| The grand piano - it's the granddaddy of them all. Just | | | | covers the hammers. |
| looking at it evokes images of tuxedos, evening gowns | | | | The action also needs maintenance after normal wear |
| and elegant music. Considering one of these fine | | | | and tear from playing and humidity. Because the action |
| instruments can cost more than a car and as much as | | | | involves thousands of parts, it must be done by a |
| a house, you need to know how to care for and | | | | professional. |
| maintain it so it lasts a lifetime. | | | | 4. Full Service- At a minimum, you should have your |
| Here are some tips, some basic and some intricate, on | | | | grand piano completely serviced twice a year. This |
| making sure your grand piano is in perfect working | | | | involves adjusted the tone, pitch and touch. |
| order for your great-great-great... grandchildren: | | | | 5. Professional Technician- The basic stuff you can do |
| 1. Dust- Something so minute can ruin the functioning of | | | | on your own, but any work involving the internal |
| the keys. Keep the cover closed over them and wipe | | | | working parts, you need to hire a professional to make |
| them down with a damp cloth. Never use harsh | | | | sure it is done correctly. Is your technician licensed? |
| chemicals- warm water and maybe a mild soap | | | | How much experience does he have? A grand piano |
| should be sufficient to remove whatever dust may | | | | is expensive and it must be treated delicately and with |
| have gathered between the keys. To keep the | | | | skill. |
| exterior shiny and clean, wipe it down with a damp | | | | 6. Playing- A grand piano that is frequently played is |
| cloth and a water-based cleaner. | | | | better functioning instrument. It keeps parts from |
| 2. Climate Control- Exposure to humidity affects the | | | | becoming stiff and brittle from inaction. Playing it is the |
| sound quality and throws off the tune of a grand piano. | | | | only way to discover if there are problems with the |
| Do not place your instrument in front of a window, by | | | | piece as well. It lets you know if tuning or other |
| a heater or vent and definitely away from the | | | | services are needed and, by taking care of this, you |
| fireplace. If you live in an excessively dry or humid | | | | can be ready to entertain at a moment's notice. |
| region, you can utilize a humidifier and de-humidifier to | | | | A grand piano is a delicate instrument that is pleasing |
| regulate the room. | | | | to the ears and the eyes. It is also a huge investment |
| 3. Tuning, Voicing Regulation and Action- Tuning | | | | that must be cared for and maintained properly and |
| involves tightening the strings that have weakened and | | | | with professional skilled hands. If you follow the tips |
| loosened as a result of wear and humidity. This should | | | | above, your investment will be around for years to |
| be done several times a year to keep the right tone. | | | | come. You can pass it down to your children along |
| Voicing involves repairing or replacing the felt that | | | | with all the wonderful memories that are attached to it. |