Piano action replacement - Step by step

François-Jérôme VINCENT explains how to design, optimize and replace a grand piano action.

The attendees will be using both software and hardwares developed by FJV Piano Design to replace a grand piano action.

This is a theoritical training, with hands-on session for different operations. A grand piano Pleyel model F (1929) will be used to demonstrate the action replacement.

The class covers the essential knowledge to analyze and improve the grand piano action geometry, and parts weighting.

• Why do you need to replace an action? How long it takes, how much it costs, how to sell it to your customer.

• Action geometry: spread, center pins position, hammer boring chart, strike distance measurements with dedicated tools...

• Replacing a keyboard: How, how much, who...

• Action balancing: Hammers and key weighting. Choose carefully your hammers weight. Calculating leads position easily. Using the Renner Key Measuring Device wisely.

• Comparison between different methods for action balancing.

• Practical method to repare the keys.

• Using special tools to work fast and well (exclusively shown during this course)

• Analysing datas of different actions from different pianos. Discussing how to improve them.

Attendees will get an awarding certificates for class attendance.

You will be able to buy exclusive tools dedicated to action replacement, that are offered only on this specific occasion.

Workshop:

• FJV Piano Design Workshop - Grand'Rue 11, 1261 Le Vaud, Switzerland.

Language:

The course will be held in English. For foreigners needing a translator, we are happy to organize a course fully translated for a group of technicians from a specific country.

Fee:

The registration fee is CHF 1'700.00 for 5 days.

Payment can be made online by bank transfer or credit card, once the registration has been accepted.

These fees do not include accommodation, meals, or travel expenses.

Recommended accommodation:

• Auberge de la Charrue, Place du Village 1, 1261 Le Vaud, Switzerland. About 50 m from the workshop. Car park available nearby.

  We can book the room and the restaurant for you (see online form).

  - single room (one person): CHF 120.00 //

  - double-room (two persons & two beds): CHF 140.00 //

  - triple-room (three persons & three beds): CHF 180.00 //

  Breakfast included

• Coffee and croissants will be offered in the workshop.

To visit nearby:

• La Garenne Animal Park in Le Vaud, Switzerland, is a natural haven dedicated to discovering local and European wildlife, protecting endangered species, and promoting environmental awareness.

Travel:

• Nearest train station is Gare de Gland, then you can take a bus ("Car Postal") every half-hour to Place du battoir Le Vaud (direction St-George line B 830).

• Airport: Geneva Airport - Pick up available for free on request

• Free Parking lot near the workshop: Route des montagnes