This three-day class will offer a hands-on introduction to the care and maintenance of the wood-framed Viennese fortepiano, the early piano most frequently made by modern builders, and what today’s technicians will most likely encounter. Subjects will include how to handle the seemingly delicate parts of a Viennese Prellmechanic without trepidation or damage; how to regulate and repair the action, keyboard, and dampers for best performance; and how to practice tuning an instrument much more lightly strung than today’s piano. Many steps will be familiar, however, a few are unique to a Prellmechanic with no counterpart in the modern piano. 5-octave and 6 1/2-octave fortepianos will be available for the class.
The class will be taught by fortepiano builder R J Regier, Freeport, Maine. For further details contact the North Bennet Street School or R J Regier at 207-865-6687, samrodfp@aol.com.
Prerequisite:Â This class is intended for the piano technician (or fortepiano owner) who wants to develop their skills. If you have questions about your experience, please contact ce@nbss.edu.
