SERVICES
While I am a structural rebuilder by trade, my work today consists of home and concert tuning, voicing, regulating and reconditioning of grand piano actions, as well as action rebuilding, including new keysets, with a special emphasis on action balancing and touch-weight modifications.
Tone and touch are inextricably linked, so my ability to evaluate and correct both tonal and mechanical issues provides you with the highest level of performance from your piano if you so choose. Additionally, I specialize in damper and damper action replacement and regulation. Should structural rebuilding be needed, I have a number of collaborators who help realize these larger projects.
Scroll below to view my detailed process
EVALUATION
The first step in our relationship is a thorough and honest evaluation of the present condition of your piano.
There will be many questions asked regarding your piano’s history and your opinions on what you think it needs or lacks. Your opinions are very valuable to me because they will help me find what is important to you. In many ways this is the most important step as nothing can be missed that will affect what course we choose to take. Decisions made now will inform the entire project. An impartial, objective assessment is vital. I have evaluated thousands of pianos so my process is refined, thorough and complete.
CONSULTATION
Now is when you will hear what you need to know to make an informed decision, not necessarily what you would like to hear.
This can be difficult, especially if the piano has sentimental value. I am completely candid with what I find. I am not concerned with who has worked on the piano previously and there is never any condemnation regarding your pianos condition. Everything hinges on your objectives for your music making. A piano used for lessons for one’s student children will have different requirements than one used to prepare for a major competition.
EXECUTION
While working on your project I remain in close communication, sending updates and progress photos as well.
You are always welcome to come see the work. Project lengths will vary depending on scope. I hew to our agreed timeline, but sometimes vendors and parts suppliers schedules don’t dovetail as well. Should things be delayed I always strive to get the project back on schedule. My many contacts and deep relationships in the industry usually short circuit this before it happens.
OTHER NOTES
Agreement
Once we have decided on our course of action, I will generate a bidding document with all the terms spelled out. I require ten percent of the project total upon acceptance, half the balance when work begins at action pick up and the balance upon completion. All balances are subject to Texas State Sales Tax.
Completion
Completing your action reconditioning or rebuilding involves me working in your home or venue, spending from 1-5 full days on site. There is no new fast way to perform this work. I custom adjust and regulate the action to your instrument. It is best if you are present to help me determine what your tastes dictate as we get closer to completion. I will make recommendations but I won’t impose my tastes on my clients. I am happy to provide you with the basic concepts, then we can explore what works best for you, your space and repertoire.