use for middle pedal on old upright

[Gene Nelson]

David,
It appeared original however, I did not have the time to do a thourgho 
investigation. When I can return I will take more time as well as a couple 
of photos.
Gene
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David Boyce" <David at piano.plus.com>
To: "Pianotech List" <pianotech at ptg.org>
Sent: Friday, June 01, 2007 11:18 AM
Subject: use for middle pedal on old upright


> That sounds fascinating, Gene.  Hurry back to the client and take a 
> photograph for us!
>
> I have realised recently that I ought to take more piano photgraphs, both 
> to record oddities, and for art's skae. I love Carl Root's beautiful piano 
> photographs on the ptg website (photography is a subject I have taught in 
> college).
>
> Back to your bells piano though - do you think it came out the factory 
> like that, or was later worked on?  I guess probably the former?
>
> Best wishes,
>
> David.
>
> "Have a client with a Shoninger upright #7048 dated 1885 in excellent 
> condition. Lots of quality work done to it over the years.
> It was a gift to a church - they wanted me to fix the middle pedal as they 
> say it did nothing when depressed.
> On closer inspection I found that the middle pedal when engaged, coupled 
> the action to an additional smaller action mounted under the key bed that 
> spans two 1/2 octaves up from G5.
> This smaller action when engaged is syncronized with the key causing a 
> wooden hammer like part to strike a small bell, simultaneous with the felt 
> hammer on string. The bells are very closely tuned to the wire when at 
> pitch and give a very unique sound - not rinky tink, more like a nicely 
> made chime or cymbal.
> They were amazed at the little treasure that was discovered behind the 
> bottom board and out of sight.
> I have never seen this and am curious if anyone has.
> Any information would be appreciated.
> Gene Nelson"
>
>
>