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Restoration
Services
"At Aldrich Pianos, an analytical approach and an unwavering focus on
craftsmanship provide the framework for everything we do. Time-honored
methods are supported by the latest technology. This approach brings
new life to some of the finest expressions of the piano builder's art."
Full
restoration begins with complete disassembly of the piano to repair
structural components. Whenever feasible, the original soundboard
is repaired and refinished. In cases of severe damage or deterioration,
the old soundboard is removed and a new one is custom made and
fitted to the piano.
Bridge
caps are replaced with new hard rock maple. Every piano
gets a new hard maple pinblock to ensure reliable tuning and a long
life. We never resort to shortcut repairs such as plugging old,
worn pinblocks.
We
carefully lay out the bridge pin locations on restored bridges for the utmost
accuracy, rather than simply transfer the layout from patterns
taken from the old bridge. This all-too-common procedure often
perpetuates original mistakes and can also introduce new errors.
Agraffes
(string guides) are removed and polished, or replaced, to ensure a solid,
smooth string termination. Other shops simply paint over them.
The
plate is cleaned, sanded, re-bronzed and sealed with a clear coat.
The original plate lettering is applied. New strings and tuning pins
are installed. All action parts are repaired or replaced.
The
keys are fitted with new keytops and bushings, and key pins are
replaced. All keyframe cloth is replaced. The pedals and trapwork
are repaired, and every piano gets a new damper guide rail to
ensure accurate alignment and quiet operation.
Finally,
every piano undergoes a thorough voicing and regulating procedure
to bring out the full potential of touch and tone.
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