Hi Scott,
Two ideas off the top of my head. One, how good is his technique? A local over here is quite good at breaking strings, and it's because of his technique. Maybe ask to observe him tuning?
Second, I'm not familiar with that model, but could it be that the scale was designed with too high of tension in that area? If that's the case it may need to be redesigned, but that's another topic entirely.
On a side note, are you asking for ideas out of curiosity, or has the client asked you to figure it out? Personally, I'm a little cautious when working directly for retired technicians, especially if they haven't keep up on training or trends. Just saying to be diplomatic, because a lot of the "old timers" (I prefer the term Forefathers - ok, maybe that's a bit of a stretch, no pun intended) may be a little slow to acknowledge that you're the professional, not just a set of hands to do what theirs can no longer do.
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Benjamin Sanchez
Professional Piano Services
(805)315-8050
www.professional-piano-services.comBenPianoPro@comcast.net------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 09-17-2018 13:51
From: Scott Cole
Subject: Schimmel breaking bass strings
Hi everyone,
Tomorrow I'll be replacing a bass string on a 6'4" Schimmel grand, model SP from 2003-2004.
"Diamond Jubilee Special Anniversary" model. The customer, a retired piano technician, ordered the string, but no longer has tools, which is why I'll install it.
The problem is, this piano has broken about 6 bass strings.
-breakage has been either at the tuning pin, with one breaking between the winding and agraffe.
-breakage has occurred during, or a few hours after tuning. The customer tunes it.
Any ideas about what might be going on? Anyone see this on other Schimmels?
thanks,
Scott
Scott Cole, Registered Piano Technician
Serving Southern Oregon and Northern California
(541)601-9033