost of repairs.
Climate
Control
We also
install climate control systems which, when properly installed, are proven
to greatly enhance tuning stability and can prevent costly repairs caused by
large changes in humidity.
Learn more about Humidity Control
Learn more about the
Piano Life Saver System form Dampp-Chaser
PianoDisc Player Piano Systems
I am a certified installer and
service tech for the PianoDisc Player Piano System, which can be
installed in any piano. You now can enjoy having your piano played by some
of the best pianists in the world, with over 4000 songs. Many other features
can be added to your piano. Visit
www.pianodisc.com to learn more about the most advanced player system
available.
String Covers
Series A/B
Color options
Stitch patterns
Series D
Color options
Stitch patterns
Top 3 rows: Greek Key
Bottom 3 rows: Feather Stitch
Historical Pianos & Harpsichords
Im
one of the few — if not the only — technician in the Bay Area that will tune,
repair, recondition and rebuild Historical pianos from the early 1800s such
as:
- Birdcage uprights
- Square Grands
- Viennese Grands
I also work with
harpsichords as well.
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