Pianotech

Reading the Kawai publication "Kawai Grand Piano Regulation Manual" January 2013, it clear states that dampers should lift ever so slightly from the back first.  It repeats this instruction a couple time.  Thinking I must have missed something I've checked every other reference source I have on the shelf and all state dampers should lift equally back/front (how I've always set them). 

So the question is one of is Kawai correct, and if so why? 

Thanks,

John

It depends. Lifting the Kawai way allows the pianist (a really good one) pedaling techniques that are somewhat less available to the "standard" viewpoint. Also, when they come down on the strings as a unit they are somewhat quieter (soft landing) than a set that is basically like one solid mass...thump!

Difference in viewpoint. Good to know about if a pianist complains about thumping. You can improve it rather quickly.

Peter Grey Piano Doctor 

Hi Peter,

Thanks for the excellent explanation.  Greatly appreciated.