March 2017 Edition
Refinisher Kyle Munson prepping an art case piano lyre for refinishing.
Welcome to the March edition of 'The Keynotes' newsletter. In this month's issue we go in depth into the process of pinblock restoration/replacement. The recently introduced QRS PNOmation3 system is featured and we also have included several photos of work here at the shop and vintage ads from Steinway & Sons. Enjoy!
#25 - Original Piano Piece - VIDEO

Piano Technician and Pianist Philip Balke performs an original piece on Steinway Model B #180473. This vintage Art Case Piano is currently being prepped for delivery to Dubai.

Click to Watch/Listen

Restoration Corner: Replacing or Restoring a Pinblock



The pinblock (sometimes also called a wrestplank) inside of a 'standard' grand piano must withstand approximately 40,000 pounds of tension from the numerous strings. As a pinblock ages under this consistent tension, the holes in which the tuning pins are driven become worn and enlarged. This causes the pins to become loose and compromises the stability of the tuning. The sheets of laminated wood can separate and the glue joints loosen.

The piano won't stay in tune and of course, this affects the quality of the sound and the overall playing experience. Restoring or replacing the pinblock becomes necessary and the piano technicians at Chupp's Piano Service begin a process that is skillful and precise. There are many times when the original pinblock can be reconditioned allowing it to serve well for many more years. However when the highest stability is required, it is best to replace the original pinblock with a new one that is custom crafted for the specific piano.


PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT: QRS PNOmation Player Piano System


P layer pianos saw their popularity skyrocket during the early 20th century. The ability to switch on a device and listen to live music in your own living room was very appealing. Early player pianos utilized a complex system of pumps, bellows and stacks of music rolls. This required the piano to be specially built to accommodate the huge amount of player mechanism parts. These early systems were very complex and not very adjustable beyond some simple volume control. Due to the vast amount of room required within the case, many piano makers had to construct out sized cabinets based around their existing scale designs. Today, new technology has replaced the old paper music rolls and allows for an incredibly detailed musical experience that is much more immersive and QRS Music Technologies has led the way.

The amazing thing about the QRS PNOmation Player Piano System is that it can be installed on virtually ANY piano. We have installed these advanced systems on vintage Steinway, new Kawai and pre-owned Yamaha pianos.


Throwback:

This vintage advertising photograph from Steinway & Sons features one of their 40" Vertical Pianos. From the collection of the late Ed Hendricks, courtesy of Bill Jenkins.



DEAL CORNER: Kawai GM-11


The Kawai GM-11 measures five feet in length and is one of the company's most popular instruments. Due to a consolidation of models, the GM-11 is now considered to be 'last years model.' We currently have one GM-11 still in stock at our showroom that we are offering for sale at a very low price. This brand new instrument includes a ten year factory warranty. If you are interested in purchasing this piano, contact us today.

About Us: Founded in 1975, Chupp's Piano Service, Inc. proudly specializes in the premium restoration of vintage Steinway & Sons and other fine brands of grand pianos.

Our work has become the preferred choice of numerous concert venues, universities and musicians around the world. 

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Chupp's Piano Service, Inc. | | [email protected] | www.chuppspianos.com